One of the year’s most exciting unveilings – the Ferrari 12Cilindri Spider, a two-seater marvel that combines a naturally aspirated V12 engine with open-top driving. Recently presented at an exclusive event in Miami Beach, this new Ferrari is designed for aficionados of high-performance engines and the thrill of open-air motoring. The Ferrari 12Cilindri Spider offers an unparalleled driving experience with its sophisticated design and powerful engine, making it a unique addition to Ferrari’s illustrious lineup.
A nod to the past
The Ferrari 12Cilindri Spider draws inspiration from the open-topped Ferrari Gran Turismo models of the 1950s and ’60s. These iconic cars combined the unmatched performance of road-going racing cars with the ability to enjoy the sound of a 12-cylinder engine with the roof down, all while offering exceptional long-distance driving comfort. The design of the 12Cilindri Spider pays homage to this legacy, moving away from the muscular aesthetics of recent Ferrari models in favor of a more futuristic and streamlined look.
Powertrain: The heart of the beast
At the core of the Ferrari 12Cilindri Spider is the F140HD engine, a new version of Ferrari’s iconic naturally aspirated V12. This engine delivers 830 cv and can rev up to an astonishing 9500 rpm. The engineering team has employed several innovative solutions to achieve this performance, including modified components and advanced software borrowed from the 812 Competizione A.
To allow the V12 engine to rev so high, engineers reduced the weight and inertia of its components. They used titanium con rods, which are 40% lighter than their steel counterparts, and a different aluminum alloy for the pistons, making them lighter as well. The crankshaft was also rebalanced to be 3% lighter. Additionally, the valvetrain features sliding finger followers derived from Ferrari’s Formula 1 experience, designed to reduce mass and enhance high-performance valve lift profiles.
The engine’s modifications focus on optimising torque delivery under all operating conditions. The layout of the manifold and plenum is more compact, allowing power to be unleashed at high revs. A system of variable geometry inlet tracts continuously varies the length of the intake tract to maximise dynamic charge in the cylinder.
For the first time on a naturally aspirated engine, an innovative software strategy modifies the maximum torque available based on the selected gear. This ensures smooth, progressive power delivery as the transmission ratio increases, enhancing the driving experience. The introduction of new gear ratios further improves acceleration and gear shifting times, making the Ferrari 12Cilindri Spider a thrilling drive.
Design: A masterpiece of form and function
Exterior
Flavio Manzoni and the Ferrari Styling Centre design team have created a car that breaks from traditional Ferrari design codes. The 12Cilindri Spider features clean lines and seamlessly interconnected volumes. The ultra-clean flanks sweep back from a dihedral section, and the wings are sculpted with geometric precision, lending the car a monolithic aesthetic.
The sculpted bonnet incorporates the front wings, creating a smooth, uninterrupted surface. The front of the car has lost certain signature elements, such as elongated headlights and a traditional grille, in favor of new geometries and intersections. The headlights are integrated into a single wraparound band, from which the DRLs emerge like blades.
The rear of the car is dominated by two buttresses that create a bold, expressive character. The taillights are set into a blade that traverses the entire concave rear section, providing a signature theme. The designers have cleverly integrated technical and functional demands with beauty, using two active flaps integrated with the rear screen to create a seamless whole.
Interior
The interior of the Ferrari 12Cilindri Spider is split into three levels: the upper dash, the central area, and the footwells and seats. Each level is clearly defined, enhancing the dual-cockpit effect through color and material combinations. The design emphasises both elegance and sportiness, with sustainable materials such as Alcantara, which contains 65% recycled polyester.
The dashboard extends horizontally, with distinct binnacles for driver and passenger instrumentation and climate control vents. The central tunnel features a large sculptural gash emphasised by contrasting materials. The armrest extends into the medallion area, revealing metallic edging that intersects elegantly with the volumes.
Unlike its sibling, the Ferrari 12Cilindri Spider has no rear bench, as the space is used to stow the retractable hardtop. However, the solution chosen for the roof system leaves plenty of cabin space, making the car suitable for long journeys.
The new Human Machine Interface (HMI) features three displays: a central 10.25” touchscreen for main functions, a 15.6” driver display for driving information, and an 8.8” passenger display. The capacitive steering wheel with indented buttons ensures precise and intuitive command activation, even in sporty conditions. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, along with a wireless charging mat.
An optional high-end audio system developed with Burmester features 15 speakers and 1600 W, providing an exceptional in-car audio experience. The system’s Ring Tweeter technology minimises distortion, and the dual coil subwoofer delivers rich, full sound.
Aerodynamics and cooling
The Ferrari 12Cilindri Spider’s aerodynamics aim to produce a sleek, elegant car without compromising performance. Key elements include a 25-mm nolder on the boot lid and active aero flaps. The LD position allows air to flow uninterrupted over the bodywork, while the HD configuration generates maximum downforce, ensuring aerodynamic balance.
The car’s underbody is designed to maximize efficient vertical load generation and manage airflow from the central radiators. Vortex generators in the front underbody and a raised section ahead of the rear wheel shield the tires and channel airflow effectively.
The cooling system has been entirely redesigned to meet the heat dissipation requirements of the engine and ancillaries. Seven openings in the front bumper optimise front underbody evacuation. The side air intakes are divided to cool the engine oil radiator and brakes, while the engine bay air exits through two bonnet vents to reduce overpressure.
Vehicle dynamics
The Ferrari 12Cilindri Spider boasts state-of-the-art dynamic controls. Brake-by-wire technology allows for innovations such as ABS Evo, which debuted on the 296 GTB, and a 6D sensor that enhances the Virtual Short Wheelbase (PCV) 3.0 and Side Slip Control (SSC) 8.0 systems. These advancements reduce braking distances and improve braking repeatability.
The SSC 8.0 system integrates the car’s controllers, maximising overall performance. It uses grip recognition logic to estimate tire-road grip levels, even during normal driving conditions. The four-wheel independent steering system, which debuted on the 812 Competizione, improves yaw management and responsiveness during rapid direction changes. The Ferrari 12Cilindri Spider also benefits from a near-ideal weight distribution of 47.8% front and 52.2% rear, and a 20-mm reduction in wheelbase compared to the 812 GTS.
Tires and chassis
The Ferrari 12Cilindri Spider can be fitted with Michelin Pilot Sport S5 or Goodyear Eagle F1 Supersport tires, developed specifically for this model. These tires offer improved performance, dry grip levels, and stability, both on the limit and in wet conditions. They also provide better comfort and reduced rolling resistance compared to previous V12 berlinetta applications.
The all-aluminum chassis features a 20-mm reduction in wheelbase and improved torsional rigidity. Cast components such as the shock towers and A and C pillars were designed to reduce weight while enhancing rigidity. This results in more predictable dynamic behavior and improved suspension precision. The retractable hardtop, made of aluminum, opens or closes in just 14 seconds and can be operated at speeds up to 45 km/h.
For the first time, a secondary alloy with 100% recycled material has been used in the shock towers of the gearbox subframe. This innovation reduces CO2 emissions by 146 kg per car without compromising mechanical characteristics. The rear screen can be electrically adjusted for height, providing excellent cabin comfort when the roof is down.
Seven-year maintenance program
Ferrari offers an extended seven-year maintenance program for the 12Cilindri Spider, covering all regular maintenance for the first seven years of the car’s life. This program ensures that the car remains at peak performance and safety, providing peace of mind for owners. The maintenance program includes regular checks, original spare parts, and meticulous inspections by Ferrari-trained staff using the latest diagnostic tools. This exclusive service is available worldwide from all Official Ferrari Dealerships.
The Ferrari 12Cilindri Spider is a testament to Ferrari’s commitment to combining luxury, performance, and innovation. With its powerful V12 engine, advanced aerodynamics, and state-of-the-art dynamic controls, it offers an exhilarating driving experience. The meticulously designed interior and extensive customisation options ensure that each 12Cilindri Spider is a unique masterpiece, tailored to the tastes of its owner. This car is truly for the few, offering an unmatched blend of Ferrari’s rich heritage and modern engineering excellence.
For more information, visit ferrari.com/en-GB.
