Two low-resolution images leaked from a private online configurator have prematurely revealed the Ferrari F12 GTO, a limited-edition model based on the F12berlinetta.
As its name implies, the F12 GTO is a tribute to the iconic 250 GTO, one of the most sought-after — and expensive — models ever built in the company’s illustrious history. Up front, the F12 GTO gains a handful of heritage-laced styling cues such as a more oval grille and a pair of air ducts built into the hood. The back end gets air vents on the wheel arches that are reminiscent of the ones found behind the 250’s front wheels, a retro-inspired metal gas cap and a strip of black trim that connects the tail lamps.
However, the regular-production GTO might not look like the one shown here because the leaked images come from a configurator.
Dutch website Autogespot believes the F12 GTO will be powered by a gasoline-electric drivetrain made up of a naturally-aspirated 6.3-liter V12 engine and a LaFerrari-derived kinetic energy recovery system (KERS) likely made up of two electric motors and a high-capacity lithium-ion battery pack. Working together, the two power sources are expected to generate over 800 horsepower.
The standard F12 can reach 60 mph from a stop in 3.1 seconds. The GTO’s performance figures aren’t available yet, but it should be noticeably faster than the Berlinetta because it will be more powerful and noticeably lighter thanks to the widespread use of lightweight materials.
The Ferrari F12 GTO will be introduced at a major auto show before the end of the year, but we can’t give you a more precise time frame. Some sources claim it will greet the public for the first time this September at the Frankfurt Motor Show, while others believe it will make its official debut in August at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance that will take place in central California.
Regardless of where it’s unveiled, the F12 GTO will be limited to just 650 units. Pricing information hasn’t been published yet, though interested parties have plenty of time to save up because the first deliveries are tentatively scheduled for late next year.
