Ferrari 612 (04-10) - Review

Review by Simon Harris on
Last Updated: 10 December 2008
Catch mention of the name Ferrari and it's difficult not to conjure up images of voluptuous supercars. But in fact the firm also has a long tradition of producing practical GT cars like the 612 Scaglietti. Successor to the popular 456, the much faster 612 hasn't had the easiest of rides from critics since its introduction in 2004, mostly due to its rather awkward styling. Get past the aesthetic issues though, and there's much to like. Alternatives like the Aston DB9 and Bentley Continental GT are two plus twos rather than actual four-seaters like the 612. The mighty Mercedes-Benz CL65 AMG probably comes closest in terms of space, price and performance although it lacks the kudos of the Italian coupé.
3 out of 5

Safety

Launched in 2004, the absence of side and curtain airbags on the 612 is disappointing. Driver and passenger front airbags are at least standard, as is an electronic stability system and both the steel brakes and alternative carbon ceramic setup come with anti-lock and electronic brakeforce distribution. The advanced aluminium space frame chassis is likely to offer good protection in an accident.

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3.5 out of 5

Reliability

Ferrari has made great strides in quality in recent years but the old reputation hasn't been banished yet. Even our test car suffered a mild wobble while the Becker satellite navigation system trying to convince us we were in another country.

Car check problem points

Body

No problems reported.

Engine/Gearbox

No problems reported.

Other

No problems reported.