STORY OF THE DAY: NART’s 512 M Reaches the Le Mans Podium

Sam Posey and Tony Adamowicz finished third overall in North American Racing Team Ferrari 512 M number 12 at the 1971 24 Hours of Le Mans. They completed 346 laps behind two factory Porsche 917s, earning Ferrari’s best result in a race run at record speed.

The private crew survived a contest that eliminated many comparable five-litre prototypes. They could not match the leading Porsches, but consistent running and effective team preparation converted the 512 M’s speed into a podium, demonstrating the value of Luigi Chinetti’s experienced NART operation.

The 512 M was the extensively revised form of the 512 S, retaining a five-litre V12 and mid-engined chassis while gaining lighter, sharper and more aerodynamically efficient bodywork. The modifications improved stability and serviceability, helping private teams remain competitive after the factory reduced direct involvement.

Posey and Adamowicz were versatile Americans with backgrounds spanning single-seaters, Trans-Am and sports cars. Posey brought analytical precision; Adamowicz contributed extensive endurance and development experience. Their measured partnership produced the most important Le Mans result achieved by a 512 M.