Ferrari 812 Competizione

One wouldn't think it'd be possible to improve on the 789-horsepower V12 powerplant equipped to the Ferrari 812 Superfast. Then again, we aren't one of the undaunted engineers working at Ferrari. They've been busy of late and have just unleashed this, the epic new 812 Competizione. Based on the 812 Superfast, this limited-edition model brings even more power to the party along with a higher rev limit approaching superbike levels, enhanced aerodynamics, and even more imposing styling. Revealed in tandem with the 812 Competizione A, a Targa variant, this is Ferrari at its unfiltered best.

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While retaining the 812 Superfast's distinctive silhouette with a stretched hood and tall tail, the greater aerodynamic requirements of the 812 Competizione have introduced numerous alterations that give it an edgier appearance. One of the most notable changes is the use of an all-aluminum surface in place of the Superfast's rear window. With the placement of vortex generators on this surface, the Competizione not only looks more striking but is more aerodynamically efficient - rearward visibility is another story but perhaps that isn't a problem for an 819-hp Ferrari that will leave almost everything else in its dust.

The revised hood now has a transverse groove that contains carbon-fiber blade slits, concealing the air vents. Right in front, there is a broad grille with large side brake intakes as well as a carbon-fiber splitter. The rear spoiler sits even higher and, finally, that center stripe harks back to racing Ferraris of the past.

Although sharing its 6.5-liter displacement with the 812 Superfast, the 812 Competizione has several modifications to boost its power output to a sensational 819 hp, up from the Superfast's 789 horses. However, torque has decreased slightly from 530 lb-ft in the Superfast to 510 lb-ft in the Competizione.

Notably, the V12 can now rev all the way up to 9,500 rpm, far above the plethora of turbocharged high-performance engines now on the market. Some of the changes include redesigned cylinder heads, a lighter crankshaft, and a modified intake system. Paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox, shift times are now five percent faster.

The result of these changes will see the Competizione reach 62 mph from rest in just 2.85 seconds and zip from 0-124 mph in a mere 7.5 seconds. The latter time is nearly half a second quicker than the Superfast. Flat out, the Competizione will reach 340 km/h (211 mph).

Although technically a GT, the Competizione is far from just a mile muncher. Ferrari has made many changes to ensure a sporty and sharp experience to match the potency of the V12. To that end, the car utilizes independent four-wheel steering, dedicated Michelin Cup2R tires, and the latest version 7.0 of the company's Side Slip Control system.

Along with a weight reduction of just under 84 pounds compared with the Superfast (the dry weight is now just 3,278 lbs), the Competizione promises high grip levels and fabulously quick responses. The left and right actuators for the independent rear-wheel steering can be initiated individually, improving responsiveness.

Ferrari has focused on what matters - performance and dynamics - and as such, the 812 Competizione's cabin doesn't differ dramatically from the 812 Superfast. However, the door panels are lighter here than in the Superfast. For the first time on a V12 Ferrari, the gear-gate theme has been redesigned in a more modern style. On the dashboard, the 812 Competizione script on the passenger side is a reminder that you're behind the wheel of something truly special. Ferrari's familiar central tachometer and a steering vehicle with easily accessible controls over the car's performance characteristics remain.

The Ferrari 812 Competizione and its Competizione A twin had barely been revealed when it was announced that both had been sold out. That means that all 999 examples of the former and 599 units of the latter have already been accounted for. As for what those lucky few customers paid, well, the price is as steep as you'd expect.

The Competizione carried a price of €499,000 in Italy which works out to just over $600,000 at current rates. That's over $200,000 more than what you'd pay for the 812 Superfast. Then again, the fact that Ferrari has been able to squeeze even more power and performance out of that V12 is a monumental technical achievement. This, together with the 812 Competizione's lighter weight, aggressive looks, and rarity make it one of the most desirable cars on the planet.

Deliveries of the 812 Competizione will begin in the first quarter of 2022.