In an attempt to produce the most competitive sportscar possible, Ferrari jumped back and forth between the two classes set after the 1968 rule changes by the sport's governing body.

The 512 is a beautiful car. It is also important because, without this car as a competitor, the 917 would not have much of a legacy. You need a worthy competitor to beat-the 512 was certainly that.
Good article about a great era.

Yes, Beautiful Car! I have 1 picture of a 612 Can-Am with High-mounted wing, makes the 512 look a little like an ugly duckling until they started sticking Canards on it:(. Circa 68/69.

You said it, Obster...to be is to be in opposition. The 917's success (at least in its coupe iteration) is much more meaningful in retrospect because it came against such a formidable adversary. In fact, even in their time, these excellent cars from Ferrari and Porsche each forced the other to make constant improvements... competition, as the saying goes, improves the breed. I wish the nefarious forces of spec racing would stop and think about that sort of thing.