Ferrari 612 Scaglietti
Ratings
4 stars
Summary
Recommended. Ferrari's ultimate GT possesses continent-crushing pace - but the 599 does much the same job for less money.
Review
V12 Ferrari Grand Tourers are about as exclusive as they come, with the 612 Scaglietti offering a phenomenal driving experience, plus "two-plus-two" practicality, for those who can afford its phenomenal running costs.
Not that the design is likely to be univerally appreciated, Ferrari having departed from the restrained elegance that led to this car's predecessor, the 456 GT, once being described as the most beautiful car on the planet. The 612 has a far more severe frontal aspect, with swept-back headlamps and a very conspicuous radiator grille.
Inside the cabin the true specialness becomes apparent. This is a Ferrari for those who regard lesser Ferraris as being not exclusive enough, and the quality of fit and finish is exemplary - and a clear improvement over the 456. The driving position features a decent range of adjustment and the high-speed refinement is outstanding, making the 612 a pretty much peerless place to spend serious time. Rear seat space is limited, although the boot is large by Ferrari standards.
The driving experience is considerably less hardcore than that of the rest of the Ferrari range, but the 612 still possesses extraordinarily high levels of performance and grip. The 532 bhp 5.7 litre V12 engine is capable of propelling the car from 0-62 mph in just 4.2 seconds, with the accleration barely diminishing all the way to the 200 mph top speed.
As you'd expect, running costs are truly scary. Add up depreciation, insurance and servicing and you'll be looking to find a six-figure sum just to cover the amount this car will lose you over three years of ownership - and that's without considering the initial purchase cost. Seen against that, the 13.6 mpg fuel economy (which is actually sub-10 under enthusiastic use) seems insignificant. Only the very, very rich need apply.
Ratings Breakdown
Styling
4 star
Not the most beautiful of recent Ferraris, although the design certainly projects plenty of gravitas.
Handling
5 star
Considering its mass and bulk, the 612 puts in a brilliant dynamic performance. More dynamically laid-back than the rest of the Ferrari range, but still an adjective-stretching driving experience.
Comfort
4 star
The comfortable driving position and excellent high-speed refinement make the 612 an excellent way to cover serious distances.
Quality & Reliability
4 star
Well constructed and with an interior that possesses far more of a quality feel than previous Ferraris.
Performance
5 star
The amazing V12 engine delivers enormous urge under pretty much all circumstances. Optional
Roominess
3 star
Rear seats are only suited to smaller occupants - or those prepared to get their ankles squashed. Boot is reasonably sized by supercar standards.
Running Costs
1 star
You could run a luxury yacht or fund a beautiful second home with what the 612 will cost to keep on the road. The biggest expenses are depreciation and servicing.
Value for money
2 star
Compared to 2+2 rivals from Aston Martin and Bentley the 612 looks very expensive, although they can't match the Ferrari's exclusivity.
