Vin Diesel's Roar Echoes Across the Winding Road: A Captivating Journey with Ferrari's Last Frontier - the 12-Cylinder Beast
By Patrick Broich
Exclusive Insight into the Powerhouse: Ferrari's 12-Cylinder Marvel
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Is Ferrari pushing the emotional buttons of car enthusiasts with their six-cylinder special models like the F80 and the impending electrification, while the 12-Cylinders stands tall as the brand's last bastion? ntv.de got behind the wheel.
One might think that Ferrari's design team has hit a creative wall: What's the deal with the unromantic name "12 Cilindri"? Or is it a last-ditch attempt to placate fans? "Hey there, dear fans, of course, we still have a V12 in our lineup!" The message is so loud, it must be echoed through the name.
Indeed, the V12 isn't merely the beating heart of the Ferrari 12Cilindri but the pulsating essence of the entire brand. It's unfortunate that it's becoming more of an exclusive exception in Ferrari's model landscape, with fans having to fork out almost double the price of an entry-level model, roughly 400,000 euros, for one. A bit harsh, isn't it?
More bitter still, is that even in the million-dollar special model F80, only six cylinders are employed. One can argue with greenhouse gas emmissions, but even Lamborghini can hybridize a V12, so Ferrari should be able to, too.
But let's not sulk on that, because the 12Cilindri greets us now. Nestled beneath the seemingly endless hood is a 12-cylinder engine, sculpted with a classic 65-degree bank angle. No blown nonsense. Classic sports car, compact at 4.73 meters. Before climbing in, I take a few moments to walk around this automotive marvel. What do I feel? A taste of glamour? A hint of automotive euphoria? Perhaps a mix.
The front reminds history buffs of the 365 GTB/4 from the early 70s, better known as the "Daytona," especially the early "Plexiglas" versions. And the rear? It leaves a sense of disappointment with the shoddily finished exhaust tips. As if someone haphazardly hacked a pipe with a grinder. A blemish one can grit their teeth and bear, but it's hardly worthy of a 400,000-euro-plus car.
Timeless Roar Remains the Crown Jewel
But don't be discouraged! Take a seat! Gaze about a bit. The driver-and-passenger compartment and seats snugly fit. Although the 12Cilindri should be more of a sports car in terms of model history—with its oil-lubricated engine via a dry sump for high-speed cornering—the seats allow for longer journeys, albeit slowly. After all, the moment when the 6.5-liter engine awakens should be celebrated.
The age of start buttons has passed, replaced by a designated touch area on the steering wheel. Why? The tactile sensation is lost. A symphonic hum, a slightly cryptic growl from the dozen. He revels momentarily up to 3000 RPM to greet us with a crisp hello. Now he's ready. Pull the shift paddle briefly to activate the eight-speed dual-clutch—the materialistic eye candy unfolds. But take it easy. Even with a Ferrari, one must first disable annoying assistants, that's just the way it is. Otherwise, an overzealous active steering keeps tugging at the hands to keep the athlete in lane, even though it never left it. But one must resort to poorly responsive touch surfaces on the steering wheel. This could be improved.
This is particularly perplexing because the interior is otherwise workmanship of the finest order and exudes luxury. The Italians don't seem to be short on technical solutions, either. How else would one strike a balance between a steering that is both lightweight and precise, like a laser-guided beam? Steering and suspension, alongside the engine, are the core components of this 1.6-tonne engine's powertrain.
The curb weight, described as moderate according to contemporary standards, is largely spared ballast like all-wheel drive or electrification. Yet, the aluminum body doesn't lag behind in terms of technology—the engineers deemed all-wheel steering essential to bring agility to its pinnacle level.
Almost amazingly, the 12Cylinder even features "by Wire" brakes. It's not perceptible on the pointedly responsive brake pedal. And? Can the exotic exotic Italian deliver in the end? I remain a safe distance away, both in longitudinal and lateral dynamics.
The Ferrari 12Cylinder passes with flying colors
Always with grace, the focus is on the engine sound that gains depth with increasing RPM. It's over at over 9000 RPM. It takes no further proof that a 830 HP beast with close to 700 Nm of torque can make one's spine tingle, no matter how plush the seats (thankfully, they can vibrate massage). Ferrari's headquarters tosses out some numbers just in case. A sprint from 0-200 km/h should take no more than eight seconds, which even speed junkies should be able to cope with. And the propulsion ends at 340 km/h. Perfect alignment.
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So, what's the takeaway from the 12Cylinder offer? That there's appetite for a V12 is clear, otherwise, Aston Martin wouldn't have quickly released a new Vanquish model boasting a similar engine. Will Ferrari continue to champion this exclusive engine type? Communication on the subject is always a delicate dance, as one still aims to extract economic value from the "last" model of its kind. It stirs desires and can be sold at a premium.
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Source: ntv.de
- Ferrari Lineup
- Exotic Sports Cars
- The Ferrari 12-Cylinder stands as a symbol of tradition in a lineup increasingly propelled by electrification and six-cylinder engines.
- The 12-cylinder engine is not just the heart of the Ferrari 12Cilindri, but the essence of the brand itself.
- Despite its exclusivity, the price for a Ferrari 12Cilindri model is almost double that of an entry-level model, roughy 400,000 euros.
- Even in luxury models like the F80, Ferrari has opted for a six-cylinder engine, while other brands, such as Lamborghini, have hybridized a V12.
- The Ferrari 12Cilindri, with its classic 65-degree bank angle and 12-cylinder engine, is a reminder of the brand's sports car heritage.
- The automotive industry, including finance, transportation, and technology, eagerly awaits Ferrari's next move regarding the future of their V12 engines, with some speculating hybrid configurations or innovative designs.