Ferrari 512 M in great detail with 36-shot gallery ...
Porsche surprised the world with the launch of the ground-breaking 917 at the Geneva Motor Show. Although it took almost a year to iron out the bugs, the German manufacturer still had a sizeable head-start over arch rival Ferrari. By the time the 917 started winning races, the Italians had just introduced their answer; the 512 S. Just like the 917, it took time to perfect but by the end of the year the gap had virtually been bridged. The heavily revised version of the car was dubbed the 512 M for 'Modificato' or 'Modified.' Among the changes were a more angular bodywork and tweaks to the five-litre, V12 engine, which brought the power up from 550 bhp to 620 bhp. The new car won straight out of the box in the 1970 season finale in Austria. Unfortunately Ferrari decided not to continue its works effort with the 512 M in 1971 and instead focused on the development of the three-litre 312 PB. In private hands the 512 M still did commendably well but ultimately was no match for the works supported Porsches. One of the fastest examples was the Penske prepared, Sunoco liveried machine, which was unfortunately plagued by bad luck throughout the year. The question that remains is that had Ferrari persevered would the 512 M have been able to break the 917's stronghold? Ultimately Ferrari's choice was vindicated as the 312 PB brought the Italian manufacturer the 1972 World Championship.
Today we have taken a closer look at five of the surviving twelve 512 Ms, including the beautiful ex-Penske example. The in-depth article is illustrated by a 36-shot gallery, depicting the cars in action at a variety of events.
Enjoy the links:
1970 - 1971 Ferrari 512 M - Images, Specifications and Information
If you should see a man walking down a crowded street talking aloud to himself, don't run in the opposite direction, but run towards him, because he's a poet. You have nothing to fear from the poet - but the truth.
(Ted Joans)
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