Ferrari’s new open-top V12 gloriously celebrates history and futurism.
Even as it becomes more of an endangered species in the automotive industry, The V12 engine is nothing short of integral to Ferrari’s presence as a manufacturer. As an engine, its sound, its performance, and its exclusivity have been one of the most important parts of what sets Ferrari apart from other manufacturers in excellence, and Ferrari remains committed to preserving the V12 engine as its presence in the automotive industry at large continues to dwindle.
Ferrari’s V12-powered lineup has included the 812 Superfast, 812 GTS, and more recently the Purosangue SUV, but the introduction of the new Ferrari 12Cilindri supercar, set against the backdrop of the sunshine, coastal scenery, and excitement of the impending 2024 Miami Grand Prix, saw the beginning of a new era of V12-powered Ferrari supercar masterpieces.
Alongside the 12Cilindri coupe, Ferrari is letting the sky in and creating open-air thrills with the addition of the new 12Cilindri Spider to the lineup. Marking 70 years of Ferrari’s presence in the US, the 12Cilindri Spider, like its coupe counterpart, features a futurized interpretation of retro-inspired design, referencing the proportions and design features 50s and 60s Ferrari grand touring models, and even evoking one of Ferrari’s most iconic open-top front-mounted V12 cars: the Ferrari Daytona.
With nearly 819 horsepower, its V12 engine, the new F140HD, revs to a soaring 9,500 rpm, promising a life-changing sound experience, and the 6.5-liter engine also remains committed to being naturally aspirated. Power gets sent to the wheels via Ferrari’s 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Meanwhile, Ferrari ensures the excellent dynamics of the 12Cilindri Spider with rear-wheel steering, a 47.8%-52.2% front-rear weight distribution, and a 20-millimeter reduction in wheelbase length compared to the 812 GTS.
The design of the car features beautiful, clean, uninterrupted shapes, with a futuristic look that is inspired by Ferrari’s long history of classics. Setting it apart from the 12Cilindri coupe is its buttresses at the rear, and advanced, performance-oriented aerodynamics are implemented throughout while still maintaining an elegant look, for example, opting for a pair of active flaps as opposed to a spoiler.
The interior is beautiful, luxurious, and sport-focused in Ferrari’s signature style, with convenience taking shape in the form of a 10.25-inch touchscreen, a 15.6-inch driver display, and an 8.8-inch passenger screen. Apple Car Play and Android Auto compatibility ensure ease of use, and a 15-speaker, 1600 W Burmester audio system provides beautiful sound besides that of the incredibly high-revving V12.
Along with the new 12Cilindri coupe, the new Ferrari 12Cilindri Spider is here to prove that Ferrari is far from ready to give up on the V12 just yet. Its naturally-aspirated high-revving engine is an ode to Ferrari’s 70 years of history in the US and its entire history of automotive excellence, and in Spider form, the new grand touring masterpiece is proof that the wind in your hair and a V12 wail is something that simply can’t be replaced.
Image Source: Ferrari
