Ferrari’s 12Cilindri Manuale Brings the Classic Stick Shift Into the Modern Era

Blending cutting-edge transmission technology with the feel of a six-speed manual, the 830-horsepower V12 grand tourer delivers an immersive driving experience complete with the familiar quirks of traditional gear changes.

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Considering that Ferrari has recently introduced its inaugural transmission-less electric vehicle, it is somewhat unexpected that Maranello's subsequent automotive innovation features the first gated shifter in more than ten years. Recognizing that the platform for Ferrari's new "Manuale-By-Wire" transmission is the 12Cilindri—a contemporary tribute to a formidable V12 lineage originating from the inaugural Prancing Horse model, the 125 S—the reintroduction of a manual gearbox to the Ferrari collection is fully rational.

The naturally aspirated 6.5-liter V12 engine produces 830 horsepower, which is transmitted to the wheels using the esteemed 8-speed dual-clutch transmission that premiered in the SF90 Stradale in 2019, subsequently utilized in the Roma, the 296 GTB, and the Purosangue, among others. The 12Cilindri’s dual-clutch transmission (DCT) is operated via a gated shifter and clutch pedal, both of which are electronically controlled, meaning driver inputs are relayed to a computer that engages the gearbox, rather than utilizing automatic gear changes or paddle shifters. It would be an oversight not to acknowledge the automatic mode; yet, those who rely on it predominantly are fundamentally misunderstanding its purpose.

The kinematic system facilitates gear selection, centered around a central rotating block composed of high-strength steel. The clutch mechanism employs a contoured rotating drum connected to a preloaded system that produces an initial rise and subsequent release of load on the gear lever, resulting in a tactile sense perceptible through the lever's knob. The clutch pedal operates on a by-wire approach, devoid of any cable or hydraulic line linking it to the actual clutch. A position sensor on the pedal assembly precisely monitors the extent and speed of pedal depression, transmitting this data electronically to the DCT's control unit, which then activates the hydraulic actuation of the transmission's clutch packs.

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The pedal is engineered to replicate the load-travel curve of a mechanically linked clutch—exhibiting resistance as it is released and then yielding at the engagement point—ensuring that the sensation in your foot corresponds to that of a conventional clutch, despite the absence of any physical connection beneath it. Accurate synchronization between pedal input and engine/gearbox response produces a seamless, precise gear change; nonetheless, discrepancies may still lead to a jolt or a stall. Heel-toe shifts, in which a driver employs one section of their right foot to engage the brake while concurrently using another section to blip the accelerator in anticipation of a downshift, are feasible.

The gear lever, clutch pedal, and controls for Drive, Reverse, and Neutral transmit signals to the gearbox control unit, which oversees manual inputs while maintaining the fundamental functioning logic of the DCT. Individuals fortunate enough to possess a manual transmission Prancing Horse will be familiar with the configuration of the gated shifter: Reverse is positioned at the apex of a six-speed steel plate, adorned in this instance with an anodized aluminum sculpture resembling a tuning fork, which integrates the control panel and key housing.

The Ferrari 12Cilindri Manuale is restricted to 1,499 units, reflecting the displacement of the inaugural Ferrari 12-cylinder built in 1947. Additional allusions to Maranello's manual V12 legacy are present on the vehicle itself—the rear wings exhibit a pinstripe finish that honors the Ferrari 365 GTB4, often known as the Ferrari Daytona. The five-spoke forged wheels, offered in four finish variations, are another classically inspired design feature. The vehicle is offered in 25 distinctive Ferrari hues, including Rosso Rubino, Argento Nürburgring, Nero Daytona, Rubino Micalizzato, Rosso Dino, Giallo Montecarlo, Verde Zeltweg, Azzurro La Plata, Blu Pozzi, Bianco Mille Miglia, and Viola Hong Kong.