Ferrari 812 Superfast vs Porsche 718 Spyder RS

Driving Character: Ferrari 812 Superfast vs Porsche 718 Spyder RS

The Ferrari 812 Superfast delivers a visceral, raw experience defined by its 789hp naturally aspirated V12. The steering is exceptionally sharp, requiring precise inputs to manage the power delivery to the rear wheels, aided significantly by the rear-wheel steering system. It excels at high speeds but demands total focus as the limits of adhesion are tested. The chassis balance is classic front-engine GT, though the weight of the drivetrain is always apparent. It is a car that rewards a disciplined driver while punishing complacency, especially on damp British tarmac where the torque can easily overwhelm the traction control.

The Porsche 718 Spyder RS is defined by its mid-engine configuration and the installation of the 4.0L flat-six from the GT3. The chassis is a masterpiece of precision, featuring RS-specific suspension geometry that rewards technical accuracy. The steering feel is sharp and communicative, offering a visceral connection to the tarmac that few modern roadsters can replicate. While it is certainly capable on a track, the engine note and open-top architecture make it a raw experience on winding B-roads. The gearshifts are lightning fast, ensuring the powertrain remains at the heart of the driving sensation throughout every spirited corner.

Head-to-head, the division is clear: the Ferrari 812 Superfast — Naturally aspirated 6.5L V12; 789hp of pure, unfiltered theatricality; the Porsche 718 Spyder RS — 4.0L naturally aspirated flat-six; open-top configuration amplifies mechanical engine and intake sounds. Characteristic of the Ferrari 812 Superfast: RWD at this power level demands skill; rear-wheel steering aids stability. For the Porsche 718 Spyder RS: Balanced mid-engine layout; steering geometry provides agile turn-in response for spirited driving. In outright terms it is 789 hp against 493 — a 296 hp gap — and the Ferrari 812 Superfast reaches 60 mph 0.5s sooner.

Interior & Cabin: Ferrari 812 Superfast vs Porsche 718 Spyder RS

Inside the 812 Superfast, the cabin prioritises driver focus while retaining an air of grand touring luxury. The architecture features a sweeping dashboard that wraps around the occupant, with high-quality materials and bespoke trim options defining the space. The optional Daytona-style seats offer excellent lateral support for spirited driving, and the driver-centric interface places all essential controls within immediate reach. However, the sheer length of the bonnet remains a persistent factor when navigating tight spaces, necessitating careful judgement of the front extremities despite the high level of interior finish and overall build quality.

Inside, the Porsche 718 Spyder RS prioritises weight saving over luxury. The carbon fibre bucket seats provide immense support, while the use of fabric door pulls and minimal sound insulation highlights its motorsport heritage. Build quality is characteristically high, though the cabin environment is undeniably sparse compared to a standard 718. The infotainment system is functional rather than flashy, providing necessary data without distracting from the task of driving. Despite the lack of plush padding, the driver-focused ergonomics remain impeccable, creating a purposeful space that reflects the uncompromising nature of the vehicle’s design philosophy.

Head-to-head, the division is clear: the Ferrari 812 Superfast — Sweeping GT cabin; more space and luxury than mid-engine stablemates; the Porsche 718 Spyder RS — Focused instrument layout; high-quality material finishes maintain the premium feel of Porsche. Characteristic of the Ferrari 812 Superfast: Optional Daytona-spec seats for serious driver engagement. For the Porsche 718 Spyder RS: Supportive bucket seats; cabin architecture prioritises driver connectivity while top is retracted.

Daily Usability: Ferrari 812 Superfast vs Porsche 718 Spyder RS

For such a potent machine, the Ferrari 812 Superfast is surprisingly civilised as a long-distance companion. The 320-litre boot provides adequate space for luggage, making it the most practical front-engine offering in the modern Ferrari hierarchy. While it is perfectly comfortable over long motorway stints thanks to the compliant suspension settings, its width and length make urban manoeuvrability a chore. It demands constant vigilance in narrow city streets, yet it handles parking ramps and standard errands with enough grace to allow for genuine usability, provided the driver is prepared to manage its substantial dimensions.

Daily utility is clearly secondary to performance in the Porsche 718 Spyder RS, yet it remains surprisingly manageable. The inclusion of a nose lift system as standard allows for navigation over urban speed bumps and steep inclines without damaging the front splitter. Storage is adequate for a weekend getaway, with both a front boot and a rear luggage compartment available for essential items. Ingress and egress require some physical agility due to the low-slung bucket seats and side sills, but for owners who accept the compromise of a manual roof operation, it serves as a usable roadster.

Head-to-head, the division is clear: the Ferrari 812 Superfast — 320L boot capacity; most practical front-engine Ferrari; the Porsche 718 Spyder RS — Front and rear storage; 125L cargo capacity remains usable for short-distance trips. Characteristic of the Ferrari 812 Superfast: Dual-zone climate and Grand Tourer spec suits long-distance journeys. For the Porsche 718 Spyder RS: 110 mm clearance provides adequate height; compact exterior dimensions aid navigating city streets. that means 320 litres of boot space against 125, plus a usable front boot in the Porsche 718 Spyder RS, and everyday running costs that favour the Porsche 718 Spyder RS at the pumps.

Ownership: Ferrari 812 Superfast vs Porsche 718 Spyder RS

As one of the final front-engined, naturally aspirated V12 masterpieces, the 812 Superfast enjoys a sterling reputation among collectors. Residual values remain robust, supported by the car's status as a pinnacle of traditional Ferrari engineering. Ownership costs, however, are substantial, with specialist maintenance required to keep the complex V12 running at peak performance. While annual service costs are significant, the peace of mind offered by professional maintenance is essential for preserving the vehicle's long-term value, as enthusiasts continue to favour these unadulterated powerplants over the industry’s shift toward smaller displacement and electrification.

Ownership of the Porsche 718 Spyder RS is defined by its exclusivity and potential for appreciation. As a model with limited production, it sits in a secure position within the enthusiast market. While annual maintenance costs are high, the support provided by the Porsche Motorsport division offers peace of mind for specialized mechanical needs. Insurance premiums will be substantial, and the high purchase price requires careful consideration, but the prospect of long-term residual strength remains strong. For collectors and enthusiasts alike, it represents a peak of internal combustion performance within the Porsche stable.

Head-to-head, the division is clear: the Ferrari 812 Superfast — Last naturally aspirated V12 front-engine Ferrari drives collector sentiment; the Porsche 718 Spyder RS — Enthusiast collector market; naturally aspirated flat-six engines maintain strong value retention. Characteristic of the Ferrari 812 Superfast: Strong residuals; 812 variants hold value due to N/A purist appeal. For the Porsche 718 Spyder RS: Reliable dealer support network; scheduled maintenance remains manageable through official channels. On the wallet the two diverge at £275,000 versus £140,000 — a £135,000 difference, with annual maintenance of £3,500 against £1,400, and warranty cover of 4 years / unlimited miles (original UK cover; servicing is separate) versus 3 years / unlimited miles (original UK new-car cover).

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