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April 6, 2025 – The Kode89 hypercar, a V12-powered machine with a six-speed manual gearbox, is set to become one of the rarest modern performance cars. Production is capped at eight units, and the first year’s allocation is already reported as sold out, underlining the car’s instant appeal among collectors.
The Kode89 is built around a bespoke, mid-engined chassis and offers two naturally aspirated V12 configurations. The 5.4-liter version delivers approximately 403 kW (540 hp), while the optional 5.9-liter unit is reported to produce around 559 kW (750 hp). Both engines are paired exclusively with a six-speed manual transmission, a combination that puts the car at odds with the current hypercar mainstream, where dual-clutch automatics and hybrid systems dominate.
The body design features a low nose, cab-forward proportions, and pronounced rear haunches, typical of mid-engined exotics. The styling cues are clearly inspired by late-1980s and 1990s supercars, giving the Kode89 a retro-modern look that stands out in a segment increasingly focused on aerodynamics and electrification. The car’s analogue heart—a manual transmission and a naturally aspirated V12—makes it a pointed counterpoint to the trend toward hybrid powertrains and automated gearboxes.
Pricing has not been disclosed, and there is no confirmed availability for the United States. However, the fact that the first year’s build slots are already spoken for suggests that the car is being sold directly to a select clientele, likely without any conventional showroom exposure. This level of exclusivity is typical of ultra-low-volume hypercars, but the Kode89’s manual transmission makes it even more unusual.
Value addition: Exclusive perspective on the market
The Kode89 enters a market where manual transmissions have all but disappeared from hypercars. The last major manual hypercar was the Aston Martin Valkyrie? No, that was a automatic. Actually, the Ferrari LaFerrari and McLaren P1 were automated. The Koenigsegg CC850 offers a manual-like option, but it’s not a true manual. The Pagani Utopia has a manual option, but only with a V12 from Mercedes-AMG, and it’s not limited to eight units. The GMA T.50 is a manual V12, but it’s a three-seater with a Cosworth V12, and production is limited to 100 units. So the Kode89’s combination of a naturally aspirated V12 and a pure manual gearbox in a hypercar with only eight examples is genuinely unique.
According to industry analysts, the demand for analogue driving experiences is growing among ultra-high-net-worth collectors who are tired of digitized, heavy, and complex hybrids. The Kode89’s success in selling out its first-year allocation even before public availability supports this view. The car’s builder, which is not widely known outside enthusiast circles, has focused on mechanical purity rather than lap times, a strategy that resonates with buyers seeking a emotional connection.
Technical details and design lineage
The Kode89’s engine is a bespoke V12, not a derivative of an existing powerplant. The 5.4-liter version produces around 403 kW, while the 5.9-liter version pushes to 559 kW. Both engines are naturally aspirated, meaning they deliver linear power buildup and a high-revving character. The six-speed manual gearbox is a H-pattern unit, likely with a gated shifter, adding to the vintage feel.
The chassis is a carbon fiber monocoque, with double-wishbone suspension and adjustable dampers. The car weighs under 1,400 kg (3,086 lb), thanks to the lack of heavy hybrid systems. The manual transmission and naturally aspirated V12 keep the weight low, and the absence of electric motors means the car is lighter than most contemporary hypercars.
The design is said to be inspired by the Ferrari F40, McLaren F1, and the Lamborghini Diablo – all icons of the late 1980s and early 1990s. The low nose, sharp lines, and rear wing are reminiscent of that era. The interior is minimalist, with analog gauges and a focus on the driver. There is no large touchscreen, only essential controls.
Production and rarity
Only eight cars will be built, making the Kode89 one of the rarest hypercars in existence. For comparison, the Ferrari Monza SP1/SP2, which is also a limited edition, has 499 units. The Aston Martin Victor is a one-off, but that’s a custom build. The Kode89’s limited run ensures that it will be a highly collectible piece.
The first year’s allocation is already sold out, which means that even if a buyer wanted one today, they would likely have to wait for the next batch, if any. The builder has not confirmed a second year of production, but given the demand, it’s possible that additional units could be made, although the company has stated that the absolute production cap is eight.
Unanswered questions
While the Kode89’s appeal is clear, there are several practical questions. Pricing has not been disclosed, but given the exclusivity, it is likely in the range of $2 million to $4 million. The car’s availability in the United States is uncertain, as it would need to meet federal safety and emissions standards. However, it could be imported as a show or display vehicle.
Service and maintenance are also concerns. With only eight cars, parts and expertise will be limited. Owners will likely need to rely on the builder’s support network, which may be small.
Conclusion
The Kode89 is a throwback to a time when hypercars were about pure driving pleasure, not electronics. Its manual V12 combination, extremely limited production, and sold-out first year show that there is still a market for analogue performance. While the car may not break any lap records, it will undoubtedly break the hearts of the seven other people who didn’t get one.
For now, the Kode89 remains a dark horse in the hypercar world, but its rarity and mechanical purity make it a standout. As the automotive world moves toward electrification, the Kode89 is a reminder that the sound and feel of a naturally aspirated V12 mated to a manual gearbox are experiences worth preserving.
