Ferrari 12Cilindri Manuale: the purest expression of driving

• The Ferrari 12Cilindri Manuale, a limited-edition special series of the Ferrari 12Cilindri, introduces Ferrari's new in-house-developed Manuale By-Wire system, which delivers an authentic manual driving experience while retaining all the advantages of Ferrari's dual-clutch transmission (DCT), further enhancing the direct interaction between driver and car.
• The naturally aspirated V12 is paired with the new manual command architecture, featuring a gear lever and a clutch-by-wire pedal, which combines high-precision mechanics and electronics to offer a modern take on manual gear changes, alongside the option to drive in automatic mode.
• The Ferrari 12Cilindri Manuale (available in a limited run of 1,499) draws on Ferrari's Tailor Made personalisation programme, offering exclusive specifications in which craftsmanship, design, and attention to detail come together more harmoniously than ever.

Maranello, 03 July 2026 - Ferrari today unveiled the Ferrari 12Cilindri Manuale, a limited-edition special series of the Ferrari 12Cilindri that opens up a new way of experiencing the purest expression of Ferrari's DNA, placing the relationship between driver input, mechanics and control at the heart of the driving experience. Designed for those seeking a physical and engaging experience behind the wheel without compromising on usability, the car combines the driving emotions typical of Ferrari Gran Turismo models from the 1950s, 60s, and 70s with the most advanced contemporary technology, aiming to make the interaction between driver and car even more direct.

The Ferrari 12Cilindri Manuale is designed to deliver sublime and exclusive driving emotions through two major innovations: the manual command and the new clutch pedal, which together form the Manuale By-Wire system, engineered entirely at Maranello. The system offers a contemporary reinterpretation of the analogue gear-shifting experience, leveraging the most advanced technology to ensure precision, repeatability and ease of use. The intensive design and development work carried out by Ferrari have made it possible to translate the physicality of mechanical movement into an electronic signal while fully preserving its analogue feel, consistency, and naturalness. This was achieved through a highly integrated process that drew on a range of cross-functional expertise within the Company, including collaboration with the team responsible for the Hypersail project - which, using the same approach, developed a cutting-edge by-wire technological solution for the nautical sector.

The car can be driven in manual mode in the first six gears and reverse, or in automatic mode, offering maximum freedom to choose between driving engagement and comfort. Within this balance, the naturally aspirated V12 is the ideal engine for enhancing the progression and handling of gear changes, thanks to its rev range extending up to 9,500 rpm and the character of its power at high revs.

The interplay between the innovative gear lever, the clutch pedal, and the accelerator pedal becomes an integral part of the driving experience, fostering a deep connection between driver and car that allows the Ferrari 12Cilindri's full potential to be realised. The new Manuale By-Wire system combines the technology of Ferrari's highly acclaimed 8-speed DCT gearbox with a system redesigned from scratch, introducing entirely new components and a gear lever designed to deliver a pure, engaging analogue feel. The architecture features a gear lever selector, a control panel, and a pedal assembly with a clutch pedal (also by-wire) that allows the driver to manage the engagement and disengagement of the clutch pack, as well as updates to the control unit and gearbox/engine control software. The result is a blend of mechanical and electronic technology that delivers pinpoint precision and load control without compromising driving feel, creating a unique offering in the world of high-performance motoring.

The manual control system consists of a mechanical module equipped with sensors and advanced kinematic mechanisms that replicate the mechanical loads typical of Ferrari manual gearboxes during the synchronisation, engagement, and disengagement phases. The kinematic mechanism generates clicks and load variations, providing clear feedback to the driver regarding gear engagement. If the clutch is not depressed, or an unauthorised gear is selected, the system is able to mechanically inhibit engagement, preventing the operation from being completed; when the lock is not active, however, the kinematic mechanism is free to move. The manual control system is completed by two angle sensors that detect lever positions, a knob, and a backlit button panel for improved readability and integration with the interface. The compact, modular mechanism is machined from solid blocks and weighs less than 3.5 kg. Furthermore, even the acoustic effects of its movements have been the subject of dedicated development to enhance the perception of the underlying mechanics.

The manual gear-changing process is complemented by the three-pedal layout, completely redesigned for the Ferrari 12Cilindri Manuale. The clutch-by-wire pedal acts as a high-precision interface between the driver and the powertrain: the pedal position is detected by a position sensor on the pedal assembly and then translated into hydraulic actuation of the DCT clutch, thereby coordinating the transmission and engine during gear changes. The system recreates the typical load-travel curve of mechanically linked manual gearboxes thanks to an innovative passive mechanical system. An angle position sensor continuously reads the driver's intent throughout the entire range of pedal travel. This results in behaviour consistent with the logic of traditional manual gearboxes: correct synchronisation yields a smooth, precise gear change; otherwise, it may become more difficult, resulting in a jerk or a stall - heightening driver involvement and the satisfaction of authentic torque feedback. The system also features specially developed transition logics between manual and automatic modes, as well as coasting management to ensure complete fluidity right down to idle, with behaviour consistent with the use of the clutch during deceleration.

Inside the cabin of the Ferrari 12Cilindri Manuale, the centre tunnel console, gear lever, knob, gear shift gate, and pedals reinterpret the iconic elements of Ferrari cars with lever-operated manual transmission in a contemporary way. The gear shift gate echoes the six-speed shift pattern, with reverse at the top left, while the round aluminium gear knob is enhanced by a backlit screen print indicating the six gears and the currently active driving mode (automatic/manual). The centre tunnel console area has been redesigned to improve ergonomics during manual gear changes and in automatic mode; the pedal assembly completes the driver-focused layout, arranged in a triangular configuration between the steering wheel and the seat. The iconic gear shift gate has been reinterpreted, retaining its original iconic status and integrating it harmoniously into the car's stylistic language. The steel plate is embellished with an anodised aluminium sculpture in the shape of a tuning fork, which incorporates the control panel and key housing.

The design of the components and the leather-upholstered console have also been crafted to harmonise with the contemporary aesthetic of the Ferrari 12Cilindri in a balanced and coherent way: a refined touch, designed to discreetly celebrate the gear shift gate's return to its original function.

The Ferrari 12Cilindri Manuale is offered as a limited series of just 1,499 cars, a number that recalls the displacement of the first Ferrari twelve-cylinder engine produced in 1947, becoming an integral part of the new model's identity. It is designed for Ferraristi who are loyal to front-engined V12 two-seater berlinettas and seeking an even more physical level of driving emotions.

Its exclusivity is further reinforced by a dedicated Tailor Made specification and details that ensure instant recognition - not merely as an extension of the range but as the very language from which the design took shape. The side badge features the car's laser-etched logo, whilst the front splitter and rear wings feature a pinstripe finish that pays homage to the Ferrari 365 GTB4. These elements are complemented by a special finish for the scudetto, specially designed five-spoke forged wheels and aluminium door sills engraved with the car's logo.

More images of the Ferrari 12Cilindri Manuale are available for download at ferrari.com/media-centre

Ferrari Media & PR
[email protected]
www.ferrari.com

FERRARI 12CILINDRI

The Ferrari 12Cilindri draws inspiration from the iconic Ferrari Gran Turismo models of the 1950s and 1960s, fully embodying the ethos of Ferrari's front-engined, two-seater V12s: a perfect blend of elegance, versatility, and performance. It represents the latest evolution of this prestigious lineage, carrying forward a unique heritage and raising it to new standards of performance, comfort, and design. Its design exudes sportiness and sophistication: simple, harmonious lines blend with innovative features such as integrated active aerodynamics designed to deliver unrivalled performance, and the reverse-opening bonnet that showcases the engine bay. The picture is completed by twin pairs of exhaust tailpipes, a hallmark of Ferrari's twelve-cylinder engines. Under the bonnet, the new naturally aspirated 6.5-litre V12 is capable of delivering 830 cv and revving up to 9,500 rpm, offering linear power delivery and an unmistakable sound. With a top speed in excess of 340 km/h and acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in approximately 3.0 seconds, the 12Cilindri redefines the concept of the modern grand tourer, combining extreme performance and uncompromising refinement.

PRESS KIT

MANUALE BY-WIRE SYSTEM

The lever-operated Manuale By-Wire system was developed with the aim of combining an analogue experience with the latest technology. The system pairs the highly acclaimed 8-speed dual-clutch transmission with a dedicated architecture and entirely new components. This enables manual gear changes whilst maintaining functional consistency with the powertrain. The components include the manual gear lever, the control panel, and a specially redesigned pedal assembly featuring a clutch-by-wire pedal; in addition, the vehicle control unit and gearbox software have been updated to precisely manage the new interactions. The engine and transmission remain unchanged, reinforcing a design philosophy that concentrates innovation on the interface and the quality of the physical interaction.

LEVER AND KINEMATIC MECHANISMS

The Manuale By-Wire system was developed following a precise technical sequence. This involved first assessing the kinematic precision, then the progression and fidelity of the loads, and finally, the driver's full autonomy during gear changes. The kinematic mechanism enables two rotations and allows for gear selection and engagement. At the heart of the system lies a central rotating block made from solid-machined high-strength steel, designed to ensure precise and consistent movement over time. The functional surfaces have been engineered to achieve extremely high dimensional accuracy and very low surface roughness, thereby ensuring clear feedback and the absence of play or positional drift.

The gear selector is self-centring; the lever returns to neutral via a system of eccentric rollers. The various gear positions are highlighted by the iconic Ferrari gear shift gate (to engage reverse gear, the lever must be pressed downwards). The clutch mechanism uses a profiled rotating drum coupled with a preloaded system, which generates an initial increase and subsequent release of load on the lever - transforming gear shifting into a purely physical sensation that can be felt directly through the knob. To ensure the tactile feedback remains consistent over time, the drum has also been made from case-hardened high-strength alloy steel.

In terms of integration with the powertrain, the Manuale By-Wire system is designed to preserve the classic gear-shifting experience - defined by physical forces, interaction with the gear shift gate, shift pattern, and loads - while making it compatible with the 8-speed dual-clutch transmission. The gear lever, clutch-by-wire pedal, and controls for 'Drive', 'Reverse', and 'Neutral' modes send signals to the gearbox control unit, which manages manual inputs whilst leaving the DCT's basic operating logic unchanged. The driver's input is detected by two Hall-effect angle sensors, one per axis; the actuator that provides physical feedback is a push-pull solenoid, used as a locking device. The interface is completed by the white and amber backlit gear knob, comprising a solid-machined anodised aluminium body, a light-diffusing layer and an integrated PCB with 12 LEDs.

CLUTCH PEDAL

The unique sensation of a manual gear change is not limited to the gear lever: the Ferrari 12Cilindri Manuale features a completely redesigned three-pedal layout, in which the clutch acts as a high-precision interface between driver and powertrain. The pressure applied to the pedal is detected and digitally converted with pinpoint accuracy, before being transmitted via a by-wire system to the dual-clutch gearbox control unit, thereby establishing a seamless link between pedal pressure and the opening of the clutch plates. The system is calibrated to recognise, throughout the entire pedal travel, the driver's intentions through their input on the pedals, supported by dedicated hardware and software, to ensure fast, precise and effective gear changes. The behaviour is consistent with that of a traditional Ferrari manual gearbox: with perfect timing, shifting is smooth and precise, while incorrect timing can make the gear change stiffer or generate slight jolts, thereby maximising driver involvement and the sense of authenticity in the feedback.

The clutch pedal follows a logic that begins with the input from the driver's foot, passes through the digital system, and transmits that input to the powertrain: the physical engagement of the pedal is linked, via digital transfer, to the physical command of the clutch pack, requiring the driver to coordinate the transmission and engine during the gear change. The system recreates the physiological load-travel curve of mechanically linked manual gearboxes through an innovative analogue mechanism consisting of a preload spring, cam, and roller that interact with the digital position sensor, tracking the dynamics and variations of the gesture without delay. The system builds load beneath the foot, while the by-wire sensors and controls translate physical inputs into synchronisation with the engine and transmission, preserving a pure manual gearbox feel.

OPERATING LOGIC

The system is based on an innovative architecture developed to offer a radical reinterpretation of the concept of driver involvement. The six-speed manual transmission prioritises direct interaction with the vehicle: manual mode is engaged exclusively via the clutch pedal, restoring the sensation of an authentic, natural gesture. The calibration of the gear lever ensures precise and rapid gear changes, contributing to a consistent and rewarding mechanical feel. The decision to remove the steering wheel paddles - for the first time in many years on a Ferrari - underscores the desire to focus the driving experience on the gear lever and clutch, emphasising awareness, a sense of ritual, and the physicality of the driver's gestures.

While driving, the system provides full, direct control of the dual-clutch transmission (DCT), thanks to the integration of the Manuale By-Wire system and the pedal assembly, which allow the driver to directly control the transmission. In automatic mode, it is also possible to pre-select the gear via the lever, with a graphic display on the instrument cluster showing how the rev counter will react to the gear change. This approach faithfully recreates the dynamics of a manual gearbox: iconic manoeuvres such as the heel-and-toe can be performed, and typical responses such as the engine stalling when pulling away or while downshifting can be experienced if the clutch is not operated quite correctly.

The Ferrari 12Cilindri Manuale allows the driver to switch to automatic mode when required, allowing them to take advantage of the fully automated operation of the 8-speed DCT, and enabling them to choose their preferred driving style according to the situation. The system also employs dedicated control logic to ensure safety and smoothness, such as coasting management, which allows the car to decelerate to idle whilst maintaining a smooth, jerk-free transition. Switching between modes is supported by dedicated controls and visual feedback on the instrument cluster and gear lever, providing clear, progressive, and controlled management at all times.

DESIGN

The exclusivity of the Ferrari 12Cilindri Manuale, designed by the Ferrari Design Studio under the direction of Flavio Manzoni, is further enhanced by a dedicated Tailor Made specification and a series of iconic details that make the car instantly recognisable. The logo on the side badge is laser-etched, whilst the front splitter and rear wings feature a pinstripe finish that pays a subtle tribute to the 365 GTB4. The Tailor Made offering comprises carefully selected exterior colours, and interiors enriched with dedicated leather and Alcantara®, featuring exclusive trim and colours from the Prancing Horse's personalisation programme.

Exclusive forged alloy wheels in four finish options are available for the Ferrari 12Cilindri Manuale. The embossed scudetto, available exclusively on this edition, is produced using a technique similar to that used for precious coins. An optional livery is also available, paying homage to the six-speed gearbox, and is offered in a range of colour schemes. The seats, available in Comfort and Racing versions, are enhanced with Tailor Made materials and a specific trim featuring six vertical grooves, once again echoing the six gears.

The Ferrari 12Cilindri Manuale is available in 25 iconic Ferrari colours, including the standout Rosso Rubino of the launch edition. Other shades inspired by Ferrari's heritage include Argento Nürburgring, Nero Daytona, Rubino Micalizzato, Rosso Dino, Giallo Montecarlo, Verde Zeltweg, Azzurro La Plata, Blu Pozzi, Bianco Mille Miglia, and Viola Hong Kong. Other specially designed details include a dedicated plate in silver or carbon fibre bearing the Tailor Made logo. The standard aluminium door sill features the car's logo engraved into it, while the optional carbon-fibre sill has the car's logo painted onto it.

7 YEARS' MAINTENANCE

Unrivalled quality standards and a strong customer focus underpin Ferrari's seven-year extended service programme, which is available for the Ferrari 12Cilindri Manuale. This programme, applicable across the entire range, covers all routine maintenance work for the first seven years of the car's life. The routine maintenance plan is an exclusive service for Ferrari clients and is also available to those purchasing a Ferrari that is not a first-registration vehicle.

Key advantages of the Genuine Maintenance programme include scheduled inspections (at intervals of 20,000 km or once a year, with no mileage limit), genuine spare parts, and thorough checks carried out using state-of-the-art diagnostic tools by qualified personnel trained at the Ferrari Training Centre in Maranello. This service is available in all markets and covers all Dealerships in the Official Network.

The Genuine Maintenance programme further expands the wide range of after-sales services offered by Ferrari to meet the needs of clients who wish to ensure that the performance and excellence that characterise their cars remain unchanged over time.

FERRARI 12CILINDRI MANUALE - TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

POWERTRAIN

Type V12 - 65° - Dry sump

Total displacement 6496 cm3

Bore and stroke 94 mm x 78 mm

Maximum power* 830 cv at 9250 rpm

Maximum torque 678 Nm at 7250 rpm

Maximum engine speed 9500 rpm

Compression ratio 13.5:1

Power per litre 128 cv/l

DIMENSIONS AND WEIGHT

Length 4733 mm

Width 2176 mm

Height 1292 mm

Wheelbase 2700 mm

Front track 1686 mm

Rear track 1645 mm

Dry weight** 1565 kg

Dry weight-to-power ratio 1.88 kg/cv

Weight distribution 48.4% front / 51.6% rear

Fuel tank capacity 92 litres

Boot capacity 270 litres

TYRES AND WHEELS

Front 275/35 R21 J10.0

Rear 315/35 R21 J11.5

BRAKES

Front 398 x 223 x 38 mm

Rear 360 x 233 x 32 mm

TRANSMISSION AND GEARBOX

8-speed F1 dual-clutch transmission with clutch pedal and Manuale By-Wire control

ELECTRONIC CONTROLS

SSC 8.0: TC, eDiff, SCM, PCV 3.0, FDE 2.0, EPS, ABS-Evo in all Manettino positions, 6D sensor

High-performance ABS/EBD

PERFORMANCE

Maximum speed >340 km/h

0-100 km/h 2.9 s

0-200 km/h <7.9 s

100-0 km/h 31.4 m

200-0 km/h 122.0 m

FUEL CONSUMPTION***

15.5 l/100 km

CO2 EMISSIONS***

353 g/km

* With 98-octane petrol, including 5 cv of dynamic overboost

** Configuration with optional content

*** WLTC cycle - Combined