This Ferrari Roma Test Mule Is Hiding the V12 for the 812’s Replacement
The unmistakable Ferrari V12 engine noise proves this ain’t the Roma’s twin-turbo V8.
Ferrari, like most automakers, is being forced to slowly electrify its lineup. As emission restrictions tighten and future regulations are set to ban internal combustion, all automakers are making the switch toward electrification and Ferrari is no different. However, the glorious sound of a Ferrari V12 isn't dead just yet, as Maranello is currently readying a replacement for the 812 Superfast and it was just caught testing all twelve of its cylinders under the skin of a Roma.
This spy video from Varryx shows off what looks to be a Ferrari Roma test mule, wrapped in heavy camouflage, stretching its legs in public. While we don't know for sure what sort of engine is under that long hood, its soundtrack alone proves that it isn't the Roma's twin-turbo V8.
The driver of this prototype Ferrari pops the hood at the start of the video and you can see a glimpse of the crackle-red valve covers on what looks to be a rather large engine. It's tough to see, as the video was shot from a distance and zoomed in, but it looks bigger than a V8. Then, as the driver gives it a few quick bursts of acceleration, you can clearly hear the wail of a free-breathing Ferrari V12.
At the moment, any sort of power figures are pure speculation. Of course, it's going to make more power than the car it replaces, the Ferrari 812 Superfast, which makes 789 horsepower. However, rumors suggest it might use some hybrid assistance to get there. It's absolutely possible that we see a hybridized version of the 812's 6.5-liter V12 make well over 800 horsepower. Although, it might have to be all-wheel drive, as Ferrari is already pushing the boundaries of how much power rear-wheel drive can actually handle.
Ferrari is rumored to be revealing the 812's successor sometime later this year, with a 2024 production date. Considering the continued tightening of emissions regulations, especially in Europe, there's a chance that the V12 you see in this video is the last Ferrari V12 ever made. That makes it special but it also makes us sad.
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