Maranello unveiled one of its most remarkable creations in recent memory, the 2027 Ferrari 12Cilindri Manuale. As its designation implies, the top-tier V12 model now features a six-speed gated shifter, a clutch pedal—and, after experiencing the system myself at its launch—all the tangible and emotional rewards of a classic manual.
In truth, this isn’t a fresh transmission design nor a classic manual that Ferrari yanked from inventory. Essentially, the 12Cilindri Manuale utilizes the eight-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox from the SF90 Stradale, but it’s been modified with a new brain or architecture to change how it interacts with the driver. Additionally, Ferrari eliminated the top two gears to create an authentic six-speed, with one engineer clarifying to me that six gears suffice to provide the intended character. The final product is a bespoke transmission crafted for this specific purpose.
Regarding specifics: Ferrari refers to this Manuale by Wire, and while the first term is Italian, I doubt I need to elaborate on its meaning, right? Similar to brake- and steer-by-wire, this innovative transmission system employs electronics to convert driver actions from the shifter and clutch into signals for the transmission and, ultimately, the engine. There’s no mechanical connection between the three, but a strong tactile link exists between the vehicle and the driver. In summary, manuale by wire is aimed at reintroducing the experience of driving a manual into a V12 Ferrari, while still delivering the advantages of both systems. How? You can also operate the vehicle in complete automatic mode.
Functionality
There are three crucial components: the transmission, the shifter, and the clutch. Also, there are no paddles behind the steering wheel, as that would be “inconsistent” with the concept and overkill. The shift lever, gated base, and all linked components that transmit electronic signals are crafted just as they would be for a conventional model with a manual. In other words, everything appears and operates just like the real thing.
Ferrari crafted the manuale-by-wire to be as authentic as possible, starting with the clutch feel. Achieving the right pedal pressure, the subtleties of pedal movement, and clutch engagement were top priorities. Similarly, an engineer noted that the sensation and balance of the shifter were vital to provide the correct experience, so they referenced one of the greats, the 599 GTB, and replicated a similar clutch feel, shifter throw distance, feel, and play of the metal shifter rod against the gates.
According to Ferrari, operating the 12Cilinidri Manuale is akin to driving any conventional manual, and actually, engineers instilled several attributes into the new transmission to ensure the driver feels like they’re using a manual rather than, uh, a manualized automatic(?). For starters, you can definitely stall the car. Just like in a mechanical manual, if you let the clutch out too quickly or lack a solid feel for the pedal’s pickup point, the car will jolt and the engine will shut off. Additionally, the system allows for absurdly high revs, so if you decide to force a shift despite it being suboptimal for performance, you can do that. However, while the driver can push the V12 to 9,500 rpm, the computer will prevent any shifts that could cause catastrophic failure, like a shift from sixth to first or other reckless maneuvers.
Can you drop the clutch and perform a burnout? Absolutely. In the appropriate driving mode, where the traction control system would permit wheelspin, burnouts à la manuale are achievable. Likewise, heel-and-toe shifting. Ferrari asserts that no manual would ever leave Maranello—by wire or otherwise—without providing the driver the opportunity to heel-and-toe. Executing that, however, relies on the driver’s skill.
The driver can seamlessly switch between manual and automatic while driving, but the manuale-by-wire system ultimately determines how it happens. For instance, if you’re traveling 90 mph on the highway in automatic mode and wish to engage manual mode by depressing the clutch and shifting into second gear, the system will prevent the shift lever from moving into that slot due to revs not aligning. This mirrors the experience of forcing a shift with paddles in current vehicles—at some point, the computer will deny it. In manual mode, the shift pattern engraved atop the shifter lights up orange, as do the gauge lights, to remind the driver to shift manually.
Where typically I’d dismiss it as simply marketing jargon, I genuinely believe that this transmission offers a perfect blend of both worlds, and it was during a real-world drive in a Ferrari that I had a significant aha moment about it. While piloting a 296 Speciale Aperta through the hills surrounding Maranello for several hours in 100-degree heat, I chose to remain in fully automatic mode on my return to the factory, primarily due to stop-and-go traffic and other bothersome scenarios. After spiritedly navigating charming winding roads, where manually shifting gears yielded immensely enjoyable performance, all I wanted to do was raise the AC, lean the seat back an inch, and let the car transition on its own while in a more relaxed driving mode. I had enjoyed an incredibly engaging experience with the paddles, so I was ready to ease back and let the computer manage the shifts.
Ultimately, the same concept applies to the 12Cilinidri Manuale. You receive the purity and intensity of a manual when desired, alongside the comfort and smoothness of an automatic when preferred. Moreover, having a 6.5-liter naturally aspirated V12 generating 819 horsepower is certainly impressive.
Only 1,499 units of the 12Cilinidri Manuale will be produced, all of which are coupe models (no Spiders), and every one will be a Tailor Made creation, signifying that owners must navigate Maranello’s bespoke program to acquire one of these—if there are still any production slots available. Pricing will commence at €590,000 in Italy.
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**2027 Ferrari 12-Cylinder Manual Transmission Revives Stick-Shift Tradition at Maranello**
In a daring initiative that has caught the eye of car aficionados globally, Ferrari has revealed the reintroduction of a manual transmission choice for its forthcoming 2027 12-cylinder model. This choice signifies a substantial revival of the stick-shift tradition at the legendary Maranello factory, which has always celebrated the essence of driving.
**A Nod to Heritage**
Ferrari has a rich legacy with manual transmissions, having crafted some of the most esteemed sports cars equipped with this engaging feature. The manual gearbox has historically been linked to the brand’s racing heritage and the authentic driving thrill it provides. Nevertheless, as the automotive industry transitioned toward automation and efficiency, the manual transmission grew increasingly scarce, particularly in high-performance vehicles. The 2027 model aims to rekindle that bond, appealing to purists and driving enthusiasts yearning for the tactile engagement and control that only a stick shift can deliver.
**Technical Innovations**
The 2027 Ferrari 12-cylinder will boast a cutting-edge manual transmission intended to heighten performance while upholding the brand’s dedication to innovation. Ferrari’s engineers have diligently developed a gearbox that not only offers the thrilling driving experience anticipated from a Ferrari but also adheres to contemporary performance benchmarks. This new manual transmission will integrate advanced materials and engineering methods to guarantee fluid shifts and resilience, all while being lightweight to complement the vehicle’s overall design.
**Performance and Specifications**
The core of the 2027 Ferrari will be its robust 12-cylinder engine, projected to deliver remarkable output, accelerating the vehicle from 0 to 60 mph in mere seconds. The manual transmission will be meticulously calibrated to enhance the engine’s performance attributes, enabling drivers to fully utilize the power range and experience the excitement of driving a naturally aspirated engine. The fusion of the 12-cylinder engine and manual gearbox is expected to provide a driving experience that is both thrilling and immersive.
**Market Impact and Enthusiast Reception**
The addition of a manual transmission in a new Ferrari model is likely to strongly resonate with car enthusiasts and collectors. As market preferences shift towards automatic and dual-clutch transmissions, the resurgence of the manual option is regarded as a bold declaration by Ferrari, reaffirming its commitment to the driving experience. This decision could inspire other manufacturers to reevaluate the feasibility of manual transmissions in their performance vehicles, igniting a renewed interest in stick-shift cars.
**Conclusion**
The 2027 Ferrari 12-cylinder manual transmission signifies a pivotal moment in the automotive landscape, celebrating the brand’s tradition while embracing modern engineering. By reviving the stick-shift legacy, Ferrari not only pays homage to its history but also caters to a dedicated segment of drivers who cherish the craft of manual shifting. As excitement builds for the reveal of this model, it is evident that Ferrari is set to leave a lasting mark on the future of performance driving.