The F12 TDF celebrates a glorious racing heritage, but in a package that employs leading-edge technologically teamed with beautiful and modern, yet functional, design. That’s the combination that has always set Ferrari apart, both then and now.
Written by indepedent automotive journalist Steve Statham
Ferrari doesn’t do anything halfway. When the company releases a new model, almost inevitably the state of the sports car art is advanced. Each new Ferrari calls to mind past glories while setting the stage for new ones.
A perfect example is the 2017 Ferrari F12 TDF shown here, offered with No Reserve at Barrett-Jackson’s Scottsdale Auction, January 20-28, 2024. Finished in Bianco Fuji with Livrea Nero Stellato stripes, this Ferrari is a striking and purposeful balance of Grand Touring and competition influences.
The “TDF” in this case stands for Tour de France, an automotive endurance race held over several days across France, much like its bike-racing namesake. The origin of the race dates to 1899, although the race was held only intermittently in the early years. The race enjoyed a postwar revival starting in 1951, with a Ferrari 212 Export taking the victory. The following 13 years proved to be a golden age for sports car racing at the Tour de France, with Scuderia Ferrari usually taking the checkered flag. The 250 GT Berlinetta and 250 GTO were the dominant cars from 1956-64. Lucien Bianchi, a future 24 Hours of Le Mans winner, won the race three times in Ferraris during that span with his co-driver Olivier Gendebien, and a fourth time with co-driver Georges Berger.
It’s a rich part of Ferrari history worth remembering, and the F12 TDF pays proper homage. In keeping with that racing heritage, the F12 TDF has several performance enhancements over the F12 Berlinetta on which it is based. Aerodynamics are improved with a competition-inspired front splitter, as well as a longer and higher rear spoiler. Racing-derived strakes on the underbody channel air. Louvres on the quarter-panels extract air from the wheelwell, improving efficiency, and the rear defuser incorporates active flaps to aid stability at speed.
The F12 TDF saw the debut of Ferrari’s Virtual Short Wheelbase system, which utilizes an active rear axle to allow the wheels to pivot around a vertical axis. As Ferrari explained it, “The Virtual Short Wheelbase improves the car’s responsiveness to make it feel more agile, with instantaneous turn-in that can be best appreciated on twisty roads and on more technically challenging tracks while, at the same time, improving stability at high speed.”
The improvements in aerodynamics and chassis dynamics will be put to good use, given the pure thrust available. The F12 TDF is powered by a 6262cc V12 producing 770 horsepower and 520 ft/lbs of torque. The engine was designed for the outer limits of performance, with an 8,900 rpm redline, and has the ability to take the F12 TDF from 0-60 mph in 2.9 seconds and on to a rated top speed of 211 mph. As with every Ferrari engine, the V12 is a visual work of art, with red manifold accents that further tie this modern sports car to classic Ferraris from the past. The V12 is teamed with a 7-speed F1 dual-clutch gearbox specific to the F12 TDF, with shorter gear ratios that deliver faster upshifts and downshifts.
Delivering that power to the pavement are 20-inch forged Matte Black racing wheels, accented by blacked-out brake calipers. The F12 TDF comes with a high-performance anti-lock braking system with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution. Additional advanced electronics include F1 Traction Control, Electronic Stability Control and E-Diff 3, a third generation of Ferrari’s electronic differential.
The cockpit is suitable for extended periods on track or on the highway. The Nero with Bianco stitched interior is enhanced with carbon-fiber accents, part of Ferrari’s plan to shave every excess ounce of weight. In keeping with the minimalist competition theme, the glove compartment was eliminated in the F12 TDF and replaced by knee padding.
The Ferrari F12 TDF offered at Scottsdale is one of only 799 built. Included in the sale are a build book and unopened luggage set. The luggage is as beautifully detailed as every other aspect of the car, decorated with prancing horses and F12 TDF emblems.
The F12 TDF celebrates a glorious racing heritage, but in a package that employs leading-edge technologically teamed with beautiful and modern, yet functional, design. That’s the combination that has always set Ferrari apart, both then and now.
For a chance to own this remarkable supercar, register to bid today.
