Ferrari brings manual gearbox back for special £500k 12Cilindri
The centre console has also been redesigned, with minimalistic buttons for automatic operation and a subtle floating effect for the aluminium gates. The ball gearknob shows the traditional shift pattern, only backlit in white or orange, depending on mode.
Conceptual work for the system began in 2022, with the development team using a rig to perfect the ergonomics of the pedal box and the nature of the shift, which is broadly modelled on a 599 GTB’s.
As well as the new transmission, every Manuale will come with silver Scuderia shields, a model designation on the flanks, and faint, Daytona-style pinstripes across the nose and on the active aero winglets on the rear deck.
All examples will also be offered as part of Ferrari’s Tailor Made programme, with special paint and upholstery colours available.
Deliveries will begin in early 2027, with Galliera conceding the Manuale is effectively already sold out.
How does it feel?
Only when we drive the Manuale will the success or otherwise of Ferrari’s unusual approach become clear. For now, we’ve had to make do with a rummage of the controls in a static car.
There’s no question that the anodised gearknob, into which the illuminated gate pattern is seamlessly sunk, feels evocative in the palm. The varying, mechanically generated resistance and elasticity of the throw are also convincing, weight building and ebbing away as you would expect thanks to the system rockers, springs and a solenoid that exists below.
The throw itself is also accompanied with a metallic ‘zing’ more pronounced than it ever was in period. Perhaps the throw is a touch more economical than it was the last time a V12 Ferrari came with a manual ’box, but this will better suit the 12Cilindri’s throttle response and immediate steering. It’s unlikely to make the driving experience feel baggy or anachronistic.
In the footwell, the clutch action is lighter than it is in the manual V12s of yore but only marginally. It still needs 10-15kg of force and has a smooth, linear motion.
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