Future classic: Ferrari 12Cilindri

By Aaron McKay

| 10 Feb 2026

Classic & Sports Car – Future classic: Ferrari 12Cilindri

Expressions of ultimate performance have undergone dramatic changes: in style, through aerodynamics, forced induction and most recently electrification, along with all of the computer-controlled systems that have harnessed a motoring arms race now at an all-time high.

Yet Ferrari’s V12, in all its theatre, spirit and richness of delivery, has remained an idol to enthusiasts.

From 250GT to 365GTB/4 Daytona and its return via the 550M and F12, this revered layout has been at the heart of an appeal that transcends measurable capability.

The Ferrari 12Cilindri packs an 819bhp V12 beneath its long bonnet

Released from having to top the horsepower charts by the 987bhp SF90, the front-mid-engined 12C places fidelity of performance over outright pace.

Its Daytona-like nose, rising wheelarches and scalloped tail flow into crisp edges in a mesmerising blend of Maranello memories and subtle sci-fi that here manages to wear its Giallo Triplo Strato and every carbonfibre accessory without being flashy.

It draws wonder from most, celebration from some and malicious envy from few.

Ferrari’s central rev counter remains in the 12Cilindri – but it’s gone digital

Inside, Ferrari’s advances in material and build quality are manifest in plush leather, Alcantara and more carbonfibre, with a tight fit that 15 years ago would have been alien to most supercars.

Nonetheless, the centrepiece is the 6.5-litre V12 lying under its vast aluminium bonnet.

For confirmation, it flares in a burst of revs on start-up, revealing immediately a sharp edge to this inherently silky engine by way of lightened internals, carbon-coated valve followers and a lofty 13.5:1 compression ratio.

The Ferrari 12Cilindri takes inspiration from Prancing Horses of old, but avoids being retro

Yet it soon settles, and coaxes this supple-riding grand tourer with dignified reserves of torque if so wished, developing a deep-chested induction roar through its two vast carbonfibre intakes when pressed further.

The resonant howls of Maranello V12s past take on a new urgency beyond 5000rpm, gaining a searing exhaust note as it nears a 9500rpm redline.

Short intermediate ratios in the deft eight-speed, dual-clutch automatic gearbox provide gratuitous access to this sonorous jewel, and the chassis develops a delicate flow at speeds that won’t necessarily risk your licence.

Despite its wild performance, the Ferrari 12Cilindri is enjoyable when you’re not at ten-tenths

Despite Ferrari’s trademark, lightning-quick rack and trick rear-wheel steering, the 12Cilindri has natural responses whichever ‘manettino’ driving mode is selected on the steering-wheel-mounted dial.

Traction is always in limited supply, but it’s rarely a danger: a long-travel throttle controls the rear’s attitude with none of the spiky threats given in the 812 Superfast.

The 12C goes beyond the impact of its 819bhp and the extraordinary technical solutions behind controlling it: the latest episode in Ferrari’s V12 drama is a performance in itself.

Images: Jack Harrison