For years, Ferrari enthusiasts believed the manual gearbox had disappeared for good. Ever since the Ferrari F355 introduced paddle shift technology in 1997, Maranello steadily moved towards faster, more sophisticated dual clutch transmissions.
Photos: Ferrari
The Ferrari 599 GTB became the last production model available with three pedals, marking the end of an era. Now, the Ferrari 12Cilindri Manuale brings the manual gearbox back, but with a thoroughly modern twist.
Here are the seven most important things you need to know about Ferrari's latest V12 grand tourer.
1. Ferrari's first manual car in 15 years
The Ferrari 12Cilindri Manuale marks the long awaited return of the manual gearbox to Maranello. It is the first production Ferrari with three pedals since the Ferrari 599 GTB and arrives after years of customer demand for a more engaging driving experience. However, Ferrari has not simply installed a traditional manual transmission into the 12Cilindri.
Instead, the engineers developed a completely new system that delivers the emotional appeal of an open gate manual while maintaining the performance and intelligence expected from a modern Ferrari. The result is a car that celebrates Ferrari's heritage without compromising the technology that defines its latest generation of road cars.
2. Manuale By Wire transmission
The biggest innovation is Ferrari's new Manuale By Wire system. While the exposed six speed shift gate looks entirely mechanical, both the gear lever and clutch pedal communicate electronically with the transmission. Sensors detect every movement and send digital signals to the gearbox control unit, while specially developed kinematic mechanisms recreate the resistance and feel of a traditional manual.
The clutch pedal uses springs, cams and rollers to provide a realistic biting point, while the gear lever naturally returns to the centre gate and delivers the satisfying metallic click Ferrari owners expect. It feels analogue, but the technology behind it is anything but old fashioned.
3. Dual clutch gearbox
Perhaps the most surprising feature of the 12Cilindri Manuale is that it combines a six speed manual with Ferrari's eight speed dual clutch transmission. Drivers enjoy complete control over the first six gears using the open gate and clutch pedal, but they can also select automatic mode whenever they choose.
The gearbox then shifts itself and makes seventh and eighth gears available for relaxed motorway driving or everyday use. This unique combination means owners can enjoy the involvement of a manual on a favourite road before switching to effortless automatic operation during longer journeys. No previous Ferrari has offered both experiences in a single transmission, however, Swedish automaker Koenigsegg used this technology before.
4. Naturally aspirated V12 is still here
The transmission may be new, but Ferrari wisely left the magnificent 6.5 litre naturally aspirated V12 untouched. Producing 830 hp and revving to an incredible 9,500 rpm, it remains one of the last engines of its kind. The V12 also benefits from technology first seen on the 812 Competizione, including titanium connecting rods, lightweight pistons and Formula 1 inspired sliding finger followers that reduce friction and improve performance.
Ferrari has also refined the intake and exhaust systems to produce an even richer soundtrack. Combined with the manual gearbox, the engine encourages drivers to savour every shift and every climb towards the red line.
5. Redesigned cabin
Step inside and the differences are immediately obvious. The centre console has been redesigned around a beautiful exposed steel shift gate with anodised aluminium detailing and a classic round aluminium gear knob featuring subtle LED illumination. Paddle shifters have disappeared from the steering column, making way for a genuine three pedal layout with a dedicated clutch pedal.
Ferrari has also included several subtle design references to the manual gearbox, including six vertical grooves stitched into the seats to represent the six forward gears. Together, these changes create a cabin that blends Ferrari's historic manual sports cars with the technology and luxury expected from a modern grand tourer.
6. Ferrari's latest performance tech
Although the return of the manual gearbox grabs the headlines, the 12Cilindri Manuale retains all of Ferrari's latest chassis technology. Side Slip Control 8.0 improves grip estimation and stability, while Brake By Wire, ABS Evo, a 6D sensor and the latest version of Ferrari's Virtual Short Wheelbase system deliver exceptional agility and confidence.
Active aerodynamic flaps automatically switch between low drag and high downforce configurations depending on speed and driving conditions, while carefully designed underbody vortex generators improve cooling and aerodynamic efficiency. The result is a Ferrari that delivers classic driver involvement without sacrificing the performance expected from a modern super GT.
7. Limited and Tailor Made
The Ferrari 12Cilindri Manuale will be limited to just 1,499 examples worldwide and will only be offered as a coupe. Every car receives a dedicated Tailor Made specification, including laser etched side badges, forged five spoke alloy wheels and pinstripe detailing inspired by the legendary 365 GTB/4.
Buyers can choose from 25 iconic Ferrari exterior colours alongside exclusive leather, Alcantara and interior trim combinations created specifically for the model. With its naturally aspirated V12, innovative manual transmission and limited production run, the 12Cilindri Manuale is already shaping up to be one of the most desirable and collectible Ferraris of the modern era.
Is this the best comeback after the Ferrari Luce?
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