Ferrari has once again redefined automotive design with the introduction of the 12Cilindri, a radical departure from its storied past of V12 front-mid-engined models. This new model showcases a bold, futuristic design language that sets it apart from its predecessors, while still paying homage to Ferrari’s iconic lineage.
The 12Cilindri marks a significant shift in Ferrari’s design philosophy. While its front end may subtly nod to the classic Ferrari Daytona, the overall design focuses more on function informing form rather than celebrating past glories. Ferrari Chief Design Officer Flavio Manzoni explains, “With the Ferrari 12Cilindri, we wanted to radically transform the stylistic codes of Ferrari’s previous mid-front-engined V12s. It marks a clear departure from the sculptural language of its predecessor. One of the objectives was to explore design languages only tangentially related to the car world.”
Understanding the 12Cilindri’s place within Ferrari’s lineup is crucial. Andrea Militello, Head of Sports Cars Exterior Design, points out that the launch of the 812 Superfast was once the pinnacle of Ferrari’s performance cars. However, with the SF90 Stradale and SF90 XX Stradale surpassing it in power, new opportunities arose to approach design in a more sophisticated, holistic manner. “The 12Cilindri has a very strong legacy but the inspiration is definitely not from the past. Instead, we took a disruptive approach, to take this car and project it far into the future, almost a spaceship design, almost sci-fi,” says Militello.
The 12Cilindri introduces a new formal design rigour, with a more functional approach to form. The muscular wings, clear geometric precision, and ultra-clean flanks all contribute to its futuristic aesthetic. One of the most striking elements is the nose, which abandons the traditional grille-and-lights setup for a single wraparound band that incorporates all lighting functions, with daytime running lights emerging like blades.
Contrary to simply reinterpreting the legendary Ferrari 365 GTB/4 ‘Daytona’, the 12Cilindri’s design is driven by functionality. The cabin shape, geometrical bridge connecting the rear wings, and the integrated rear screen and lighting system all reflect this principle.
The rear end design of the 12Cilindri is particularly noteworthy. Manzoni highlights the integration of two active aerodynamic flaps with the rear screen, creating a signature delta theme that melds technical and functional demands with beauty. The coupe’s sister model, the 12Cilindri Spider, adopts a similar approach, with a black element linking the rear end to the aerodynamic flaps and expressive buttresses.
The creation process for the 12Cilindri involved meticulous clay modelling and design discussions, reflecting Ferrari’s commitment to precision and innovation. This new model is not merely an evolution but a bold step forward, demonstrating Ferrari’s vision of the future. By embracing radical new thinking and eschewing nostalgia, the 12Cilindri sets a new standard for Ferrari design, showcasing a future-oriented approach that redefines what it means to be a Ferrari.
In the 12Cilindri, Ferrari expresses a completely fresh design ethos, one that boldly embraces the future while maintaining the brand’s legendary status in automotive history. This approach, more than ever, illustrates Ferrari’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of design and performance.
Elizabeth Puckett 
Steven Symes