The Evolution of Ferrari’s V12 Flagships: The Ultimate Prancing Horses
For over 70 years, Ferrari’s front-engined V12 grand tourers have defined speed, luxury, and exclusivity. From the legendary 250 GTO to the modern 812 Superfast, these cars represent the pinnacle of Ferrari’s road-going performance. Let’s take a look at how Ferrari’s V12 flagships have evolved through the decades.
250 GTO (1962-1964)
The holy grail of classic Ferraris. Built for racing but legal for the road, the 250 GTO featured a 3.0L V12 producing 296 hp and a lightweight, aerodynamic body. Only 36 were ever made, making it one of the most valuable cars in the world today.
365 GTB/4 Daytona (1968-1973)
Nicknamed the Daytona after Ferrari’s 1-2-3 finish at the 1967 race, this grand tourer combined classic styling with raw power. Under the hood was a 4.4L V12 producing 352 hp, making it the fastest road car of its time with a top speed of 174 mph.
Testarossa (1984-1996)
One of the most iconic Ferraris of the ‘80s, the Testarossa was instantly recognizable by its side strakes and wide stance. Powered by a 4.9L flat-12 (technically not a V12, but still Ferrari’s flagship engine), it produced 390 hp, delivering effortless high-speed cruising.
550 Maranello (1996-2001)
Ferrari returned to the front-engined V12 layout with the 550 Maranello. Featuring a 5.5L V12 with 478 hp, it brought back the classic grand tourer experience with modern technology.
599 GTB Fiorano (2006-2012)
With its Enzo-derived 6.0L V12 producing 612 hp, the 599 GTB was a supercar disguised as a grand tourer. The 599 GTO, a track-focused variant, pushed power up to 661 hp, making it the fastest road-going Ferrari at the time.
F12 Berlinetta (2012-2017)
The F12 Berlinetta took Ferrari’s V12 to 730 hp from its 6.3L engine, delivering a 0-60 time of just 3.1 seconds. With aggressive aerodynamics and a high-revving naturally aspirated engine, it was one of the most thrilling Ferraris ever made.
812 Superfast (2017-Present)
The most powerful non-hybrid Ferrari V12. The 812 Superfast cranks out 789 hp from a 6.5L V12, making it the fastest front-engined Ferrari ever, with a top speed of 211 mph. The track-focused 812 Competizione pushes the limits further, revving to 9,500 rpm.
From the classic 250 GTO to the brutal 812 Superfast, Ferrari’s V12 flagships have set the standard for grand touring supercars. Whether you prefer the rawness of a Daytona or the modern power of the 812, these cars define Ferrari’s DNA. Which is your favourite? Let us know in the comments!