Synonymous with performance, luxury, and Italian craftsmanship, Ferrari has consistently pushed the boundaries of engineering and design for decades. The 2012 Ferrari 599, the final production year of the model, marked the end of an era for Ferrari’s front-engined V12 GTs before the arrival of the F12berlinetta. With subtle refinements, exclusive variants, and a timeless design, the 2012 Ferrari 599 stands as a modern classic that continues to captivate enthusiasts and collectors around the globe.
Striking Design and Styling
The Ferrari 599's design is a masterclass in combining aggressive performance cues with sophisticated elegance. Its long, low-slung body and sweeping lines embody the essence of a true grand tourer, while subtle details reflect the cutting-edge technology hidden beneath its skin.
Every curve and contour on the body serves a purpose—enhancing downforce, reducing drag, and improving high-speed stability. The side profile is defined by a muscular stance, a sloping roofline, and pronounced rear haunches that highlight the car’s rear-wheel-drive layout. Large alloy wheels and flared wheel arches add to its assertive road presence. Around back, the signature round taillights, aggressive rear diffuser, and twin exhaust tips round out the car's sporty appearance, all while staying true to Ferrari’s design heritage.
Engine and Performance Specs
This engine, known as the Tipo F140 C, is closely related to the one used in the legendary Ferrari Enzo, and it's a mechanical masterpiece that blends old-school thrills with modern precision. Its top speed exceeds 330 km/h (205 mph), placing it firmly in the upper echelon of grand tourers and even rivaling many mid-engine supercars of its time.
Beyond straight-line speed, the 599 also excels in delivering a thrilling driving experience thanks to its rear-mounted transaxle, which helps achieve near-perfect weight distribution (47% front / 53% rear).
The sound of the V12 engine is another highlight—raw, mechanical, and emotionally stirring. It’s a supercar that doesn’t require a racetrack to be enjoyed, making it ideal for both spirited weekend drives and long-distance touring.
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Driving Dynamics and Technology
The 2012 Ferrari 599 is more than just a high-powered grand tourer—it’s a showcase of advanced engineering and cutting-edge technology, all aimed at delivering a driving experience that’s both exhilarating and confidence-inspiring. Ferrari drew heavily from its Formula 1 expertise to give the 599 driving dynamics that are remarkably agile for a front-engined V12 GT.
The result is improved traction out of corners and enhanced stability at high speeds, even in less-than-ideal road conditions. The result is real-time adjustment of the suspension stiffness based on road conditions and driving style. This means the 599 can seamlessly switch between offering a smooth, comfortable ride and razor-sharp handling at the flick of a switch.
The car also features an electronic limited-slip differential (E-Diff), which works in tandem with the F1-Trac system to optimize cornering performance. By actively distributing torque between the rear wheels, it maximizes grip and minimizes understeer or oversteer, allowing the driver to push the car harder through bends with confidence.
The Manettino dial, mounted on the steering wheel, allows the driver to toggle between different driving modes such as Ice, Low Grip, Sport, Race, and CST-Off (for full manual control). Each mode adjusts the behavior of the traction control, stability system, suspension, throttle response, and transmission settings, giving the driver a tailored experience depending on the situation.
Combined with a rigid aluminum chassis and carbon-ceramic brakes (optional but common on later models), the 599 delivers exceptional stopping power and a planted feel, even during aggressive driving.
Interior Features and Comfort
Step inside the 2012 Ferrari 599, and you’re immediately immersed in an environment that reflects Ferrari’s dual commitment to luxury and performance. The cabin is meticulously crafted, offering a driver-focused layout wrapped in premium materials, with just enough creature comforts to make long-distance touring both thrilling and comfortable.
Material quality is exceptional. The 599’s interior features hand-stitched leather upholstery, carbon fiber accents, and brushed aluminum trim. Every surface is thoughtfully designed to be both visually striking and functionally purposeful.
The seating is another highlight. Ferrari’s sport bucket seats provide ample bolstering for spirited driving, yet are adjustable and padded enough for extended road trips. Optional Daytona-style stitching adds a retro touch, while available carbon fiber seat shells reduce weight and elevate the sense of sportiness.
The central infotainment system includes navigation and basic media controls, though by today’s standards it’s quite minimal—reflecting Ferrari’s focus on driving, not digital distractions. The steering wheel is one of the most iconic features of the interior. Inspired by Ferrari’s Formula 1 heritage, it includes integrated LED shift lights and the signature Manettino switch, which allows the driver to toggle between driving modes without removing their hands from the wheel. Controls for wipers, turn signals, and headlights are also built into the wheel, eliminating traditional stalks and reinforcing the performance-oriented ethos.
Dual-zone climate control, premium audio (including an optional Bose system), and ample cabin space make it surprisingly practical for a V12 grand tourer. The rear cargo shelf offers room for soft bags or briefcases, while a modest trunk can accommodate luggage for weekend getaways.
Special Editions and Variants
These special editions were not merely aesthetic updates; they embodied significant engineering upgrades, lighter weight, and in some cases, open-top freedom, all while amplifying the 599's already potent character.
Ferrari 599 GTO (Gran Turismo Omologata)
Perhaps the most famous variant of the 599, the 599 GTO was introduced as a limited-production, road-legal version of the track-only 599XX. Only 599 units were produced globally, making it an instant collector's item.
The result? A 0–100 km/h (0–62 mph) time of 3.3 seconds and a top speed of 335 km/h (208 mph). In addition to raw speed, the GTO featured a stiffer suspension, quicker steering, and enhanced aerodynamics for better track performance.
Ferrari SA Aperta
Just 80 units were produced worldwide, making it one of the most exclusive Ferraris of the modern era. The SA Aperta used the same 661-hp engine as the GTO but paired it with a unique open-top body.
599XX and 599XX Evo (Track-Only Models)
Though not street-legal, the 599XX and its evolution, the 599XX Evo, deserve mention. These track-only variants were designed as experimental platforms for Ferrari's advanced technologies. With extensive aerodynamic upgrades, stripped interiors, and over 720 hp in the Evo version, these cars offered a glimpse into Ferrari's future engineering ambitions.
HGTE Package (Handling Gran Turismo Evoluzione)
For buyers of the standard 599 GTB, Ferrari also offered the HGTE package, which enhanced the car’s handling characteristics. The HGTE package delivered a more connected and dynamic driving experience without compromising comfort, making it a popular option for drivers who wanted more edge from their grand tourer.
Legacy and Collector Value
As the final front-engined V12 Ferrari before the introduction of the F12berlinetta, the 599 marks the end of a specific design and engineering era—one that emphasized naturally aspirated power, analog feel, and timeless Pininfarina styling.
At its launch, the 599 GTB Fiorano was the most powerful production Ferrari ever made (excluding hypercars like the Enzo). These features not only enhanced performance but also made the car more accessible and enjoyable for a wider range of driving conditions.
The result is a vehicle with enduring elegance and purity—free from the overly aggressive styling cues of more recent models. Its proportions, stance, and detailing continue to resonate with collectors who value subtlety alongside performance.
In the collector car market, the 599 has seen a steady rise in interest and value, particularly for limited editions and well-optioned examples. The 599 GTO, with only 599 units produced, has become a crown jewel in modern Ferrari collections, often commanding prices well above its original MSRP. The SA Aperta, due to its extreme rarity (only 80 made), has reached near-mythical status, with values regularly exceeding $1 million at auction.
The 599’s collectibility is also boosted by its usability. Unlike many exotic cars that are either too finicky or too aggressive for real-world driving, the 599 offers a level of refinement and reliability that makes it suitable for grand touring without sacrificing performance credentials.
