The Ferrari 12 Cilindri represents more than just the latest chapter in Ferrari’s long lineage of front mid-engine V12 grand tourers—it embodies a blend of race-bred engineering, luxury, and timeless design that speaks directly to those who value both performance and exclusivity. Tracing its roots back to the 1950 Ferrari 166 Inter, a road-going GT born from Ferrari’s racing heritage, the front mid-engine layout has long been synonymous with Ferrari’s most iconic models. However, it wasn’t until 1996 that Ferrari revived this layout with the 550 Maranello, setting the stage for a lineage that has culminated in the 12 Cilindri.

Inspired by the 1968 365 GTB/4—unofficially dubbed the Daytona—the 12 Cilindri nods to Ferrari’s design heritage, particularly in its front headlamp arrangement, while seamlessly integrating modern elements under the expert direction of Ferrari’s chief designer, Flavio Manzoni. The car’s dramatic lines, long nose, and sculpted proportions are not just for show; they serve to house the naturally aspirated 6.5-litre V12 engine, nestled just behind the front axle.

The cabin, perched far back over the rear axle, offers accommodation for two in an environment that is significantly more plush than its predecessor, a clue to the car’s dual identity: a grand tourer with a penchant for sport, one that never shies away from delivering the raw, visceral thrill of Ferrari’s racing DNA.

Inside, the dual cockpit design clearly separates the driver’s and passenger’s spaces, each crafted for distinct experiences. Two seating configurations are available: sport seats for drivers seeking high-performance engagement and comfort seats for those who prefer long-distance cruising. Technology is at the heart of the interior experience, with three digital screens seamlessly integrated. A 15.6-inch driver display offers all the essential driving data, while a 10.25-inch central display handles infotainment. For the passenger, an 8.8-inch screen allows them to monitor key stats like engine performance, road speed, and even g-force, ensuring they remain engaged throughout the journey.

Ferrari hasn’t neglected modern conveniences. Both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, ensuring that the car’s connectivity matches its high-performance capabilities.

But it’s under the hood where the magic happens. The Ferrari 12 Cilindri’s naturally aspirated 6.5-liter V12 is an evolution of the 812 Competizione’s powerplant, now producing 830PS—30PS more than the 812 Superfast. The power delivery has been fine-tuned to be more progressive, especially in third and fourth gears, giving the car a refined yet exhilarating character. The engine reaches an extraordinary 9500 rpm, producing a soundtrack that is both ferocious and intoxicating, a hallmark of Ferrari’s V12 engines.

The 8-speed F1 DCT transmission has also been revised, now featuring an additional overdrive gear, which allows for a lower final drive ratio and sharper acceleration. The results are staggering: 0-100 km/h in just 2.9 seconds, 0-200 km/h in 7.9 seconds, and a top speed that exceeds 340 km/h.

Despite these supercar stats, the 12 Cilindri is engineered for comfort as well as performance. The advanced chassis and suspension system deliver a composed ride, whether tackling the winding roads of Luxembourg or cruising between cities. The steering is very sharp, if slightly lacking in feedback, but it more than makes up for it with precision, particularly in the way it controls the chassis. The active rear-axle steering further enhances handling, offering rapid responses to directional changes, while Goodyear’s homologated Eagle F1 SuperSport tires deliver both refinement and grip.

Should the road surface prove too harsh, Ferrari’s “Bumpy Road” mode adjusts the damping to deliver a smoother, more comfortable ride without sacrificing control. The active rear steering, coupled with these adaptive features, ensures that the car performs as beautifully on a winding country road as it does on the track.

Ultimately, the Ferrari 12 Cilindri is more than just a high-performance machine. It is an exquisite blend of engineering and artistry, crafted for those who demand not only speed and power but also the finer things in life. This car is an objet d’art, a tribute to Ferrari’s legacy and a testament to the company’s commitment to pushing boundaries.

Ferrari 12 Cilindri at a Glance: