Discover how Ferrari’s limited‑edition 12Cilindri Manuale brings back a true manual gearbox, blending V12 power with modern tech. Read more now!
At last year’s Amalfi super‑car launch, former Ferrari Marketing Director Enrico Galliera boldly declared that the Italian marque would abandon traditional manual gearboxes on future models. Yet, just weeks later the company surprised enthusiasts with the limited‑edition Ferrari 12Cilindri Manuale, the first road‑legal Ferrari equipped with a true manual transmission in 14 years.
Manual Transmission Makes a Comeback
The 12Cilindri Manuale is a celebration of pure mechanical engagement. Only 1,499 units will be produced worldwide, targeting loyal customers who crave the tactile joy of shifting gears while still demanding cutting‑edge performance.
What Is “Manuale by‑wire”?
Ferrari’s proprietary “Manuale by‑wire” system combines a conventional clutch pedal and gear lever with electronic actuation. Drivers shift exactly as they would in a classic manual, but the system retains the lightning‑fast precision of a modern dual‑clutch gearbox. The result is a seamless blend of old‑school feel and contemporary speed.
Powertrain and Performance
Under the sleek grand‑tourer body sits a naturally aspirated 6.5 L V12 that produces a staggering 830 horsepower. Paired with the three‑pedal layout—clutch, brake, accelerator—the car delivers an authentic, high‑revving experience that many Ferrari purists have long missed.
Ferrari’s Dual‑Path Strategy
The launch of the 12Cilindri Manuale comes just a month after Ferrari unveiled the Luce, the brand’s first fully electric model. While the Luce sparked mixed reactions—some fans criticized its futuristic design and the shift away from the iconic V12 roar—Ferrari uses both models to underline a balanced product roadmap.
By 2030, the company plans for electric vehicles to account for only 20 % of its lineup, leaving the remaining 80 % split between traditional gasoline engines and hybrids. This approach ensures that internal‑combustion enthusiasts can still enjoy the brand’s heritage, while the company also embraces electrification across its range, including hybrids, high‑performance track cars, and the four‑seat SUV Purosangue.
Pricing and Availability
In Italy, the 12Cilindri Manuale starts at €590,000 (approximately $675,000), a premium of about $229,000 over the standard Ferrari model. Deliveries are slated to begin in the first quarter of 2027.
For fans who still yearn for the roar of a V12 and the satisfaction of a manual shift, the 12Cilindri Manuale proves that Ferrari is not ready to abandon the mechanical soul that defined the “Prancing Horse” for decades.