Official photographs of the Ferrari 575M Maranello replacement are circulating the internet. The new V12 model builds on the lines which were introduced on the 612 Scaglietti, and will represent the most potent road model in the current Ferrari range.

The new Ferrari is currently without an official designation other than its F139 development code. Its Enzo-derived 6.0 V12 engine, which will eventually deliver between 590-625 bhp to the rear wheels, has resulted in likely suggestions based around the ‘600’ ringer. Potential secondary names for this Gran Turismo par excellence are ‘Imola’ and ‘Testarossa’.

The far-back location of the newcomer’s engine is not dissimilar in arrangement to that of the Ferrari 612 or Aston Martin AM V8, allowing for a near perfect front to rear weight distribution of 45% - 55%, achieved partially by means of a transaxle. The wheelbase will therefore be around 150mm shorter than that of the 612 Scaglietti, but 300mm longer than the outgoing 575M Maranello. This remarkable length increase is due to the position of the engine behind the front axle. This extra wheelbase length has also resulted in a larger cabin and a greater luggage capacity.
 

The Pininfarina-designed bodywork builds on the theme initially presented on their Rossa concept car in 2000, and which later made its production debut on the Ferrari 612 Scaglietti. The new car is, however, less edgy than the Scaglietti, which has won as many critics as admirers in the looks department. It also introduces a new take on the Formula 1 nose, with a prominent central section harking directly to its trackside stable mates.

The rear of the new model makes a surprise change from the famous quad tail lamp theme, and now two simple round lights feature, protruding from the car’s voluptuous haunches. Despite these single round taillights, the car’s shapely rump, with its combination of sharp creases and round curves, gives somewhat of a reminder to the much-loved Ferrari 365 GTB4 ‘Daytona’ model.

A nice Pininfarina comeback is the curvaceous and recessed rear window, which is flanked by buttresses. The flanks are characterised by two separate air vents, one for the engine bay, the other for rear brake cooling. Quad tailpipes and an air diffuser finish off the rear, whilst traditional starfish alloy wheels feature.

The new Ferrari brings forward the Prancing Horse’s bloodline as breeders of the finest Gran Turismo pedigree. Designed as a means of comfortable transportation with speed on tap when necessary, the new model will be capable of topping 340 km/h, but at the same time it will remain an easy and forgivable car to drive like the 575M that it replaces.