International Engine of the Year 2013 awards

For the past two years Ferrari and its flat-plane V8, as found in its 458 Italia, have dominated the Above 4-litre category. This year, though, that benchmark supercar has finally been humbled – by its new, bigger, more powerful brother, the 6.3-litre V12 from the F12 Berlinetta.

Originating from one of the most desirable cars of all time, the engine has its roots in the Enzo, in 6-litre format, before it was increased in displacement to 6,262cc and direct injection incorporated for the AWD FF. In its latest iteration, the unit has undergone further revisions to produce deeply impressive performance figures of 740ps and 690Nm of torque, while achieving substantial drops in CO2 and fuel consumption.

This has all been realised by Ferrari engineers increasing the compression ratio of the naturally aspirated 65° V12 to 13.5:1; equipping it with a new ECU that uses ionisation currents to control the ignition timing; adding stop/start functionality; and incorporating a new ‘smart’ alternator that only charges the battery when the car isn’t under load. Exotic coatings such as PVD and DLC adorn the engine’s moving internals, reducing friction and consumption while boosting performance and durability.

What this means in the real world is a 30% reduction in fuel consumption and emissions.

The overall driving experience is enhanced by the seven-speed dualclutch transmission, with integrated E-Diff3 and equal length manifolds, delivering that unmistakable, charismatic Ferrari howl all the way to almost 9,000rpm.

In toppling the 458 Italia, the F12 picked up numerous fans among the judges. “When we do not limit the displacement, naturally aspirated engines shine in all areas,” enthused French jury member Thierry Etienne. “With a specific output of 120ps per litre and a redline at 8,700rpm, this monumental Ferrari V12 is a true masterpiece."

International Engine of the Year Awards 2013