1970 Ferrari 512 M
1970 Ferrari 512 M
Brand
Ferrari
Year
1970
Country
Italy
Generation
512
1970 Ferrari 512 M
Brand
Ferrari
Year
1970
Country
Italy
Generation
512
About this car
Discover the history
The Ferrari 512 M, introduced in 1970, was a direct response to Ferrari’s need to stay competitive in the Group 5 sports car category, specifically against Porsche’s 917, which dominated endurance racing. The 512 M (“Modificata”) was an evolution of the 512 S, and it was primarily Ferrari’s answer to address the Porsche 917’s superior aerodynamics, speed, and performance. While Ferrari had initially introduced the 512 S, they quickly realized they needed to further enhance the car’s aerodynamics and engine output to challenge the Porsche.
The 512 M was built around a lightweight tubular steel chassis with bodywork made from fiberglass, which allowed for a significant weight reduction compared to the 512 S. Ferrari engineers reworked the aerodynamics significantly, employing extensive wind tunnel testing at Stuttgart University. The M variant showcased more angular bodywork and a Kamm-style tail that drew visual similarities to the Porsche 917K, which was dominating races. The revised design improved airflow, downforce, and overall high-speed stability. This was complemented by an increase in power output. Ferrari upgraded the V12 engine with four-valve heads, higher compression, and improved fuel injection, boosting power from 550 to 610 horsepower, allowing the car to reach speeds of up to 310 km/h (around 193 mph). Other notable mechanical changes included reworked suspension geometry and wider tires for better handling and braking performance.
The 512 M saw its debut in the 1971 racing season, where it competed in iconic endurance events such as the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the World Sportscar Championship. Unfortunately for Ferrari, by the time the 512 M was fully developed, Porsche’s 917 had already cemented its dominance. Though Ferrari’s car was competitive, it couldn’t consistently beat the 917 on the track. Drivers like Jacky Ickx piloted the 512 M, and while they managed some strong performances—such as breaking a Formula 1 lap record during testing—the Ferrari couldn’t fully overcome Porsche’s technological edge.
Despite not achieving the level of success Ferrari had hoped for, the 512 M remains an iconic sports car of the era, both for its beautiful design and its role in the fierce Ferrari-Porsche rivalry. Today, surviving 512 M models are highly sought after by collectors and regularly compete in historic racing events, maintaining Ferrari’s legacy of endurance racing excellence.
