What is it?
In simplest terms the F12 Berlinetta is the replacement for the Ferrari 599, but it is much more than that. With a 740hp 6.3-litre V12 and an all-aluminium spaceframe weighing 70kg less than its predecessor's the F12 Berlinetta is set to become the fastest and most powerful road car that Ferrari has ever made. The power and weight, when combined with fancy electronics and a large dollop of downforce, mean the F12 can sprint from 0-62mph in 3.1 seconds, has a top speed in excess of 210mph and most tellingly can lap Ferrari's test circuit in Fiorano faster than the extreme 599 GTO.
Why's it here?
Until Ferrari announces a successor to the Enzo the F12 Berlinetta will act as the brand's 'halo-car' (as if Ferrari need such a thing) With other manufacturers opting for carbon fibre to reduce weight and turbocharged V8s for performance Ferrari has resolutely stuck with aluminium for the spaceframe and V12 powerplants. Stop-start technology (likely to be an option in the UK) makes a nod in the general direction of ever tightening EU emission directives but with 740hp the F12 Berlinetta is still a full-fat Ferrari.
Show stopper or floor filler?
This is the definition of a show stopper. The crowds of journalists trying to catch a glimpse of the new car was at least ten deep and the unveiling was wisely held off until after all the other cars from the Fiat group had been seen.
Paul Healy - 6 Mar 2012