Advice on F12

As I've described previously, I'm not sure i can detect the extra few % of HP and Torque, at least uniquely, between the TDF and F12.

What is ABSOLUTELY noticeable is the response of the engine (i.e. when/how power is delivered) and the match of the DCT (response and gearing). Couple that with the lower weight, and the "power" components of the calculus are quite clear. I'm sure some of it is engine mapping, reduced rotating mass, and definitely the variable intake. Amazing engine.

Moreso, the chassis differences (weight, front tires, brakes, RWS) are a MUCH bigger difference and are noticeable....less in "normal" driving and moreso when spirited and within sight of the limit.....which in this car is quite high but a balancing act. The front engine physics are much different than a 458.....the F12 or TDF have higher limits and potential, but are trickier to get there (and stay there). The HP alone requires deft footwork and steering inputs....the line between hero and zero is pretty fine.

 

That was very insightful. Nothing like personal experience to bring out these differences. Thank you.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

Yes, its not just the power difference. They make changes to the whole package. Driving the F12tdf is said to be a different experience from the F12b. As it should be.

The F12b looks magnificent in Ferro!

 

Yes that is true, and in general I prefer the older color. I think they've taken it closer to Grigio Titanio. I like that the older color had more warmth.

 

I am kind of disappointed to hear about the change. I had a California in Grigio Ferro and was going to spec my 812 in it. It did have some very subtle brown tones tha gave it nice warmth. May have to roll with GS instead but would love to see more pics of the NF.

 

Could you comment on the brakes as compared to Berlinetta? I'm not sure if they are the same as the 812 but there is a short description from Ferrari stating 812 has better stopping performance. Is this noticeable on tdf at human speeds, lighter weight aside?

 

Interestingly, according to PPG paints Nuovo Grigio Ferro is actually the same shade as Grigio FF, which was available as a new special shade for the FF.

I think it will be interesting to put two F12s side by side in Ferro and Nuovo Ferro to see the real difference and photograph it.

 

Brakes are superb. LaF rotors and calipers, much wider front tires and less weight so the braking performance is really good. The larger front tires contribute a lot to this,
Very noticeable. Very. It's very difficult to get the ABS to work in normal conditions unless you're just blindly pounding the pedal

 

Thanks Entropy for the write-ups on the differences. No doubt these cars are serious tools and one has to have some skill to really drive them. As I'm retired from the track I'm not sure i would pick up the differences so quickly but I trust they are there. It kind of reminds me of the 599 GTB-GTO. They didn't feel wildly different on a little putt down the road, but when you pressed on, I could feel the differences. And I never got near the limits of the GTO.

@deltona- that is very interesting and I wonder about that. I've often wondered if they use the same color under different names. It seems that might be the case...

@RamsHmb- I wonder if they wouldn't be willing to use the older formulation if you request it. It will probably cost you extra but that is the price to have a dream fulfilled...

 

Great question. Heading in next week and I will ask and let you know what I hear. Everything has a price, right?

 

Definitely the right decision nad you won't forget it. Whilst I have always corrected the poor Factory paint, in future I will also fully wrap as my tdf looks amazing wrapped and it's virtually undetectable.

 

Gorgeous scenery which only adds to the magnificent experience of driving F12.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

Beautiful Mario! Bellissimo!

One thought- The detailer should not need to ceramic coat the areas they will then cover with protective film. I think it is not only duplicative, but also might make applying the film more difficult. There are ceramic coatings they can apply on top of the film. The only good reason I can think of to do this is it makes the film easier to clean, especially if you are going to use an air blower for drying the car.

 

Mario,

Congratulations on one of the most beautiful F12s I ever seen.

Great to have such beauty here in the country. Hopefully I'll see it in the metal.

Wish you many years of "symphonic music" at the wheel of this F12.

R

 

Thanks Mario. I suppose in theory that makes sense. I don't know in practice. It is true that you can pull the clear coat, and even the paint itself off if you are not careful. I am sure you are with a very good installer.

 

Absolutely lovely!

 

Agreed, I had a ceramic coating put on top of film - was advised that was the best way to do it.