Monthly: December 2012

The car that most defined the whole first half of 1970s was the Lotus 72. Ask any long-time racing fan what car comes to mind when you say ‘Formula 1’ and at least half of them will think of wedge-shaped black and gold type 72. It’s partly because the Lotus 72 participated in as much as 6 seasons and 74 World Championship races but most of all the car owes its fame to its record of success – 20 Grand Prix wins, 2 Drivers Championships and 3 Constructors Championship titles

Three words: Fastest. Ferrari. Ever.

F12 Berlinetta may have a name seemingly designed to drive English teachers (and website editors) insane, the 740-horsepower V12 is just plain demenziale. Making 509 lb-ft of torque, it’s enough to propel the 3,362-pound car from 0-62 mph in just 3.1 seconds and 0-104 mph in 8.5 seconds, according to Ferrari. Of course, the true measure of any Prancing Horse is the lap around Fiorano, which the Maranello automaker says can be completed in just 1:23. (The previous record-holder was the 599 GTO at 1:24, while the Enzo clocked in at a leisurely 1:25.)  Ferrari says the new F12 Berlinetta has a lower and more rearward center of gravity thanks to a redesigned suspension and gearbox, with 54 percent of the weight resting over the rear tires. A 0.299 Cd and 76 percent more downforce allows a top speed of over 211 mph.