Key Highlights:
- Scuderia Ferrari drivers Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc evaluated the limited-edition Ferrari 12Cilindri Manuale during track tests at Fiorano.
- The high-performance supercar features an 830-hp 6.5-litre naturally aspirated V12 engine and Ferrari’s proprietary Manuale-By-Wire system.
- Production of the special series super GT is strictly capped at 1,499 units worldwide following its July 2026 debut.
Formula 1 Teammates Put the Ferrari 12Cilindri Manuale to the Test at Fiorano
Scuderia Ferrari Formula 1 drivers Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc took to the Fiorano circuit to evaluate the Ferrari 12Cilindri Manuale. The track session offered both drivers an opportunity to sample the Italian manufacturer’s new super GT and provide feedback on its dynamic capabilities. The front-mid-engine machine is motivated by a 6.5-litre naturally aspirated V12 powertrain capable of producing 830 hp, pairing classic performance architecture with modern technological innovations.
Unveiled in July 2026 as an exclusive limited-edition version of the standard Ferrari 12Cilindri, the vehicle introduces Ferrari’s newly developed Manuale-By-Wire system. According to the manufacturer, the setup brings a raw physical intensity back to the heart of the V12 experience.
The configuration replicates the traditional driving engagement of a manual gearbox while retaining the mechanical advantages and rapid response of Ferrari’s dual-clutch transmission. Complementing the technical setup are integrated active aerodynamics, a clutch-by-wire pedal, and heritage-inspired touches, including a round aluminium gear knob set into a classic six-speed shift gate.
Driver Reactions and On-Track Impressions
Charles Leclerc was the first to take the driver’s seat around the private Fiorano test track, accompanied by his seven-time Formula 1 World Champion teammate in the passenger seat. During the test, Leclerc turned to Hamilton and remarked, You’re so chill. You are the chill guy!
After completing his initial stint and stepping out of the cockpit, Leclerc concluded simply: Amazing!
When Hamilton took over driving duties with Leclerc alongside, the duo traded enthusiastic feedback as the British driver navigated the circuit. Reflecting on the sports car’s behavior following his stint, Hamilton exclaimed, Fantastico! It’s very cool. Wow. It’s so much fun to drive.
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A video capturing the track session published on Ferrari’s official YouTube channel quickly garnered significant fan interest, surpassing 200,000 views shortly after its release. Fans noted the relaxed dynamic between the teammates, with one writing, This has to be one of the first videos in a while where the drivers driving the new car are actually happy, especially Leclerc. Nice job Ferrari on producing a Magnificent car,
while another commented, So cool to see the boys having fun driving that Ferrari!
Additional viewers echoed praise for the styling, posting, What a beautiful and amazing machine! Love the 12Cilindri Manuale. It would be so incredible to drive it around Fiorano,
and In my opinion, one of the most handsome Ferraris available.
Why This Matters
The track test highlights Ferrari’s ongoing integration of its premier Formula 1 talent into the development and promotion of its road-going grand tourers. As performance car manufacturers navigate shifting emissions targets and powertrain electrification, the Ferrari 12Cilindri Manuale represents an effort to maintain purist appeal by preserving high-revving naturally aspirated V12 engines. By pairing that powerplant with the simulated mechanical feel of the Manuale-By-Wire shift gate and dual-clutch hardware, Ferrari aims to bridge traditional driving engagement with contemporary performance metrics across its limited-run series, of which only 1,499 examples will ever be produced.
Frequently Asked Questions
What engine powers the Ferrari 12Cilindri Manuale?
The Ferrari 12Cilindri Manuale is powered by a front-mid-mounted 6.5-litre naturally aspirated V12 engine that delivers 830 hp.
How does the Manuale-By-Wire transmission work?
Developed entirely in-house by Ferrari, the Manuale-By-Wire system features a six-speed shift gate, a round aluminium gear knob, and a clutch-by-wire pedal to provide the tactical feel of a traditional manual transmission while working in tandem with the car’s dual-clutch gearbox.
How many units of the Ferrari 12Cilindri Manuale will be produced?
Ferrari is restricting production of the limited-edition special series model to exactly 1,499 units globally.
