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.