The descriptions of the Classic Cars in the Directory were partly generated or supplemented with the help of artificial intelligence (AI). The content may occasionally not always be entirely accurate or factually correct despite careful checking.
The Ferrari 312 PB, released in 1972, is one of the most iconic cars produced by the Italian automaker, Ferrari. The car was born out of a need to compete in the World Sportscar Championship, as Ferrari wanted to dominate the series with a new car that was more powerful than their previous offerings. The 312 PB was a sleek, aerodynamic machine that was built to be the fastest car on the track, and it certainly delivered on that promise.
The 312 PB was powered by a flat-12 engine, which was an unconventional setup at the time, but one that Ferrari had been experimenting with for a while. The engine was capable of producing an astounding 450 horsepower, which allowed the car to reach a top speed of over 220 mph. The engine was mated to a five-speed manual transmission that allowed for lightning fast shifts, making the car incredibly nimble on the track.
The exterior of the 312 PB was designed with aerodynamics in mind, as Ferrari wanted the car to be as fast as possible. The car had a sleek, low profile that helped it slice through the air with ease. The car's nose was pointed, with a flat front that minimized drag. The side skirts on the car were also designed to keep the air flowing smoothly around the car, reducing turbulence and drag.
The 312 PB featured a double-wishbone suspension setup at the front and rear, which gave the car incredible handling characteristics. The car's chassis was made from lightweight aluminum, which helped to keep the car's weight down and improve its handling even further. The brakes on the car were also top-of-the-line, as Ferrari wanted to be sure that the car could stop on a dime when needed.
Inside the car, the driver was treated to a minimalist setup that was focused on performance. The car had a simple dash that included only the necessary gauges, such as speedometer and rev counter. The steering wheel was small and ergonomic, allowing for quick and precise movements. The driver's seat was snug and supportive, helping to keep the driver in place during high-speed cornering.
Overall, the Ferrari 312 PB was an incredible machine that was designed purely for speed and performance. With its flat-12 engine, aerodynamic design, and lightweight construction, the car was a force to be reckoned with on the track. Today, the 312 PB remains a sought-after piece of automotive history, and it is still considered one of the greatest racing cars of all time.
Milestones
- 1971: Ferrari began development of the 312 PB to compete in the World Sportscar Championship - 1972: The Ferrari 312 PB made its debut at the 24 Hours of Daytona, finishing 1st and 2nd - 1972: The 312 PB won every race in the World Sportscar Championship, securing the championship title for Ferrari - 1973: The 312 PB continued to dominate the World Sportscar Championship, winning every race except for one - 1973: Ferrari announced they would no longer compete in the World Sportscar Championship, marking the end of the 312 PB's racing career.Technical
- Engine: 3.0-liter V12 - Power output: 450 hp - Transmission: 5-speed manual - Chassis: Aluminum monocoque - Suspension: Double-wishbone front and rear - Brakes: Disc brakes all around - Weight: 745 kg (1,642 lb) - Top speed: 335 km/h (208 mph) - Fuel capacity: 150 liters - Wheelbase: 2,400 mm (94.5 in) - Length: 4,250 mm (167.3 in) - Width: 1,960 mm (77.2 in) - Height: 850 mm (33.5 in)CLASSIC CAR MATCHER