Ferrari 712 Can Am
The need for very high torque to cope with the torturous tracks of the Can Am series saw Ferrari build its biggest ever engine at around seven litres.
This model was a one-off, developed from a modified 512 M which was fitted with the new engine at the factory.
The car won on its debut at the Imola Interserie race on May 2 1971 with Merzario at the wheel. Andretti later came home fourth, in the American series at Watkins Glen.
Ferrari 712 Can Am Technical Specifications
Year of Manufacture – 1971
| ENGINE | ||
| type | rear, longitudinal 60° V12 | |
| bore/stroke | 92 x 86 mm | |
| unitary displacement | 571.69 cc | |
| total displacement | 6860.33 cc | |
| compression ratio | 11,4:1 | |
| maximum power | 500 kW (680 hp) at 7000 rpm | |
| power per litre | 99 hp/l | |
| maximum torque | – | |
| valve actuation | twin overhead camshafts per bank, four valves per cylinder | |
| fuel feed | Lucas indirect injection | |
| ignition | twin spark plugs per cylinder, two coils | |
| lubrication | dry sump | |
| clutch | multi-plate | |
| CHASSIS | ||
| frame | tubular steel with riveted aluminium panels | |
| front suspension | independent, unequal-length wishbones, coil springs, telescopic shock absorbers, anti-roll bar | |
| rear suspension | independent, unequal-length wishbones, coil springs, telescopic shock absorbers, anti-roll bar | |
| brakes | discs | |
| transmission | 4-speed + reverse | |
| steering | rack-and-pinion | |
| fuel tank | capacity 270 litres | |
| front tyres | 4.90-13.90-15 | |
| rear tyres | 6.00-15.50-15 | |
| BODYWORK | ||
| type | two-seater spider | |
| length | – | |
| width | – | |
| height | – | |
| wheelbase | 2400 mm | |
| front track | 1518 mm | |
| rear track | 1510 mm | |
| weight | 826 kg (with liquids) | |
| PERFORMANCE | ||
| top speed | – | |
| acceleration 0-100 km/h | – | |
| 0-400 m | – | |
| 0-1000 m | – | |