Rare Ferrari F12tdf Prototype with 15 MPH Cap Could Hit $1 Million at Auction

In an intriguing twist on Ferrari’s renowned legacy of speed, a prototype designed for the development of the F12tdf is currently capturing the imagination of car enthusiasts in an auction on Bring a Trailer. Despite its lineage, this particular vehicle breaks the mold with a top speed limited to just 15 mph. Originating as a modified F12 Berlinetta, this test mule was instrumental in the development of the F12tdf, a variant dedicated to track dominance, signified by its namesake – Tour de France.

Equipped with a 6.3-liter V-12 engine and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission that powers the rear axle, along with a limited-slip differential, this prototype boasts significant pedigree. In its prime, the engine delivered a staggering 730 horsepower in the standard F12 Berlinetta configuration. However, post-development detuning has drastically reduced its capabilities, leading to its current top speed limitation.

The vehicle’s prototype status means it lacks the polished refinement typical of Ferrari, yet it retains an undeniable allure. Its gloss black exterior, adorned with white vinyl roundels and a prominent Pirelli graphic, hints at its racing potential. Inside, the cabin mirrors that of the F12 Berlinetta, featuring carbon-fiber trim and a leather steering wheel, albeit with the addition of a makeshift center console equipped with kill switches. A notable “Vehicle Not Street Legal” designation underscores its prototype nature and its restriction from public road use.

With a digital odometer reading of 20,000 miles, predominantly accrued during its tenure as a test vehicle, the prototype was imported to the U.S. following the F12tdf’s production phase. Currently housed as a display piece in a Costa Mesa, California dealership, the car’s future remains a topic of speculation. Potential exists for retuning to unlock its original performance, though any operational use would be confined to track settings.

As the auction progresses, interest has surged, with bids reaching $450,000 and anticipation building for a possible final hammer price near or above $1 million.