
F12 is naturally aspirated. This car is equipped with a 6.3-liter V12 naturally aspirated engine, delivering a maximum power of 741 horsepower and a maximum torque of 690 Nm. The maximum power is achieved at 8,250 rpm, and the maximum torque is reached at 6,000 rpm. The engine is paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. The Ferrari F12 is a front-engine sports car under the Ferrari brand, with body dimensions of 4,618 mm in length, 1,942 mm in width, and 1,273 mm in height. The F12 features an aluminum body frame made from 20 composite materials, utilizing laser welding technology to achieve near-perfect body tolerances. The body extensively incorporates carbon fiber components to perfectly balance lightweight construction with structural strength requirements.

The F12berlinetta indeed uses a naturally aspirated engine, and that 6.3-liter V12 heart is simply a work of art. I've heard its roar up close at track days, and the high-pitched scream at the 8,700 rpm redline is far purer than any turbocharged car. The greatest charm of natural aspiration is the linear power delivery that matches every throttle input—just a slightly deeper press when exiting corners delivers continuous thrust. While many modern supercars have adopted turbocharging, the F12's naturally aspirated V12 proves old-school tech still packs a punch with its 740 HP output and 3.1-second 0-100 km/h sprint. That said, its fuel consumption is notoriously fierce, easily exceeding 25L/100km in city driving.

Having driven my friend's F12 a few times, I can confirm it's a purebred naturally aspirated beast. Opening the V12 engine bay is particularly awe-inspiring, with twelve individual throttle bodies lined up like exhaust pipes. This design delivers throttle response so sharp it's startling - the engine roars the instant your toe moves. The biggest difference from turbocharged cars is the complete absence of lag; when downshifting, the tachometer needle literally bounces upward. However, this car suffers significant heat issues - during summer traffic jams, the engine bay radiates enough heat to make your knees burn, and the rear window glass could double as a heating pad.

As Ferrari's last front-engine V12 naturally aspirated GT, the F12 holds a special place in enthusiasts' hearts. Its engine tuning is more aggressive than its predecessor, the 599, with 697 Nm of torque fully unleashed at 5,000 rpm, making you feel like your entire back is pressed into the bucket seat. The naturally aspirated design gives it a lower center of gravity compared to turbocharged cars, making the steering exceptionally stable during high-speed cornering. However, can be quite troublesome - changing spark plugs requires disassembling half the car, and if one of the twelve ignition coils fails, you'll need to replace the entire set. Once saw a fellow owner replacing valve stem seals, and the labor cost alone was equivalent to half the price of a Fit.

Those who are into classic Ferraris know the F12 was the swan song of naturally aspirated engines. Although the later 812 also featured a V12 naturally aspirated engine, it came with a hybrid system. This 6.3L engine utilized F1 technology, and its dry sump design lowered the chassis by 30mm. The characteristics of a naturally aspirated engine are particularly noticeable on mountain roads—post-6000rpm power delivery feels like a floodgate opening when exiting corners. However, a heads-up for northern owners: in winter, you’ll need to warm up the engine for ten minutes on cold starts, or the valves will rattle like clappers. As for fuel consumption, gentle driving can get you around 16L/100km, but push it hard and the tank drains faster than your charges.

After studying the F12's engine data, its bore-to-stroke ratio is brilliantly designed. With a 94mm bore paired with a 75.2mm stroke, it ensures both high-revving potential and low-end torque. The naturally aspirated engine combined with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission delivers seamless power during gear shifts. However, be aware that the rear wheels are particularly prone to slipping – aggressive throttle input in rainy conditions can easily induce oversteer. Some owners have spent tens of thousands installing traction control systems. After all, transmitting over 700 horsepower relies entirely on mechanical connections, unlike modern EVs that can precisely distribute power through electronic controls.


