PERFORMANCE AND DESIGN
POWER AND STYLE FOR THE F12
PERFORMANCE AND DESIGN
There are cars that enter the hearts of fans, others that move the experts, and then there are those, such as the F12berlinetta, on which everyone agrees. Presented in 2012 at the International Motor Show in Geneva, it was the first of a new generation of Ferrari 12-cylinder cars. It is a car of unparalleled performance, with unique handling, as well as innovative design and aerodynamics. The F12berlinetta is at the furthest frontier of extreme sports cars with a front-mid-engine, in terms of performance, design and aerodynamics.
Designed by the Ferrari Styling Centre in partnership with Pininfarina, the F12 Berlinetta strikes a perfect balance between maximum aerodynamic efficiency and the elegant proportions typical of Ferrari’s front-engined V12 cars. Designers and engineers worked in tandem to sculpt its surfaces to seamlessly incorporate the cars many innovative aerodynamic solutions by subtraction, rather than having it overloaded with different appendages such as fins and spoilers. This intensive work has yielded excellent results, as shown in the record aerodynamic values of the F12 Berlinetta, with its 123 kilos of downforce at 200 km/h, and DC of 0.299. These results were also obtained through the introduction of a highly innovative solution, the Aero Bridge, which –for the first time – uses the bonnet to generate downforce, diverting the flow from the top of the car to the flanks. Aerodynamic efficiency was optimised by the use of the Active Brake Cooling system of guide vanes. Situated on the brake air ducts, they open when the temperature requires it. The F12berlinetta is a coupe with an aggressive and racy line that, despite its compact external dimensions, provides a level of comfort and roominess. The new interior in Frau leather combines fine details of high craftsmanship with the essential elements of sportsmanship. The central position of the driver, a feature common to all Ferraris, has helped to create a human-machine interface, with all controls clustered around the driver for superb ergonomics and a very exciting driving experience. In the F12berlinetta, the beating heart of every Ferrari, the engine, stands out as a jewel of refined technology and engineering. The 65° V12, which won the 2012 International Engine of the Year Awards, delivers unprecedented performance for a naturally-aspirated 12-cylinder engine. It has a maximum power of 740 hp, specific power of 118 hp/l and a weight/power ratio of 2.1 kg/hp.
The F12berlinetta is capable of absolutely blistering performance and outstanding driver involvement, courtesy of quicker turn-in and higher entry speeds, along with a drastic reduction in braking distance and less activity at the wheel required of the driver. Its technical, dynamics and design characteristics have allowed this car to snap up international awards, including the “Supercar of the Year 2012” from BBC Top Gear Magazine, the “Design Award” from Auto Bild and the Golden Compass for Design.
