Ferrari 12Cilindri - The V12 isn't dead

Just as many of us were starting to come to terms with the fact that the V12 engine belongs in the history books, Ferrari announced a new berlinetta with a naturally aspirated V12 engine as the Miami Grand Prix race weekend was about to commence.

The new Ferrari 12Cilindri (and the convertible version 12Cilindri Spider), according to Ferrari, combines an "unparalleled, thrilling driving experience with sophistication and modern design". Taking inspiration from Gran Turismo models from the 50s and 60s, the new car looks to extend the life of the V12 sports car. So, what's interesting about this car besides the V12?

Engine and Performance

The 12Cilindri comes packed with a new version of Ferrari's acclaimed naturally aspirated V12 engine with that melodious exhaust note Ferrari fans have come to love over the years. Delivering up to 830cv and 678Nm of torque, it revs to a max of 9500rpm. The high rpm was achieved through the dedicated work of the engineers to reduce engine components' weight and inertia by using titanium con rods that offer 40% savings in rotating mass when compared to steel. An aluminum alloy was used for the pistons in addition to adopting a rebalanced crankshaft for further weight reduction.

A new exhaust system is in place to allow compliance with current emissions requirements. While you may have been holding your breath after reading the last sentence, you'll be happy to note that Ferrari claims the car's exhaust has the signature Ferrari sound you'd expect from a car powered by a V12 engine.

On transmission duty is an eight-speed DCT similar to what's available in the SF90 Stradale, delivering 5% shorter gear ratios in the lower gears and a 12% increase in torque at the wheels when compared to V12 applications of the past. All these get you a 0-62 mph time of 2.7 seconds and a top speed of 211mph.

Exterior

With Flovio Manzoni in charge, the Ferrari Styling Center design team took a radical approach to the styling of the new car when compared to previous Ferrari V12s. The car is equipped with a sleek hood that includes front wings with a clean look and only two vents for cooling the engine bay. Another obvious departure from previous V12s is the single wraparound band the headlights are integrated into. Rear spoilers are also omitted, with the designers opting for two active flaps that are integrated with the rear screen.

Interior

The interior of the 12Cilindri is split into three clearly defined levels, and there's an obvious emphasis on sustainability with the generous use of Alcantara with 65% recycled polyester. The styling is in line with the dual-cockpit concept seen in the Ferrari Roma and Purosangue.

New in the 12Cilindri is a Human Machine Interface with three displays that elevate the driving experience in the car. The main functions can be configured using the 10.25-inch capacitive touchscreen, which is accessible to both the driver and passenger. In addition, a 15.6-inch driver display shows the dynamics and driving information necessary for the driver to be fully informed. If you usually drive with a companion who likes to see this information, you'll be happy to hear that Ferrari included an 8.8-inch display for the passenger so your companion won't feel left out.

Apple Carplay and Android Auto are included as standard, along with a wireless charging mat in the central tunnel (also standard). Optional features include a high-end audio system built in collaboration with Burmester. It includes 15 speakers and offers 1600W, which should cover all your audiophile needs.

With exciting performance numbers and a cabin designed to make long drives comfortable, it's clear that the Ferrari 12Cilindri is a special car that should be fun to drive on the road and a race track. We can hardly wait.