In the world of high-performance automotive engineering, continuous iteration is the standard. Yet, the true lineage of a legendary marque is best understood not in isolation, but by placing its historical origins directly alongside its modern pinnacle.
This summer, the Car Collection of H.S.H. the Prince of Monaco (Collection des Automobiles de S.A.S. le Prince de Monaco) presents "D’hier à aujourd’hui" ("From Yesterday to Today"), a temporary exhibition examining the evolution of automotive design and engineering across the decades. The centerpiece of the current display is an extraordinary pairing on loan from the personal collection of Monégasque Formula 1 driver Charles Leclerc.
The exhibition features two distinct epochs in Maranello’s history placed side by side. On one side stands the iconic 1960s Ferrari 275 GTB, a landmark statement of mid-century Italian design defined by its timeless lines and naturally aspirated V12 engine. On the other stands the contemporary Ferrari 812 Competizione, one of the most exclusive road-going models ever produced by the manufacturer, boasting an 830-horsepower V12 engine capable of reaching 9,500 rpm - the culmination of more than 70 years of track-derived innovation.
By making these vehicles accessible to the public, Leclerc offers an insightful bridge between heritage and modernity. In an era increasingly defined by electrification and digital abstraction, the display serves as a compelling reminder of the mechanical artistry and visceral appeal that continue to define the V12 tradition.
Photo Credits: Car Collection of H.S.H. the Prince of Monaco Instagram