Ferrari introduces 12Cilindri with 830hp V12 engine

ABU DHABI: Ferrari has seamlessly blended cutting-edge technology with tradition in the 12Cilindri, its latest masterpiece succeeding the 812 Superfast. It was unveiled recently in Miami and focuses on a powerful 12-cylinder engine.

The 12Cilindri takes forward the legacy of 812 Superfast with a fresh design language, increased power, and innovative technologies. Ferrari retains its naturally aspirated V12 6.5-litre engine, investing heavily to comply with Euro 6e emission standards.

Ferrari unveiled both the open-roof and hard-top coupé Spider variants simultaneously, priced at EUR 435,000 and EUR 395,000 (around AED 1,721,121 and 1,562,857) respectively in Italy. 

As per Flavio Manzoni, Ferrari's chief design officer the 12Cilindri heralds the dawn of a new era, departing from its predecessor, the 812 Competizione’s sculptural aesthetics. The car integrates aerodynamic requirements and technical elements into a cohesive design, featuring nods to the heritage of Ferrari while embracing an intuitive approach. Attention to detail is quite evident in elements such as the unfinished carbon fiber body elements, backward-opening bonnet, and larger, purposeful wheels. Integrated flaps at the rear enhance downforce at speed showcasing the commitment of Ferrari to functional design.

The upgraded 'F140HD' V12 engine of 12Cilindri boasts 830 bhp and 678 Nm, driving the car in 2.9 seconds from 0-100 kmph with a top speed that exceeds 340 kmph. Ferrari lightened the camshaft by 3%, conrods by 40% and pistons by 2% while incorporating features inspired by Formula 1 like shorter manifold tracts, sliding finger valvetrain followers, and tweaked cam profiles. 

Gianmaria Fulgenzi, Chief Product Development Officer, reaffirms the commitment of Ferrari to the V12 engine despite a few regulatory changes.

The 12Cilindri has undergone notable structural changes, such as a reduction in wheelbase by 20 mm to 2,700 mm, enhancing responsiveness and agility compared to the 812. New Michelin and Goodyear tyres and rear-wheel steering further improve stability and cornering behavior. Torsional stiffness sees an increase in around 15% with chassis castings reduced to 17 from 22. 

The braking performance is enhanced by the ABS-Evo system and brake-by-wire technology from the 296 GTB. Despite an increase in weight over the 812 Superfast by around 35kg, Ferrari emphasizes the comprehensive attributes of 12Cilindri.

The layout of the cabin is similar to the Purosangue, offering cocooned 'cockpits' for passengers and drivers with separate digital displays. The 12Cilindri unlike the Purosangue includes a 10.25-inch central infotainment touchscreen but does not have an in-built navigation system in favor of smartphone mirroring. 

The steering wheel is adorned with capacitive controls alongside the Manettino drive mode selector. The physical switches will remind you of the manual gear selector of Ferrari adding a nostalgic touch. The coupé features a glass roof, while the retractable top of Spider operates in 14sec at up to 45 kmph speeds with a reduction in boot space by around 100-litre.

Gianmaria has decided not to disclose sales forecasts, underscoring Ferrari's focus on quality. The company previously stated that the Purosangue SUV would account for less than 20 percent of the total volume.

Galliera emphasizes that Ferrari's growth strategy prioritizes increasing profitability per car sold and expansion into new segments. He also mentioned that the production volume of the 12Cilindri will be similar to that of the 812, its predecessor.

 

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