To maintain the traditional, incredibly high standard of engine sound whilst simultaneously introducing a GPF (Gasoline Particulate Filter), a new exhaust tailpipe was added. This design solution reinstates medium-high frequency sound. In order to deliver excellent acoustics, performance and aesthetics, the exhaust tailpipes are visible to underscore their function and the car’s track-inspired character. The addition of a second pair of resonators enhances the engine’s more noble combustion order harmonics, creating the perfect melding of the sound from the exhaust and from the intake system.

In-depth cutting-edge aerodynamic research has produced solutions that are extreme in form, featuring profiles that are unprecedented for a road-legal car. From the new air ducts to a distinctly unconventional tail and exhaust configuration and even the patented design of the rear screen and front bumper, every modification is a faithful expression of Ferrari's core belief that form must always follow function.

To compensate for the impact of the removal of the vortex generators of the 812 Competizione, the 812 Competizione A hosts a bridge element which effectively deflects the flow. The presence of that bridge allowed the increase in drag to be reduced: aerodynamically, the bridge behaves indeed like a wing.

Comfort in the open configuration is ensured by the introduction of a flap integrated into the windscreen header rail which extends the bubble that covers the cockpit. Two aerodynamic apertures have been created between the two buttresses to manage the flow entering over the side windows. The result of this strategy is twofold because, aside from improving comfort, it also increases aerodynamic efficiency even when the top is open.

The brutal power unleashed by the powertrain is paired with new vehicle dynamics controls to ensure that the performance can be fully exploited and to guarantee maximum fun behind the wheel. Most distinctive of these solutions is the adoption of independent steering on all four wheels. This enhances the feeling of agility and precision when cornering as well as providing unparalleled responsiveness. Another noteworthy achievement is the development work undertaken to reduce the car's overall weight, particularly the extensive use of carbon fibre. Lastly, the new model premieres version 7.0 of the renowned Side Slip Control vehicle dynamics system.

The 812 Competizione A provided the Ferrari Styling Centre with the opportunity to use the modifications required for the rear of the car to create a truly unforgettable architecture. The flying buttress concept, which has long been a much-loved part of Ferrari tradition, harmonises effortlessly with the arrow theme of the front created by the blade and lends a sense of forward thrust to the car’s body, but also gives it a completely different connotation with regard to the 812 Competizione.

The car's centre of gravity appears lower not only because of the roof and wraparound windscreen, but also because the flying buttresses are lower than in the 812 Competizione. The targa top is made of carbon-fibre and can be stowed in a compartment with the same design shape as the targa itself.

With the targa top stowed, the roll bars partly jut out above the rest of the bodywork but become secondary visual elements and so do not compromise the effect created by the flying buttresses. Being able to stow the top at any time means the car can be enjoyed to the fullest, whatever the weather.

The interior architecture very much reflects that of the 812 Superfast, retaining the main dash and door panel interfaces and volumes, including the signature diapason motif. The new door panel has been redesigned to reduce weight and, combined with the introduction of the H-gate theme on the tunnel, lends the cockpit a sportier, more modern edge that reflects the car’s racing spirit.