Cover Ferrari 12 Cilindri Yellow
Ferrari 12 Cilindri Yellow
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The Italian marque’s latest offering is one of the most desirable cars on the planet right now. But is the Ferrari 12Cilindri more than just a pretty face? Tatler heads to Luxembourg to find out
Ferrari’s latest offering, the 12Cilindri is more than just a car—it’s the epitome of automotive art. The name, meaning “12-cylinder”, heralds the brand’s storied past, while the car itself feels like a farewell letter to Ferrari’s legendary naturally aspirated V12. Of course, knowing Ferrari, we can expect a few more limited editions of this engine before it gracefully bows out. The lineage of this grand tourer stretches back to the 1950 Ferrari 166 Inter, a road-going GT inspired by Ferrari’s racers.
But for those in the know, the true muse for the 12Cilindri is the iconic 1968 365 GTB/4, more affectionately dubbed the Daytona. The homage is clear from the moment you lay eyes on its bold front headlamp design, a clear nod to the Daytona’s unmistakable styling.
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Above The Ferrari 12Cilindri blends heritage and cutting-edge flair
The Ferrari 12Cilindri blends heritage and cutting-edge flair
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Of course, in true Ferrari fashion, the 12Cilindri doesn’t just command attention—it demands it. Under the creative eye of design guru Flavio Manzoni, this car blends heritage and cutting-edge flair. The long, elegant nose—reminiscent of the grand GTs of the past—extends to house the potent 6.5-litre V12, placed entirely behind the front axle. The cabin, perched neatly above the rear axle, amplifies this dramatic proportion, creating a striking silhouette. But don’t be fooled into thinking the design is just for show.
Ferrari has woven in subtle, sophisticated aerodynamic touches that enhance performance without stealing the spotlight. Beneath the sculpted exterior lies a complex “flat” underbody complete with deflectors and vents, directing airflow to maximise ground effects. This is particularly noticeable at the rear, where the diffuser comes into play. While the front features a prominent functional splitter, the pièce de résistance is found at the back: a discreet yet revolutionary active spoiler system.
Above Backview of the Ferrari 12Cilindri
Backview of the Ferrari 12Cilindri
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Integrating the ends of the bodywork into the active spoiler, Ferrari ensures it only deploys automatically when necessary—during performance handling and at speeds above 60 km/h—adding up to 50kg of downforce at 250 km/h with just a minimal drag penalty. This seamless innovation is even designed to accommodate the forthcoming Spider version.
Inside, the 12Cilindri offers an intimate, two-seat cabin that radiates exclusivity. A parcel shelf perched above the rear-mounted transaxle offers a nod to practicality, though it’s more about style than storage. In contrast to its predecessor, the interior is a softer, more luxurious space, hinting at the car’s refined yet potent setup. The dual cockpit design centres the experience around both driver and passenger. You can choose between sport seats for a more thrilling ride or comfort seats for longer, more leisurely journeys.
Three digital displays ensure that technology takes centre stage. A 15.6-inch driver display keeps you connected with the car’s vitals, while a 10.25-inch central display handles infotainment.The passenger is treated to their own 8.8-inch screen, allowing them to monitor engine performance, speed, and even g-forces. Naturally, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, ensuring seamless connectivity for the modern driver.
Above The luxe interior of the Ferrari 12Cilindri
The luxe interior of the Ferrari 12Cilindri
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Underneath this refined exterior, Ferrari’s legendary engineering is at work. The 6.5-litre V12 is an evolution of the engine found in the 812 Competizione, now producing 830PS—a full 30PS more than the 812 Superfast. The torque has been tuned to provide smoother delivery in third and fourth gears, making the 12Cilindri feel less wild yet no less thrilling. I found the engine’s soundtrack spectacular, especially intoxicating at its astonishing 9500 rpm redline, a testament to Ferrari’s ability to push boundaries.
The updated 8-speed F1 DCT transmission is quicker and smoother than before, with one additional overdrive gear compared to its predecessor. This allows for a lower final drive ratio, effectively improving acceleration across the lower gears. The result? A lightning-fast sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.9 seconds, and 200 km/h in a mere 7.9 seconds. The top speed exceeds 340 km/h, delivering a performance that feels breathtaking yet refined.
Above Under the hood of the Ferrari 12Cilindri
Under the hood of the Ferrari 12Cilindri
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While the stats align closely with the 812 Competizione, the 12Cilindri exudes a more composed, sophisticated character thanks to its intricate chassis and suspension system. It’s a grand tourer at heart, despite its explosive capabilities and extends its prowess to tackle the meandering country roads of Luxembourg and even a track with aplomb. Ferrari is clearly aiming at the discerning super GT market, capturing the attention of drivers who crave excitement without compromising on comfort.
But beyond numbers and performance, the 12Cilindri is an artful expression of Ferrari’s legacy—a true objet d’art that blends peerless engineering prowess with timeless design. This is a car for those who appreciate beauty, exclusivity, and above all else, the thrill of a V12 masterpiece.
Above The Ferrari 12Cilindri
The Ferrari 12Cilindri
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Ferrari 12Cilindri
Price: SG$1.885,040 before options and COE
Engine: 6496cc V12 Natural Aspiration
Transmission: 8-Speed F1 DCT
Power: 830 PS at 9250 rpm
Torque: 678 Nm at 7250 rpm
0-100 km/h: 2.9 seconds
Top Speed: over 340 km/h
Agent: Ital Auto Pte Ltd
Credits
Photography: Roberto Carrer
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