Ferrari 812 GTS Review — A Grand Tourer With The Performance Of A Supercar: DubiCars Exotic Car Of The Week

The Ferrari 812 GTS — when it was launched in 2019, became the first front-engined series production convertible with a V12 produced by Ferrari in about 50 years, making it truly iconic. In addition, it could also be the last Ferrari with a naturally aspirated V12 engine. Now that is what makes this an exotic.

If you’re looking for a combination of glamour and high performance in a series production car, there is nothing that comes quite close to this. In this edition of the DubiCars Exotic Car Of The Week, we dig deeper into the drop-top Ferrari 812 GTS.

Design & Styling

The Ferrari 812 GTS is a visual symphony, seamlessly blending aerodynamics with aesthetic appeal. At first glance, its long bonnet, sculpted sides, and aggressive lines evoke a sense of speed even while standing still. It features unmistakable Ferrari styling — the sleek lines, aggressive stance, and aerodynamic features make it a head-turner on the road.

Up front, there are sharp design lines, vents, slats, and air channels that are not just great design elements but functional aero elements at high speeds. The long bonnet hides a masterpiece that requires a section of its own. Read on to know more.

Move over to the side and the sleek 10-spoke dual-tone alloy wheels grab your attention immediately. The design lines on the side add to the character of the GTS, but there’s more to it than just design. It is in essence a channel for air to flow out from the wheel well up front. Even the door handles are aerodynamic.

Open-Top Experience

Behind the seats is a stylish cover under which lies the roof and its folding mechanism. Ferrari has managed to make this cover look stylish as well. At the rear are more sharp design lines, the prancing horse moniker, quad circular tail lamps, and quad exhaust outlets. The high-revving V12 sounds glorious through these pipes.

The retractable hardtop adds a touch of versatility, seamlessly blending the thrill of a convertible with the power of a thoroughbred Ferrari. Whether the top is up or down, the GTS maintains a perfect balance between elegance and aggression, embodying the essence of Ferrari’s design philosophy.

Engine & Performance

Now, we get to what is under the bonnet of the Ferrari 812 GTS. It is the last naturally aspirated Ferrari V12 engine without any hybrid assist and purists absolutely love it. The 6.5-liter V12 engine produces an exhilarating 789 horsepower and 718Nm.

The sound of this engine roaring to life is nothing short of a symphony for petrolheads. One rev is enough to convince you of the supremacy of naturally aspirated V12 engines. In fact, the Ferrari 250 GTO which recently became the most expensive Ferrari ever sold, is powered by a NA V12.

The rear wheels are driven via a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox. So much power and torque going only to the rear wheels makes for an entertaining driving experience. The 812 GTS can sprint from 0 to 100km/h in just three seconds and will go on to a top speed of 339km/h, showcasing its mind-blowing performance capabilities.

Handling & Dynamics

But it’s not just about straight-line speed; the 812 GTS is a dynamic marvel on the curves. Ferrari’s patented Side Slip Control system, combined with the dynamic electric power steering and the latest version of the Virtual Short Wheelbase system, ensures unparalleled handling.

The car dances through corners with precision, providing the driver with a connection to the road that is both thrilling and confidence-inspiring. At the end of the day, it is still a Grand Tourer and it can do that job pretty well too thanks to a dynamic suspension setup.

Unlike most other Ferrari models, getting into and out of the car is pretty easy and the GTS is capable of munching miles like any other fast sedan, all while keeping you comfortable.

Interior

Step inside the Ferrari 812 GTS, and the cockpit envelops you in a world of opulence. Exquisite is the word that comes to mind. Premium leather, carbon fibre accents, and an ergonomic layout create an atmosphere that combines comfort with the thrill of driving a true supercar. The driver-centric design ensures that every button and lever is within easy reach.

In fact, all the core driving-related buttons and switches are on the steering wheel, allowing the driver to use them while still having both hands on the wheel. The instrument cluster is dominated by a large rev counter while a small screen displays vital stats and figures.

The leather-clad seats provide excellent support, ensuring a comfortable ride even during spirited driving. The flat-bottom steering wheel, aluminium pedals, paddle shifters, and the centre console-mounted pillar with the launch control button just add to the performance-oriented aspect of the car.

What sets the GTS apart from its coupe sibling is the joy of open-top driving. The retractable hardtop is a triumph of engineering, providing a seamless transition between the exhilarating rush of wind in your hair and the cocoon of a coupe. The hard-top can be opened or closed in just 14 seconds, and it can be done while driving at speeds of up to 45km/h.

Verdict

There’s no doubt that the Ferrari 812 GTS is a marvel of engineering and design. From the wail of its V12 engine to the elegance of its design, the 812 GTS is a symphony of power and beauty. It’s a testament to Ferrari’s unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, creating not just a car but an experience.

It combines the thrill of open-top driving with the performance prowess that defines the Ferrari brand. Adding value to it is the fact that Ferrari’s Glorious V12 era might come to an end soon and the 812 GTS is the last beneficiary of it.

That is what sets this apart for us. If it made you drool as much as we did, go ahead and check out this Ferrari 812 GTS from Al Ain Class Motors on DubiCars.

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