Ferrari 12Cilindri: Powerhouse Perfection

Ferrari has once again turned a blind eye to the electrification trends, just as it did with the Purosangue SUV, opting instead for a magnificent naturally aspirated V12 engine in its latest luxury coupé. This time, the name says it all: 12Cilindri.

It’s hard not to spot visual cues reminiscent of historic Ferrari models, especially the iconic black 365 GTS 4 Daytona Spyder—famous as Don Johnson’s ride in Miami Vice. The new 12Cilindri, available as both a coupe and convertible, has grown to a striking 4.73 meters long, and its design is sure to turn heads. With a proportionally long hood and a rearward cabin, the silhouette is pure Ferrari. Up front, the aggressive headlight design is unique, giving the car a distinct character, even if it vaguely recalls the Disney Beagle Boys more than a typical Ferrari design. At the back, the narrow LED light strips add a sleek touch, though the complex design of the trunk and integrated spoiler is unconventional for Ferrari.

The Sophisticated Interior is Pure Ferrari DNA

Inside, the cabin is the familiar Ferrari blend of luxury and sport, featuring soft leather sports seats, carbon fiber, and Alcantara everywhere you look. The dashboard is home to three digital displays—one for the driver, one for the passenger, and a central control unit.

However, Ferrari continues to skip the practical head-up display that competitors offer. The steering wheel feels great in hand and transfers every bit of road feedback perfectly, but the touch controls lag behind the competition in terms of usability.

Uncompromising V12 Brilliance

Where Ferrari truly shines is under the hood. Fans of classic engine tech can rejoice: no hybrid assistance, no short-term boost, no 48-volt electrical system, and not even a turbo. Just pure, naturally aspirated V12 power. While many brands are downsizing, Ferrari sticks with a massive 6.5-liter engine, split across 12 cylinders.

This F140-HD engine delivers a jaw-dropping 611 kW (830 PS), making it the most powerful series-production V12 Ferrari has ever built. The engine revs up to 9,500 RPM, and while the torque figure of 678 Nm may seem modest compared to today’s turbocharged or electric engines, the delivery is nothing short of thrilling.

A Powerboat for the Road

The sensation of driving this car is an experience like no other. The V12 roars to life, and its thrust will press you firmly into the supple leather seats. Though the peak torque arrives at a high 7,250 RPM, the surge of power is relentless. On uneven roads, the nearly 1.7-ton Ferrari might benefit from all-wheel drive, as rear-wheel drive alone can struggle to harness all that power.

The eight-speed dual-clutch transmission works hard to deliver the performance, but with a weight-to-power ratio of less than two kilograms per horsepower, it’s a monumental challenge. With the engine set far back in the chassis, the weight distribution favors the rear at 48:52, making the steering razor-sharp and perfect for grand touring through winding mountain roads. Weekend getaways to the lakes of Northern Italy are within reach, as the 270-liter trunk and rear shelf can easily accommodate a stylish luggage set.

The Ultimate Weekend Escape Machine

Of course, this Ferrari’s performance stats make for great dinner conversation. The 12Cilindri rockets from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.9 seconds, and it reaches 200 km/h in under eight seconds, with a top speed exceeding 340 km/h. But the real thrill isn’t just the raw numbers—it’s how the Ferrari drives.

It’s all about the connection between driver and machine, the feedback through the steering, and the intoxicating wail of the V12 as it approaches redline. While Ferrari lists the starting price at a mind-blowing €382,000, the sheer driving pleasure might just justify the cost.