Manual is back: Ferrari introduces the V12-powered 12Cilindri Manuale
Ferrari has introduced the limited-edition 12Cilindri Manuale, pairing its naturally aspirated V12 with an innovative Manuale by-wire system that revives the engagement of manual driving without sacrificing modern dual-clutch performance.
Ferrari has unveiled the 12Cilindri Manuale, a limited-edition version of its flagship front-engine grand tourer that brings the manual driving experience in a thoroughly modern form. Limited to just 1,499 units worldwide, the new model combines the Italian marque's naturally aspirated 6.5-litre V12 engine with an all-new Manuale by-wire system that recreates the feel of a traditional manual transmission while retaining the mechanical efficiency and performance of Ferrari's eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox.
Rather than developing a conventional manual transmission, Ferrari has engineered a completely new control architecture that blends electronics with mechanical feedback. The company says the aim is to offer the engagement of a classic Ferrari manual without sacrificing the speed, precision and everyday usability of its modern dual-clutch transmission.
A modern interpretation of the classic Ferrari manual
The biggest talking point is Ferrari's new Manuale by-wire system, developed entirely in-house at Maranello. Unlike a traditional manual gearbox, the car retains the proven eight-speed dual-clutch transmission but replaces the familiar paddle shifters with a mechanical gear lever and a clutch-by-wire pedal.
The system consists of a newly designed gear selector, a clutch pedal, revised pedal box, dedicated control electronics and updated transmission software. Together, they recreate the tactile sensation of shifting gears manually while electronically controlling the dual-clutch transmission underneath.
The gear lever itself uses precision-machined mechanical components with advanced kinematic mechanisms that reproduce the resistance, clicks and load variations associated with Ferrari's classic gated manual gearboxes. Two Hall-effect sensors monitor lever movement while a locking mechanism prevents incorrect gear engagement if the clutch isn't pressed or an inappropriate gear is selected.
Ferrari says even the sound produced by the movement of the gear lever has been specifically engineered to enhance the mechanical feel.
Three pedals return
Complementing the gear lever is a newly developed clutch-by-wire pedal, giving the Ferrari 12Cilindri Manuale a traditional three-pedal layout.
Instead of mechanically actuating a clutch, the pedal measures the driver's input using position sensors before digitally controlling the dual-clutch transmission. Ferrari has carefully calibrated the pedal's resistance using springs, cams and rollers to mimic the load progression of conventional manual gearboxes.
The company says drivers who perfectly synchronise clutch and throttle inputs will enjoy smooth gear changes, while poor timing can lead to jerky shifts or even engine stalls—just like in a traditional manual sports car.
Ferrari has also programmed the system to allow enthusiasts to perform classic driving techniques such as heel-and-toe downshifts.
Manual or automatic, the choice is yours
Unlike classic manual Ferraris, the 12Cilindri Manuale can also be driven in fully automatic mode.
Drivers can use the gear lever and clutch across the first six forward gears and reverse, or switch to automatic mode where the eight-speed dual-clutch transmission resumes normal operation.
Even in automatic mode, the gear lever can be used to pre-select gears, with the instrument cluster previewing how engine speed will change.
Ferrari has also removed the steering-wheel-mounted shift paddles entirely, making the gear lever and clutch the centrepiece of the driving experience.
Naturally aspirated V12 remains unchanged
Power continues to come from Ferrari's naturally aspirated 6.5-litre V12, one of the last of its kind in the automotive world.
The engine produces:
- 830bhp at 9,250rpm
- 678Nm of torque at 7,250rpm
- 9,500rpm redline
The powertrain itself remains mechanically unchanged, with Ferrari focusing its engineering efforts on the driver interface rather than altering the engine or transmission hardware.
Performance
Despite introducing a manual driving interface, performance remains virtually unchanged.
Ferrari 12Cilindri Manuale performance figures:
- Engine: 6.5-litre naturally aspirated V12
- Power: 830hp
- Torque: 678Nm
- Transmission: 8-speed dual-clutch with Manuale by-wire controls
- 0–100kmph: 2.9 seconds
- 0–200kmh: Under 7.9 seconds
- Top speed: Over 340kmph
The coupe weighs 1,565 kg (dry) and has a near-perfect 48.4:51.6 front-to-rear weight distribution.
Interior inspired by Ferrari's iconic gated manuals
Inside, Ferrari has redesigned the centre console around the new gear lever.
The aluminium shift gate references Ferrari's iconic six-speed manuals, complete with reverse positioned at the upper left. A round anodised aluminium gear knob features illuminated graphics displaying the selected gear and whether the car is operating in manual or automatic mode.
The centre tunnel has also been redesigned for improved ergonomics, while the iconic metal gate is integrated into a sculpted aluminium structure inspired by a tuning fork.
The cabin continues to offer Ferrari's latest digital cockpit technology but now places greater emphasis on physical interaction between driver and machine.
Tailor made exclusivity
Ferrari is positioning the 12Cilindri Manuale as more than just another variant.
Every example will feature exclusive Tailor Made specifications, including:
- Laser-etched side badges
- Special embossed Scudetto
- Dedicated five-spoke forged alloy wheels
- Pinstripe detailing inspired by the legendary Ferrari 365 GTB4 Daytona
- Bespoke aluminium or carbon-fibre door sills
- Exclusive leather and Alcantara upholstery
- Seats featuring six vertical grooves symbolising the six forward gears
Customers can also choose from 25 historic Ferrari colours, including launch shade Rosso Rubino, alongside classics such as Argento Nrburgring, Nero Daytona, Rosso Dino, Giallo Montecarlo, Verde Zeltweg, Blu Pozzi and Bianco Mille Miglia.
Why 1,499 units?
Production is limited to 1,499 cars, a number chosen to honour Ferrari's very first V12 engine introduced in 1947, which displaced 1,499 cc.
Ferrari says the model has been developed specifically for long-time enthusiasts of its front-engined V12 berlinettas who desire a more physical and involving driving experience.
Seven-year maintenance included
Like the rest of Ferrari's current lineup, the 12Cilindri Manuale comes with Ferrari's seven-year Genuine Maintenance programme.
The package includes scheduled servicing every 20,000km or annually, genuine Ferrari parts, factory-trained technicians and comprehensive diagnostic checks across Ferrari's global dealer network.
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Ferrari has unveiled the 12Cilindri Manuale, a limited-edition version of its flagship front-engine grand tourer that brings the manual driving experience in a thoroughly modern form. Limited to just 1,499 units worldwide, the new model combines the Italian marque's naturally aspirated 6.5-litre V12 engine with an all-new Manuale by-wire system that recreates the feel of a traditional manual transmission while retaining the mechanical efficiency and performance of Ferrari's eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox.
Rather than developing a conventional manual transmission, Ferrari has engineered a completely new control architecture that blends electronics with mechanical feedback. The company says the aim is to offer the engagement of a classic Ferrari manual without sacrificing the speed, precision and everyday usability of its modern dual-clutch transmission.
A modern interpretation of the classic Ferrari manual
The biggest talking point is Ferrari's new Manuale by-wire system, developed entirely in-house at Maranello. Unlike a traditional manual gearbox, the car retains the proven eight-speed dual-clutch transmission but replaces the familiar paddle shifters with a mechanical gear lever and a clutch-by-wire pedal.
The system consists of a newly designed gear selector, a clutch pedal, revised pedal box, dedicated control electronics and updated transmission software. Together, they recreate the tactile sensation of shifting gears manually while electronically controlling the dual-clutch transmission underneath.
The gear lever itself uses precision-machined mechanical components with advanced kinematic mechanisms that reproduce the resistance, clicks and load variations associated with Ferrari's classic gated manual gearboxes. Two Hall-effect sensors monitor lever movement while a locking mechanism prevents incorrect gear engagement if the clutch isn't pressed or an inappropriate gear is selected.
Ferrari says even the sound produced by the movement of the gear lever has been specifically engineered to enhance the mechanical feel.
Three pedals return
Complementing the gear lever is a newly developed clutch-by-wire pedal, giving the Ferrari 12Cilindri Manuale a traditional three-pedal layout.
Instead of mechanically actuating a clutch, the pedal measures the driver's input using position sensors before digitally controlling the dual-clutch transmission. Ferrari has carefully calibrated the pedal's resistance using springs, cams and rollers to mimic the load progression of conventional manual gearboxes.
The company says drivers who perfectly synchronise clutch and throttle inputs will enjoy smooth gear changes, while poor timing can lead to jerky shifts or even engine stalls—just like in a traditional manual sports car.
Ferrari has also programmed the system to allow enthusiasts to perform classic driving techniques such as heel-and-toe downshifts.
Manual or automatic, the choice is yours
Unlike classic manual Ferraris, the 12Cilindri Manuale can also be driven in fully automatic mode.
Drivers can use the gear lever and clutch across the first six forward gears and reverse, or switch to automatic mode where the eight-speed dual-clutch transmission resumes normal operation.
Even in automatic mode, the gear lever can be used to pre-select gears, with the instrument cluster previewing how engine speed will change.
Ferrari has also removed the steering-wheel-mounted shift paddles entirely, making the gear lever and clutch the centrepiece of the driving experience.
Naturally aspirated V12 remains unchanged
Power continues to come from Ferrari's naturally aspirated 6.5-litre V12, one of the last of its kind in the automotive world.
The engine produces:
- 830bhp at 9,250rpm
- 678Nm of torque at 7,250rpm
- 9,500rpm redline
The powertrain itself remains mechanically unchanged, with Ferrari focusing its engineering efforts on the driver interface rather than altering the engine or transmission hardware.
Performance
Despite introducing a manual driving interface, performance remains virtually unchanged.
Ferrari 12Cilindri Manuale performance figures:
- Engine: 6.5-litre naturally aspirated V12
- Power: 830hp
- Torque: 678Nm
- Transmission: 8-speed dual-clutch with Manuale by-wire controls
- 0–100kmph: 2.9 seconds
- 0–200kmh: Under 7.9 seconds
- Top speed: Over 340kmph
The coupe weighs 1,565 kg (dry) and has a near-perfect 48.4:51.6 front-to-rear weight distribution.
Interior inspired by Ferrari's iconic gated manuals
Inside, Ferrari has redesigned the centre console around the new gear lever.
The aluminium shift gate references Ferrari's iconic six-speed manuals, complete with reverse positioned at the upper left. A round anodised aluminium gear knob features illuminated graphics displaying the selected gear and whether the car is operating in manual or automatic mode.
The centre tunnel has also been redesigned for improved ergonomics, while the iconic metal gate is integrated into a sculpted aluminium structure inspired by a tuning fork.
The cabin continues to offer Ferrari's latest digital cockpit technology but now places greater emphasis on physical interaction between driver and machine.
Tailor made exclusivity
Ferrari is positioning the 12Cilindri Manuale as more than just another variant.
Every example will feature exclusive Tailor Made specifications, including:
- Laser-etched side badges
- Special embossed Scudetto
- Dedicated five-spoke forged alloy wheels
- Pinstripe detailing inspired by the legendary Ferrari 365 GTB4 Daytona
- Bespoke aluminium or carbon-fibre door sills
- Exclusive leather and Alcantara upholstery
- Seats featuring six vertical grooves symbolising the six forward gears
Customers can also choose from 25 historic Ferrari colours, including launch shade Rosso Rubino, alongside classics such as Argento Nrburgring, Nero Daytona, Rosso Dino, Giallo Montecarlo, Verde Zeltweg, Blu Pozzi and Bianco Mille Miglia.
Why 1,499 units?
Production is limited to 1,499 cars, a number chosen to honour Ferrari's very first V12 engine introduced in 1947, which displaced 1,499 cc.
Ferrari says the model has been developed specifically for long-time enthusiasts of its front-engined V12 berlinettas who desire a more physical and involving driving experience.
Seven-year maintenance included
Like the rest of Ferrari's current lineup, the 12Cilindri Manuale comes with Ferrari's seven-year Genuine Maintenance programme.
The package includes scheduled servicing every 20,000km or annually, genuine Ferrari parts, factory-trained technicians and comprehensive diagnostic checks across Ferrari's global dealer network.
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