It was designed to replace the smaller 456; its larger size makes it a true 4-seater with adequate space in the rear seats for adults.

The design, especially the large side scallops and the headlights, pays homage to the 375 MM built in 1954, which director Roberto Rossellini commissioned for his wife, Ingrid Bergman.

Its space frame, manufactured in collaboration with Alcoa, is made from extrusions and castings of the material, and the aluminium body is then welded on.

[7][8] The body of the 612 was produced at Ferrari's Carrozzeria Scaglietti plant, the former home of the car's namesake coachbuilder in Modena, Italy.

In 2007 Ferrari announced the availability of the SuperFast robotic (F1) gearbox and a new electro-chromatic glass roof that could tint and lighten at the push of a button for the 612.

In early 2008, at the Geneva Car Show, Ferrari unveiled the One-To-One (OTO) personalization program and thereafter the 612 was only available through this special-order process.

Standard equipment included 19-inch forged aluminium wheels, black chrome exhaust tips, the automated manual F1 transmission, three-position electrochromic glass roof, start/stop ignition button on the steering wheel, Bose infotainment system and a two-tone paint.

Standard equipment included the HGTC package, Blu Cornes paint scheme, a carbon fibre filler cap, and mesh grille inserts in the front and rear fascias.

[16] The 612 Kappa is a one-off special built by Pininfarina[17] for Peter S. Kalikow, former chairman of the New York Metropolitan Transport Authority, and a renowned Ferrari collector, and unveiled at the Villa d'Este Concours d'Elegance on April 23, 2006.

The Kappa stands out from the standard 612 through the use of multiple unique elements, such as a functional hood scoop on the engine cover lined with polished aluminium, added air vents near the front wheels for improved downforce, the rear taillights found on the Ferrari Enzo along with the F430, personalised door handles containing the initials of the owner, chromed headlight bezels, and a sunroof that utilises electrochromic glass to vary the amount of opacity in the glass.

The car features folding back seats and a tailgate in order for easy entry and exit of the passengers.

Giugiaro wanted a Ferrari that he could easily use with his family and which allowed easy entry and exit of passengers from the rear of the car.