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| Autos |
Ferrari’s Feat
Steven Flax
07/01/2004
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Another feature lifted from the Enzo
and from Ferrari’s recent racing technology is a fully active suspension. Six
accelerometers constantly monitor the car’s speed and attitude and adjust the
valving of the shock absorbers. This helps keep the tires in optimal contact
with the road.
VALUE JUDGMENT
The $250,000 Ferrari Scaglietti, unveiled last December, is a design and
engineering marvel that encompasses and integrates Ferrari’s many innovations,
both on the racetrack and off. The company will make only 350 Scagliettis each
year, and this rarity will support what is expected to be a robust aftermarket
value, perhaps even in the range of the legendary Enzo. |
The heart of the 612 is the engine, which has double overhead
camshafts and four valves for each of its 12 cylinders. Much of the engine
assembly is crafted by hand. As with the powerplant for Ferrari racing cars, the
612’s engine is painstakingly manufactured to very tight tolerances. Here is one
example of the craftsmanship: Before the ball bearings are installed in the
valve guides, the bearings are dipped in liquid nitrogen. This freezes them and
forces them to contract a miniscule amount. After they are installed and return
to room temperature, they expand, creating an exceptionally snug fit.
When
revved to its 7,250 rpm redline, the engine produces 540 hp, over 100 hp more
than the engine in the predecessor 456 GT. The Scaglietti’s engine generates 434
ft lbs of torque at 5,250 rpm. Although the 612 is a much longer car than its
predecessor, the company reports that it accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 4.2
seconds, reaches a quarter-mile in 12.3 seconds and hits a top speed of more
than 196 mph.
Visually, the 612 Scaglietti is wonderful to observe, even when
it is standing still. The car is surprisingly wide and creates a stable stance.
Topped by an elegantly long hood, the front fenders smoothly integrate the
headlights, and the sides curve gently over the rear wheel wells and into a
backside with two dual exhaust pipes and two dual taillights reminiscent of the
Enzo. The subtly scalloped sides are reminiscent of the famous 375MM that
Ferrari exhibited at the Paris Auto Show in 1954.
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