Ferrari Brings the Gated Shifter Back With the 12Cilindri Manuale

Ferrari answered requests from longtime customers who wanted more direct involvement with their cars. The 12Cilindri Manuale adds a physical gated shifter and clutch pedal to the front-engined V12 grand tourer while preserving strong performance and modern reliability. Ferrari will build only 1,499 examples worldwide. That exact number recalls the displacement of the company’s first V12 engine from 1947 and forms part of the car’s identity from the start.

Each example goes through the Tailor Made program. Owners can choose from 25 heritage hues, including the launch shade Rosso Rubino, and match them with unique leather and Alcantara combinations. Subtle external elements distinguish these vehicles without yelling. Pinstripes run over the front splitter and rear wings, an homage to the iconic 365 GTB/4. Special five-spoke forged wheels come in a variety of finishes. The front fenders include laser-etched shields, and the model logo is inscribed into the aluminum door sills.

The driving controls provide real involvement. Ferrari retained the efficient eight-speed dual-clutch transmission from the standard 12Cilindri, but eliminated the steering wheel paddles entirely. The typical six-speed H-pattern shifter is now housed in a machined metal gate on the center console. The reverse sits to the left side of the pattern. The lever is topped by a spherical metal knob with a lighted gear diagram and LEDs to show the active mode. In a typical triangular configuration, a clutch pedal sits between the accelerator and brake. Sensors on the lever and pedal detect every movement. Electronics then control the transmission and engine. Mechanical parts within the system—springs, cams, and rollers—generate resistance, clicks, and shifting loads, making the operation feel natural and predictable. If the driver mishandles the clutch when coming to a halt, the automobile may stall. Downshifting with your heels and toes works properly. Clutch drops are achievable given the correct conditions. Automatic mode is still available for easier driving and allows full use of all eight speeds.

The power comes from the same 6.5-liter naturally aspirated V12 found in the standard vehicle. It produces 830 metric horsepower at 9,250 rpm and 678 Nm torque at 7,250 rpm. The engine revs cleanly to a redline of 9,500 rpm, with linear delivery and the unmistakable V12 sound. Official performance figures show a 2.9-second sprint to 100 km/h and a top speed of over 340 km/h. In full manual mode, shifts take longer than the dual-clutch’s quickest action, so certain drivers may experience somewhat longer acceleration times. When necessary, launch control can still activate automatic shifting for the quickest escape.

Styling modifications maintain focus and functionality. The center tunnel and console were rebuilt to accommodate the new shifter assembly. Steel and aluminum gear gates echo the six-speed configuration. Seats are available in Comfort or Racing versions and have six vertical grooves that correspond to the forward gears. Each car’s Tailor Made status is marked by a specific silver or carbon fiber plate.

In Italy, prices start at 590,000 euros before taxes and options. In the United States, the figure exceeds $680,000 when the limited-run premium and equipment are factored in. First deliveries will begin in the first quarter of 2027. All cars are coupes, with no spider versions joining the series. This special version appeals to owners who already own paddle-shift Ferraris and desire a vehicle that takes greater physical effort on their favorite roads. The technical team researched previous manuals, particularly the one from the 599 GTB, to recreate the proper shifter travel, clutch feel, and mechanical character. The by-wire technology adds constancy that older, purely mechanical gears could never achieve despite temperature variations or wear.