Chris Harris on Cars: Raw road test of the sensational Ferrari 12 Cilindri
The Ferrari 12Cilindri is Ferrari’s latest front-engine, rear-wheel-drive grand tourer, unveiled in 2024 to celebrate 70 years of the brand in the US. It stands out as a modern tribute to Ferrari’s classic V12 heritage, blending cutting-edge engineering with unmistakable Italian design and performance pedigree.
Chris Harris on Cars: Raw road test of the sensational Ferrari 12 Cilindri
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At its heart is a 6.5-litre naturally aspirated V12 engine, producing 830 PS (819 hp) at a soaring 9,250 rpm and 678 Nm of torque at 7,250 rpm. This engine, derived from the 812 Competizione, features advanced materials like titanium con rods and lightweight aluminum pistons, along with F1-inspired sliding finger followers to reduce friction and enhance performance. The result is a car that not only delivers blistering acceleration—0–100 km/h in 2.9 seconds and 0–200 km/h in 7.9 seconds—but also a spine-tingling V12 soundtrack, especially at high revs.

The 12Cilindri’s chassis is all-aluminum, about 20 mm shorter and 15% stiffer than its predecessor, the 812 Superfast, contributing to sharper handling and increased agility. It features active and passive aerodynamic elements, including an adaptive rear spoiler that can tilt up to 10 degrees to generate additional downforce or act as an aero brake at speed. Four-wheel steering and a sophisticated brake-by-wire system further enhance its dynamic capabilities.

Inside, the cabin is both luxurious and high-tech, echoing the design language of the Ferrari Purosangue SUV. The driver gets a 15.6-inch digital display, while the passenger has their own 8.8-inch screen, and a centrally mounted 10.25-inch touchscreen handles infotainment. Standard features include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the interior is finished with premium materials, a glass roof, and advanced connectivity.

The Ferrari 12Cilindri is available as both a Berlinetta coupe and a Spider convertible, offering versatility for grand touring or open-air driving. It’s positioned as one of the last naturally aspirated V12 grand tourers in an era moving rapidly toward electrification, making it a true collector’s piece and a celebration of Ferrari’s engineering legacy. The model has already been recognized for its design excellence, winning the Compasso d’Oro industrial design award in 2025.

With its blend of raw performance, technological innovation, and classic Ferrari soul, the 12Cilindri is a landmark model that appeals to enthusiasts and collectors alike, continuing the V12 tradition with modern flair and uncompromising quality.

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