Ferrari has recently unveiled a new 'manual' iteration of its acclaimed 12Cilindri grand tourer, known as the 12Cilindri Manuale. This development comes in response to customer desires for a more engaging driving experience. However, the term 'manual' here comes with a unique twist, as it integrates an advanced 'Manuale By-Wire' system. This innovative setup combines the rapid gear changes characteristic of a dual-clutch transmission with the tactile involvement of a traditional stick shift, offering drivers the best of both worlds. The limited production run of 1,499 units, coupled with the unchanged high-performance V12 engine, underscores its exclusivity and commitment to driving pleasure, albeit with a modern interpretation of manual control.
At the heart of the 12Cilindri Manuale's distinctiveness is its 'Manuale By-Wire' transmission system. Unlike conventional manual gearboxes, this system is built upon the same eight-speed dual-clutch transmission found in the standard 12Cilindri. What sets it apart is the ability for drivers to manually engage the first six forward gears, as well as reverse, using a physical clutch pedal and an iconic gated shifter. This design choice aims to replicate the classic 'analogue feel' and directness that enthusiasts associate with traditional manual driving. Remarkably, the system even allows for the car to stall, further enhancing the authenticity of the manual experience.
Operating this innovative gearbox involves selecting Manual mode, depressing the newly added clutch pedal, and moving the polished shift knob through a meticulously crafted metal gate. The integration of Hall-effect sensors meticulously monitors shifter movements, while an electric actuator ensures precise gear engagement only when Manual mode is active. An electronic clutch pedal works in tandem, translating driver inputs into the hydraulic commands necessary for the dual-clutch transmission. Drivers can initiate the car in either automatic drive mode by pressing only the brake pedal, or directly into Manual mode by engaging the clutch. The flexibility extends to switching between automatic and manual operations while driving, although the seventh and eighth gears are specifically optimized for more relaxed, high-speed cruising scenarios.
Ferrari's dedication to preserving the performance heritage of its V12 flagship is evident in the powertrain of the 12Cilindri Manuale. The vehicle retains its formidable naturally aspirated 6.5-liter V12 engine, which delivers an impressive 819 horsepower and 500 pound-feet of torque. This ensures that the Manuale variant matches the blistering performance of its standard counterpart, achieving 0 to 62 mph in just 3.0 seconds and reaching a top speed of 211 mph. The introduction of this sophisticated transmission technology, without compromising the raw power of the V12, highlights Ferrari's innovative approach to blending traditional driving engagement with cutting-edge engineering.
The 12Cilindri Manuale, with its unique transmission and powerful engine, represents a significant step for Ferrari in catering to the preferences of driving purists while embracing technological advancements. This limited-edition model, restricted to just 1,499 units and offering extensive personalization through the Tailor Made program, is expected to command a premium price beyond the standard model's approximate $423,000. This blend of classic driving dynamics and modern technology marks an exciting chapter in Ferrari's ongoing pursuit of automotive excellence and driver satisfaction.
