Ferrari launches limited-edition 812 Competizione and targa version

MANILA: Ferrari has unveiled two limited-edition series cars in a dynamic launch event that was held at the recently opened GT Sporting Activities Department located alongside the Fiorano track in Italy.

The new 812 Competizione series was derived from the 812 Superfast, while the 812 Competizione A is a targa version that was inspired by the Prancing Horse’s glorious open-top tradition.

The launch event was broadcasted live on Ferrari’s social media channels. During the event, the 812 Competizione completed several laps of the circuit to showcase its dynamic and high performance as well as the distinct sound of Ferrari’s iconic naturally aspirated V12. After the hot laps, the car was officially presented by Ferrari Chief Marketing and Commercial Officer Enrico Galliera, who later also revealed the 812 Competizione A.

The 812 Competizione and 812 Competizione A are powered by a naturally aspirated 830hp engine derived from the multi-award-winning powertrain that motivates the 812 Superfast. The engine has the same 6.5-liter displacement as the 812 Superfast’s V12, but it was re-engineered to pull off a new record red line while enhancing the fluid dynamics of the intake and combustion and minimizing internal friction.

Ferrari has also redesigned the key engine components, including the con-rods, pistons, crankshaft, and distribution, to achieve 9,500rpm and high torque delivery. The cars are equipped with titanium con-rods which are 40% lighter than steel versions. Meanwhile, the piston pins are coated with a diamond-like carbon (DLC) that reduces the coefficient of friction to achieve a powerful performance and less fuel consumption.

Both the 812 Competizione and 812 Competizione A get a seven-speed dual clutch transmission that generates a new gearshift experience for the V12. Although they have the same gear ratios as the 812 Superfast, the two new cars delivers a sportier performance brought by the extra 500rpm that was enabled by the new V12.

Since the engine output and maximum revs were both increased, Ferrari has also improved the efficiency of the 812 Competizione’s cooling flow management. Unlike the 812 Superfast that has engine air intakes on either side of the large central grille, the 812 Competizione uses an integrated solution with a single air duct. As a result, the intake for the engine radiators is extended sideways and losses to the intake plenum, which causes an improvement to the overall performance.

The 812 Competizione features several innovative components and contents, including the first use of independent-four wheel steering, the evolution of the side slip control (SSC) system to version 7.0, and the development of the exclusive Michelin Cup2R tires. These new components ensure that the car delivers on its vehicle dynamics performance targets.

In terms of styling, the 812 Competizione carries its own personality that sets it clearly apart from the 812 Superfast. The Ferrari Styling Center has given the car a whole new connotation by applying engineering modifications and choosing styling themes that highlight its architectural design and sporty form.

The 812 Competizione features a striking bonnet that comes with a transverse grove where the carbon-fiber blade is located. The incorporation of this transverse element instead of the louvres that were seen on previous Ferrari sports cars makes the bonnet look cleaner and more sculptural.

The car’s nose showcases its imposing power with a very wide front grille with two distinctive and prominent side brake intakes. The carbon-fiber splitter accentuates the car’s broad stance, indicating its impressive road-holding.

The most recognizable aspect of the 812 Competizione’s look is the replacement of the rear screen by an all-aluminum surface. The car’s aerodynamic efficiency is further enhanced by the vortex generators on the upper surface which creates a backbone effect that highlights its sculptural forms. This motif changes the overall perception of the car’s volume, making it seem more compact than the 812 Superfast and giving a powerful and fastback look.

When it comes to the interior, the 812 Competizione retained the 812 Superfast’s general parameters and main dash and door panel interfaces, as well as the signature “diapason” motif. Located in the central area of the cockpit, the iconic gear-gate theme was given a modern twist to depict  link between Ferrari’s past and future.

On the other hand, Ferrari took advantage of the modifications needed for the rear of the 812 Competizione A to design a truly remarkable architecture. The car features the flying buttress concept on the rear, which smoothly combines with the arrow theme of the front. The flying buttresses make the car’s center of gravity seem lower, especially when seen from the side. The Targa top on the roll bars are made of carbon fiber, therefore, they do not compromise the broader stance created by the flying buttresses. The carbon fiber also creates an aesthetic continuity with the roll bars in the closed configuration. In the open-top configuration, it is packed in a compartment that has the same design shape as the targa itself.

Ferrari offers an extended seven-year maintenance programe with the 812 Competizione and 812 Competizione A. It covers the regular maintenance for the first seven years. The Genuine Maintenance Program is conducted by personnel who were trained directly at the Ferrari Training Center in Maranello, Italy. The service is available in all official Ferrari dealerships worldwide.

Photos from Ferrari

Also read: Here is the Ferrari 812VS that will be launched in May