Watch LaFerrari test around the ‘Ring

At the 2012 Beijing Motor Show, Ferrari CEO Amadeo Felisa told TopGear.com that they didn't "like the idea of an electric Ferrari because one of our main characteristics is the sound of the engine."

We couldn't agree more, and though you don't require extra proof of this, some is provided by this little clip we stumbled across. It's spy footage taken from the Nürburgring (stop your collective groaning) of Ferrari's latest wündercar, the LaFerrari, undergoing a light workout. And it sounds rather delightful.

Fresh from whupping the old Enzo around Fiorano - the LaFerrari is five seconds a lap quicker than the old girl around the circuit - work at the Nürburgring continues.

A perfect moment to remind you then, of the LaFerrari's vital stats: it's packing a mid-mounted 6.3-litre V12 (an evolution of the F12's), hooked up to a dual-clutch gearbox and electric motor, together with a 120-cell, 60kg lithium ion battery pack packaged under the seats in Kevlar casing.

That V12 spins to 9,250rpm and produces 790bhp and 663lb ft of torque, while the motor adds another 160bhp. It'll go from 0-62mph in less than three seconds, hit 124mph in less than seven, sail to 186mph in 15 seconds, and top out at over 217mph. Fast, then. And fast enough to make many nice noises you will like. Watch the video and listen for yourself.

LaFerrari vs McLaren P1 vs Porsche 918 Spyder