Ferrari F512
Used Car Review

Overview

Looking for the ultimate expression of 1990s supercar excellence? The Ferrari F512 M might be exactly what you’re seeking. This stunning mid-engine masterpiece represents the final evolution of Ferrari’s legendary Testarossa lineage, delivering breathtaking performance wrapped in one of the most iconic silhouettes ever created. It’s the car for enthusiasts who demand nothing less than automotive perfection.

From the moment you lay eyes on it, the F512 M commands attention like few cars can. Its dramatic wedge profile and distinctive side strakes make it instantly recognisable as a true Ferrari icon. While rivals like the Lamborghini Diablo offered raw aggression, the F512 M combined brutal performance with refined Italian elegance. The result was a supercar that looked as magnificent standing still as it did thundering down the road at triple-digit speeds.

Driving the F512 M is an experience that transcends mere transportation. The naturally aspirated flat-12 engine produces a symphony that modern turbocharged units simply cannot match. This was Ferrari’s last hurrah for the mid-engine 12-cylinder layout in a road car, making it historically significant beyond its considerable performance credentials. While the price of entry is substantial, you’re investing in a piece of automotive history that continues to appreciate in value while delivering thrills that modern supercars struggle to replicate.

What's the Ferrari F512 Like to Drive?

The Ferrari F512 M was designed to be the ultimate expression of naturally aspirated performance in a sports car. The magnificent 4.9-litre flat-12 engine produces 440 horsepower, delivered with a ferocity that modern turbocharged engines simply cannot match. The 0-60 mph sprint takes just 4.7 seconds, which remains genuinely quick even by today’s standards. More importantly, the delivery is linear and predictable, building power relentlessly towards the 7,500 rpm redline.

Where the F512 M truly excels is in its driving dynamics and character. The steering is wonderfully communicative, providing precise feedback about every nuance of the road surface. The chassis strikes a remarkable balance between outright performance and relative comfort for a supercar. The gated manual transmission requires skill and commitment, but rewards the dedicated driver with an engagement level that modern paddle-shift systems cannot replicate. This is a car that demands respect but delivers an unmatched driving experience in return.

Inside the Ferrari F512: Comfort & Features

Step inside the F512 M and you’re greeted by an interior that perfectly captures the spirit of 1990s supercar design. The cabin is driver-focused, with every control positioned for maximum functionality rather than luxury. The leather-trimmed seats offer surprising comfort for long journeys, though they’re clearly designed to hold you firmly during spirited driving. Build quality is excellent, with materials that have aged gracefully over the decades.

The driving position is superb once you’re settled in, though entering and exiting requires a degree of athleticism. Visibility is typical of mid-engine supercars of the era, meaning you need to use mirrors and spatial awareness when manoeuvring. Climate control is adequate but not sophisticated by modern standards. The lack of modern conveniences like satellite navigation or smartphone connectivity is actually part of the charm, keeping you focused on the pure driving experience that the F512 M delivers so magnificently.

The Ferrari F512 M stands as one of the greatest supercars ever created, representing the pinnacle of naturally aspirated performance and classic Ferrari design. It successfully delivers an emotional connection and driving experience that modern turbocharged supercars struggle to match. The combination of stunning looks, magnificent engine note, and genuine rarity makes it highly desirable among serious enthusiasts. The main considerations are the substantial purchase price and ongoing running costs, plus the need for careful maintenance to preserve both performance and value. It’s not a car for casual ownership or those seeking modern convenience features. However, for the dedicated enthusiast who appreciates automotive artistry and can afford the associated costs, the F512 M offers rewards that extend far beyond mere transportation. It’s a Rolling piece of history that continues to appreciate while delivering thrills that few cars can match.

Nicholas Zapolski Car Expert

How Much Does It Cost to Run a Ferrari F512?

As a premium collectible supercar, the Ferrari F512 M commands serious running costs that reflect its exotic status. Fuel consumption averages around 12-15 mpg in real-world driving, though this figure becomes academic when you’re enjoying the glorious soundtrack. Insurance costs are substantial, placing the car in the highest groups due to its performance capabilities and replacement value.

The main financial consideration is the initial purchase price, which typically ranges from £300,000 to £500,000 depending on condition and provenance. However, well-maintained examples have shown strong appreciation over recent years, making the F512 M as much an investment as a driving experience. Servicing must be entrusted to Ferrari specialists, with major services costing several thousand pounds. Parts availability is generally good through Ferrari’s heritage programme, though exotic components can be expensive. The key to managing costs is finding a car with comprehensive service history and budgeting appropriately for maintenance through specialist car finance options.

Is the Ferrari F512 Practical for Everyday Use?

For a mid-engine supercar from the 1990s, the Ferrari F512 M offers reasonable practicality within its limitations. The front boot provides enough space for a weekend bag or small suitcase, making short trips perfectly feasible. Storage within the cabin is minimal, consisting mainly of door pockets and a small centre console area. The fuel tank capacity of 110 litres provides decent range when touring, though consumption means frequent fuel stops during enthusiastic driving.

Where the F512 M shows its limitations is in everyday usability compared to modern supercars. Ground clearance requires careful navigation of speed bumps and steep driveways. The wide body and limited rear visibility make urban driving challenging, though the experience becomes more natural with familiarity. For collectors of used Ferrari cars, the F512 M represents the sweet spot between classic character and reasonable usability. It’s perfectly suited for weekend adventures and special occasions, rather than daily transportation duties.

The Ferrari F512 M represents the absolute pinnacle of 1990s supercar design and engineering. It combines Ferrari’s legendary naturally aspirated flat-12 engine with stunning Pininfarina styling and driving dynamics that remain compelling three decades later. While modern supercars may be faster and more sophisticated, few can match the F512 M’s combination of character, rarity, and investment potential.

You choose the F512 M because you want the ultimate expression of classic Ferrari performance without compromise. Its magnificent engine note, precise handling, and timeless design make every journey feel special. This is a car that rewards the dedicated owner with an experience that transcends mere transportation, offering a direct connection to Ferrari’s golden age of supercar development.