Ferrari 12Cilindri Review: Operatic Thrill
Buckle up, because driving a Ferrari 12Cilindri is like experiencing a symphony on wheels – a V12 masterpiece that can serenade you with elegance or unleash a full-blown operatic crescendo of power. It's the kind of thrill that makes you question why anyone settles for anything less, but here's where it gets controversial: is this beauty worth the compromises in a world obsessed with electric dreams?
What we like:
- Purist engine
- Perfect gearbox
- Sublime handling
What we dislike:
- Awkward looks
- Some cheap interior materials
- NVH not the best (for those new to car jargon, NVH stands for Noise, Vibration, and Harshness – basically how much the car's sounds and shakes bother you)
Let me share a personal secret: I've never had the privilege of piloting a V12-powered Ferrari until now. The 12Cilindri marks my inaugural plunge into the exclusive realm of 12-cylinder Prancing Horses, and the anticipation was electric.
Naturally, the hype builds sky-high. We're dealing with legendary ancestors like the 599 GTB, the F12berlinetta, and the 812 Superfast – each a benchmark of automotive excellence.
V12 Ferraris aren't merely about raw athleticism; they're celebrated for their incredible versatility. Thanks to the engine's substantial capacity, you can cruise leisurely and still feel amply powered, or push it to its absolute limits for that pure race-car adrenaline. Picture this: a sedan-like smoothness on city streets, transforming into a track-ready beast on winding roads.
And let's not forget the iconic V12 exhaust symphony, plus its reputation as one of the most harmoniously balanced engine layouts ever devised. Together, these elements craft an unparalleled grand tourer (GT) experience. It's no coincidence that its primary rival, the Aston Martin Vanquish, also wields a V12 – though theirs is twin-turbocharged for an extra oomph.
Online chatter has often criticized the 12Cilindri's aesthetics and its muffled exhaust tone, so let's tackle those head-on with some fresh perspective.
First, the appearance. I wouldn't label the 12Cilindri as classically beautiful, but it boasts traditional GT styling: a lengthy hood and a cockpit shifted toward the rear. However, nods to vintage Ferraris can feel a tad forced. That being said, it commands attention on the tarmac or in a parking lot, especially when that clamshell hood swings open to reveal the heart beneath.
On the sound front, pause for a moment and consider the bigger picture. The automotive landscape pivoted dramatically toward electric vehicles (EVs), and predictions of the internal combustion engine's (ICE) demise seemed inevitable. Many of Ferrari's adversaries jumped on that bandwagon, sometimes to their own downfall – just compare Porsche's market struggles to Ferrari's resilience. So, is it fair to fault Ferrari for softening the V12 roar to meet stringent emissions rules? Remember, it's still a gloriously naturally aspirated (meaning no turbochargers forcing air in) V12 at its core! If you crave more vocal volume, aftermarket tuners offer ways to amplify those engine vocals. Sure, it whispers in the lower and mid-ranges, but as you approach the redline, it belts out the tune you've been yearning for. But here's where it gets controversial – does this trade-off between environmental compliance and auditory ecstasy divide Ferrari fans?
As befits a true GT, the 12Cilindri offers a comfortably refined ride, making it practical for everyday errands. Engage the bumpy road mode, and it glides over potholes like a dream. The front lifter feature is a godsend in urban traffic, lifting the nose for easier curbside navigation, and visibility is surprisingly excellent.
Inside, the cabin feels overly intricate with its abundance of tech gadgets, and the controls aren't always intuitive. Some materials come across as budget-friendly, with fit and finish occasionally lacking polish. Fortunately, the critical touchpoints shine brightly – think the grippy steering wheel, responsive pedals, and those exquisite carbon fiber seats that cradle you perfectly. For long hauls, the main annoyance is subpar sound insulation; you'll hear pebbles rattling under the car and wind whistling louder than expected.
Crank up the excitement on a quality roadway, and the 12Cilindri truly dazzles. The steering impresses even at modest speeds, but in enthusiastic driving, it communicates brilliantly with its extended wheelbase. Power delivery is flawlessly linear, paired with instantaneous throttle reactions, building unshakeable confidence as you rev into bends. The transmission is near-flawless, intuitively shifting to maximize engine output. It's as if the car morphs to fit you tighter the quicker you go – a sensation that's pure magic.
The 12Cilindri isn't flawless, yet it proudly upholds the banner of naturally aspirated V12 Ferraris, earning its place in the spotlight. Compared to rivals, the Revuelto delivers a more captivating drive and blistering speed via its plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) setup, but lacks the 12Cilindri's serene composure. The Vanquish is intriguing, mirroring the Ferrari closely, though its turbo-forced engine promises greater power at the cost of that purist soul. Time will tell. Historically, the 12Cilindri should offer competitive pricing against the Aston when it hits the market. For the moment, it stands unrivaled for the discerning gentleman who values authenticity.
And this is the part most people miss: in an era of hybrids and electrics, does sticking with a pure ICE like this make you a dinosaur or a connoisseur? Do the compromises in looks and noise outweigh the sheer joy of a V12 heartbeat? We'd love to hear your take – agree or disagree in the comments below!
Photos by Sean Seah
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