Ferrari 12Cilindri Manuale marks the return of a manual transmission in a limited-production model, but with an unconventional approach. The new Manuale-By-Wire system delivers a traditional driving experience while using the first six ratios of an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, combining analog-style controls with modern technology.

Ferrari Introduces the 12Cilindri Manuale

After previously appearing reluctant to build new manual-transmission cars, Ferrari has unveiled the 12Cilindri Manuale. Production is limited to 1,499 examples, a number referencing the displacement of Ferrari’s first V12 engine introduced in 1947.

Unlike a conventional manual gearbox, the system does not have a mechanical connection to the transmission driving the rear wheels. Instead, drivers operate what are effectively the first six gears of the car’s eight-speed dual-clutch transmission.

How the Manuale-By-Wire System Works

Ferrari developed the Manuale-By-Wire system alongside the team behind its Hypersail racing yacht, creating both the shifter and clutch-by-wire system from the ground up.

The gear selector is built around a central rotating block machined from solid high-strength steel. It self-centers through a system of eccentric rollers, while real springs provide mechanical-style resistance and feedback during shifts.

The clutch pedal also aims to replicate the feel of a traditional manual. A torque motor delivers progressive pedal effort, and when the clutch is pressed, a position sensor triggers the hydraulic actuation of the dual-clutch transmission’s clutch pack, allowing the selected gear to engage.

Ferrari says the clutch is sensitive enough that jerky launches or even stalling are possible. To protect the transmission, however, the shift gates include lockouts that prevent drivers from selecting a gear that is too low for the engine’s current speed, eliminating the possibility of accidentally shifting into first gear at highway speeds.

Automatic and Manual Modes

The transmission can also operate in automatic mode, activated using buttons on the transmission tunnel. When automatic mode is engaged, the H-pattern on the ball-shaped shifter illuminates in white. In manual mode, it glows orange.

Drivers can switch directly from automatic mode into a pre-selected gear by moving the shifter into the desired ratio. The instrument cluster then displays the engine speed that gear will produce before the driver releases the clutch and accelerates.

Unlike the Koenigsegg CC850, the Ferrari does not offer steering-wheel paddle shifters as an additional way to control the transmission.

The Manuale version adds just 11 pounds over the standard 12Cilindri, bringing dry weight to 3,450 pounds.

Performance Remains Unchanged

The 12Cilindri Manuale retains the same 6.5-liter naturally aspirated, non-hybrid V12 engine found in the standard model.

• 819 horsepower
• 9,500-rpm redline
• Top speed exceeding 211 mph
• 0–62 mph in 3.0 seconds

Ferrari says the standard 12Cilindri completes the same sprint in 2.9 seconds.

Subtle Exterior Updates

Visually, the 12Cilindri Manuale closely resembles the standard model but includes several distinctive details.

The front black mask receives a pinstripe finish inspired by the 365 GTB4, while the same design appears on the active rear wings. The Scudetto shield on those wings is embossed using a process typically reserved for precious coins.

The model also features exclusive forged alloy wheels offered in four finishes. Standard aluminum door sills include a laser-engraved model logo, while optional carbon-fiber sills receive a painted version of the badge.

Customization Through Ferrari Tailor Made

Customers can choose between Comfort and Racing seats, both featuring six vertical grooves that reference the gated shift lever.

Every example passes through Ferrari’s Tailor Made program, confirmed by a silver or carbon-fiber plaque positioned between the seats.

Owners can also select a livery referencing the six-speed layout, along with 25 Ferrari colors, including Rosso Rubino, Argento Nürburgring, Nero Daytona, Rubino Micalizzato, Rosso Dino, Giallo Montecarlo, Verde Zeltweg, Azzurro La Plata, Blu Pozzi, Bianco Mille Miglia, and Viola Hong Kong.

Ferrari did not announce pricing for the limited-edition model, though it is expected to cost considerably more than the dual-clutch version, which starts at around $465,000 and can reach nearly three-quarters of a million dollars.

A New Direction for the Manual Transmission

The Ferrari 12Cilindri Manuale reintroduces a manual driving experience through a modern dual-clutch platform while preserving the company’s naturally aspirated V12 performance. With production limited to 1,499 cars, the model combines new transmission technology with extensive customization and subtle design updates, offering a unique interpretation of the traditional manual transmission.