New Ferraris with a manual gearbox and V12 are no longer produced, but this revived 550 Targa offers exactly that experience

New version of the legendary V12

Touring Superleggera has created many outstanding cars throughout its history, but this project based on Ferrari, the Veloce12 Aperta, may be the best of everything they have ever released. The exact price is not yet known, but production will be strictly limited, and undoubtedly, these cars will end up only in the most distinguished collections.

What has changed in the design

At the base of the car lies the Ferrari 550 — one of the best front-engine grand tourers of its era. Every square centimeter of the exterior has been updated or completely redesigned. The front end retains the features of the late 1990s original but has become more aggressive and modern.

Key changes include a new darkened radiator grille, a carbon fiber splitter, and additional air intakes. The central air intake on the hood has also been refined, and the headlights have been replaced with new ones. A similar story applies to the sides, where new door panels and fenders have appeared. However, the car truly makes a statement with its rear.

Targa top instead of a roof

The original fixed roof of the Ferrari 550 has been removed in favor of a targa, inspired by the Porsche 911. It consists of two removable panels that can be stored in the trunk. Touring Superleggera has also added a new rear window with a leather-trimmed storage compartment. Although the car looks great from the front, the rear is even more attractive thanks to the new LED lights.

Third version of the Veloce12

This is already the third version of the Veloce12 to appear in the last two years. In August 2024, Touring Superleggera introduced the original Veloce12 coupe based on the 550 model, and last year it was followed by the Veloce12 Barchetta.

Like the two previous variants, the Aperta retains the original 5.5-liter naturally aspirated V12 producing around 500 hp. It is rear-wheel drive, paired with a six-speed manual gearbox. Acceleration to 100 km/h takes 4.4 seconds.

Technical improvements and interior

The engine is complemented by upgraded Brembo brakes and adaptive TracTive suspension. Inside, the upholstery is finished in luxurious leather, combined with large areas of exposed aluminum.

This car is a vivid example of how a modern atelier can reinterpret a classic model without losing its soul. Preserving the original naturally aspirated V12 and manual gearbox makes it a true treasure for enthusiasts, as modern Ferraris have long abandoned such solutions. The limited production run and unique design guarantee that the Veloce12 Aperta will become not just a car, but an investment in the art of automotive engineering, which will only increase in value over time.

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