Introducing the all-new Ferrari 12 Cilindri, the highly anticipated successor to the 812, which could mark the end of an era for the brand.
Ferrari has introduced a new GT car to succeed the 812 Superfast, named the 12 Cilindri. In an era dominated by turbocharging and hybridisation, Ferrari remains committed to a powerful, naturally aspirated V12. However, with changing regulations, this could be one of the last front-engined 12-cylinder Ferraris available.
New Design
At first glance, you might not even recognise the 12 Cilindri as a Ferrari, as it bears little resemblance to the 812 Superfast it replaces. Its design is focused on being modern and futuristic, rather than nostalgic.
However, sharp-eyed Ferrari enthusiasts will notice some retro design elements. The way the headlights wrap around the front bumper is reminiscent of the 1960s 365 Daytona, and the black trim on the bonnet echoes that car as well. The LED daytime running lights protrude like the chrome bumpers on classic Ferraris.
The windscreen has been pushed back as far as possible to accommodate the V12 engine under the bonnet, and the rear pillars feature an exaggerated design that sweeps behind the windows and curves into the roof.
However, the most striking view is from the rear. The 12 Cilindri sports completely flat taillights, with no trace of the roundness seen on the SF90, and even the quad tailpipes are rectangular.
A drop-top Spider version is also available for those seeking wind-in-the-hair excitement. Unlike Ferrari's usual practice of keeping convertible versions under wraps for a few months, this one was unveiled right away. It looks exactly as you'd expect—a 12 Cilindri coupe with a folding metal roof.
V12 engine
Ferrari has opted for a large, naturally aspirated V12 engine in the 12 Cilindri, a name that directly translates to "12 cylinders."
With emissions regulations becoming increasingly strict, this might be one of the last front-engined V12 Ferraris, so it has to be exceptional.
It certainly starts strong, as the engine is derived from the high-revving 6.5-liter V12 found in the 812 Superfast. This means it benefits from lighter internal components and the advanced intake manifolds used in the 812 Competizione.
As a result, the new 12 Cilindri produces 830 hp and 678 Nm of torque, matching the power output of the 812 Competizione. However, the upcoming Aston Martin Vanquish will offer 835 hp and 1,000 Nm of torque from its V12 engine.
So, what does this mean for performance? Ferrari claims the 12 Cilindri will accelerate from 0-60 mph in 2.9 seconds, identical to the 812 Competizione and over half a second faster than the Aston Martin DB12. It also boasts a top speed exceeding 211 mph.
Chassis And Suspension
It may house a familiar engine up front, but the new Ferrari 12 Cilindri is entirely redesigned beneath the surface.
Like the 812, the chassis is crafted entirely from aluminium, but the design has been significantly reworked. Ferrari has developed a new method for casting the shock towers, making them both more rigid and lighter. The company claims this new car weighs 1,560 kg—though that figure is without fluids, so it should be taken with a grain of salt.
What’s indisputable, however, is that the new chassis is 15% more rigid than the 812’s, enhancing track performance and handling.
Interior
The interior of the new 12 Cilindri closely resembles that of the Ferrari Purosangue SUV, minus the rear seats, of course.
It features a similar driver-focused dashboard design, with the passenger also getting their own display and touchscreen—perfect for commenting on your speed. A large central screen includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
In addition to the tech, the cabin is draped in Alcantara, and you can customise the leather and stitching to your heart's content.
To learn more on the exciting new release from Ferrari, click through to watch our official partner - SHMEE150's recent video where Tim gets up and personal to the new Berlinetta