
When we talk about icons in the automotive world, Ferrari is most likely one of the first automakers we think of. And for good reason. But what specific Ferrari model comes to mind?
For me, the F12 Berlinetta is undeniably one of the icons to come out of Maranello. Introduced in 2012 as the replacement for the 599 GTB, this had some pretty big shoes to fill. It performed brilliantly. I'll give you some specs to gawk at for a second and then we will talk about all the other elements that make this car great.
Engine: 6.3 naturally aspirated V12
Horsepower: 731 at 8,500 RPM
Torque: 509 lb-ft
Top Speed: 211 MPH
Transmission: 7-speed dual clutch w/shortened gear ratios
RWD
Engine placement: Front-Mid

The F12 won the 2013 International Engine of the Year Award in the Best Performance category and Best Engine above 4.0 liters. It also won the 2012 Supercar of the Year by car magazine Top Gear. So it's impressive. The sound that this engine makes at or near red line is other worldly, and the power output is just astonishing even at mid rev-range of 4th gear.
Let's talk driving dynamics by starting with the steering. Incredibly sharp, precise, virtually zero play and when you're at speed it will go where you want with the slightest touch of input. A little scary when on a b-road, but phenomenal on the track. Speaking of the track, this is truly the only way to fully experience this car, to understand the full potential it packs under the hood and in the chassis tuning. While it is a very aggressive car with incredible power delivery, and I do mean incredible power, it is still somewhat refined especially when it comes to ride comfort. Even in max race mode with ESC off, it won't break your back. It is quite easy to drive when you have the aids turned on despite it having 731 horsepower, rear wheel drive and the engine in the front. This is thanks to Ferrari's new at the time traction control system, engine position, air management and downforce. Grip is really good, suspension is near perfect, paired with the sharp steering, this is a track weapon to be reckoned with.

Thanks to clever design and engineering this car is very slippery. aerodynamically speaking.
You see, There are active brake cooling vents that open up to cool off the brakes when they get too hot but close back up to improve aero. Behind the front fenders is the Aero Bridge, cut outs where air travels in through an opening and out the side of the car thus providing extra downforce. A massive rear diffuser channels air up from under the F12 to provide low pressure sucking the car down to the ground, which is called ground effects. Clearly there is no lack of grip when going round the corners, thanks to massive rear tires, down force, suspension magic and ground effects. At 124MPH the F12 produces 271 lbs of downforce. This car is a serious track runner that will set an impressive lap time, and does not shy away from a challenge. Speaking of the track, one of my favorite features of this car is the rear fog light it has just like a Formula One car.
Driving in the city or on back roads is an absolute joy. Thanks to incredible steering feedback you know exactly where your tires are and what they are doing. If you're a true driver, you'll know the importance of steering feedback and how much of a difference this can make. With comfort mode turned on, the air conditioning set just so and and an iced tea in the cupholder, this car turns in to a touring pleasure, soaking up bumps with ease, and turning while going 20mph down Main Street, quietly.
We have to talk about the design because wow. Just wow. The F12 is the last Ferrari to be designed by Pininfarina, an Italian automotive design firm and coach builder founded in 1930. It is a beutiful car, and a beautiful Ferrari. You can find the name "Pininfarina" on the front end of the side skirts if you look closely. Theres no question that the F12 Berlinetta is special, in fact this is the only Ferrari I would ever own given the opportunity. In an era where batteries and smaller displacement become the new norm, this is a bold statement championing a cause, a loud, powerful and FUN cause. This may very well be one of the last Naturally Aspirated V12s from Ferrari without any hybrid assistance. This car is an icon not only for what it achieves on paper and on the track but for what it stands for. This very car sparked a dream in my younger self, it was this car that inspired me to do what I do today. This is an icon, and that hill I will die on.
Thanks for reading.
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