Thirty years ago, Ferrari transformed the manual transmission into an automated version. Today, it has reintroduced manual characteristics to the automatic transmission.

      Ferrari

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      As I approach four decades of life, I’ve observed that over time, trends—both positive and negative—tend to resurface. I recall in 1997 when Ferrari introduced its semi-automatic, paddle-shifter transmission from its Formula 1 vehicles into a street model. That vehicle was the F355 F1, undoubtedly one of the most aesthetically pleasing cavallinos of the modern era, and it also marked a significant advancement in performance.

      Ferrari is now reviving the manual transmission at its Maranello headquarters, specifically for its flagship V12 model, the new 12Cilindri Manuale. As you might have seen, it’s not a classic manual, but what Ferrari refers to as a manuale-by-wire. In essence, there exists a physical, traditionally sprung clutch pedal paired with a six-speed gate, accompanied by a distinctly Ferrari shift lever. Nonetheless, these two components are not mechanically connected to the transmission—only electronically. It’s essentially a system we’ve seen for years, but instead of paddle shifters, we have a shift lever and a clutch.

      Ferrari

      Interestingly, when the 355 debuted with the semi-automatic transmission, there was minimal backlash from fans, likely because Ferrari still offered a conventional manual option. This isn't to say paddle shifters didn’t face criticism upon their introduction in F1; racing icon Allan McNish shared with me earlier this year, “Now cars come with paddle shifters, but my first F1 test featured an H-pattern, eight-speed gearbox with a foot clutch. When paddle shifters emerged, people grumbled that it wasn't true racing and that drivers lacked control with the new gearbox.”

      Similar to the Luce EV, the internet has reacted negatively to Ferrari’s “fake manual,” and honestly, I don't quite understand the opposition. I can see why some dislike the EV and feel it doesn’t align with Ferrari’s spirit. But providing what’s basically a manual experience in a front-engine Ferrari with a naturally aspirated V12 that revs nearly to 10,000 RPM—what’s not to appreciate? I’ve driven the 12Cilindri Spider extensively, and if given the chance to drive it with a stick shift (whether by-wire or not), you can bet your mother’s chicken pot pie recipe I would emphatically say, “absolutely.”

      Could Ferrari have developed an entirely new transmission with a traditional manual linkage for the 12Cilindri Manuale? Yes, perhaps. They definitely have the expertise and production capability. Would it have been sensible? Certainly not. With only 1,499 units set to be produced, all through Maranello’s Tailor Made program, that’s simply too few to justify the development of a completely new transmission. While some might believe that’s what should have happened, the financial justification isn’t there. So, it boils down to manuale-by-wire or nothing? Given that most are accustomed to—and enjoy—using paddle shifters in modern supercars, why is it difficult to embrace the stick shift?

      Ferrari

      Three decades ago, Ferrari pioneered the automation of the manual transmission, providing its cars a performance edge. This was done to be at the forefront of technology and to draw parallels between its street and racing cars, aware that numerous clients would relish the chance to “play” F1 driver in their rosso corsa vehicles. It proved effective. Today, this is the standard transmission in high-performance automobiles and virtually all race vehicles.

      Presently, as “playing F1 driver” has become the norm in every new supercar—with all featuring paddle shifters—Ferrari is figuratively sacrificing performance for the sake of driving enjoyment. It recognizes that while a lap around the track may be slightly slower with the manual, it is unconcerned. It understands that some customers yearn for that nostalgic connection, even if it results in losing a tenth or two in some performance measurement. When I inquired whether Ferrari would consider this for future models, it stated that for now, this would be the only car equipped with such a system.

      Call it a fake manual if you wish, and there’s some truth to that. However, if the choice is between this or nothing, I believe we should commend the effort, even if most of us won’t be among the fortunate 1,499 who receive a 12Cilindri Manuale.

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