10 FASTEST CARS WITH A V-12 ENGINE EVER BUILT

In the world of automotive engineering, the V-12 engine is a monument of power, refinement, and rich racing heritage. From the roaring circuits of Le Mans to the narrow streets of Monaco, V-12-powered machines have screamed through the tunnels of automotive history. Yet, as technology evolves, so do the machines that harness it. Modern hypercars, such as the Aston Martin Valkyrie, blend traditional V-12 grunt with cutting-edge hybrid systems, pushing the boundaries of performance like never before.

However, among these technological marvels, echoes of past greatness still resonate. The McLaren F1, a masterpiece of its time, held the crown of the world's fastest production car for over two decades, its naturally aspirated AMG V-12 heart propelling it to an astounding top speed of 240.1 MPH. Such legends serve as a chapter in the history books of what makes the V-12 configuration one of the most incredible engines out there.

Yet, in today's automotive landscape, the V-12 is a rarity, a relic of a bygone era as manufacturers increasingly favor smaller, more power-dense engines. The list of the fastest V-12 cars ever built exists not only as a celebration of engineering greatness but also as a reminder of the raw power and emotion that only a V-12 engine can provide. From the timeless elegance of the Aston Martin One-77 to the ferocious speed of the Ferrari FXX Evoluzione, these machines represent a new height in engine development, scratching the surface of what can be achieved using a glorious V-12 engine.

1998-1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR Straenversion

Top Speed: 205 MPH

The road-legal Mercedes CLK GTR Straßenversion, similar to the Porsche 911 GT1, is one of the rarest birds on this list with a V-12 engine. Only 28 units were produced from 1997 to 1999 for the road-going version of the racecar. Crafted at Affalterbach by AMG in collaboration with HWA, this elite machine shared many components with its race car counterpart, including suspension and carbon-fiber monocoque. There are only two versions, one coupe and one roadster. One of each belongs to the illustrious Sultan of Brunei’s car collection.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Mercedes)

Praised by racing veteran Paul Frère, the CLK GTR Straßenversion showcased impressive performance and engineering refinement, despite challenges like a cramped cockpit and urban maneuverability issues. Powered by a staggering 6.9-liter V-12 engine, it accelerated from 0 to 60 MPH in 3.8 seconds and had a monstrous top speed of 205 MPH.

The top speed is nothing to scoff at given the car has an impressive amount of downforce, and is well-deserving of the number 10 spot on this list. Despite its non-compliance with US safety regulations, its exorbitant price tag and racing pedigree solidified its position alongside its GT1 counterparts as a revered icon of 90s sportscar racing.

Pros

• Absolute weapon of a racecar that is street-legal
• Show-stopping looks and earth-moving performance
• ABS, Air-conditioning, and audio system even though it is largely a racecar

Cons

• 28 produced, 2 prototypes, 20 coupes, 6 roadsters
• Homologated version of CLK GTR, extremely rare part availability
• Non-synchronous transmission makes street driving very difficult

2018-2023 Aston Martin DBS Superleggera

Top Speed: 211 MPH

Offered as either a hardtop coupe or a ragtop convertible Volante, the Aston Martin DBS Superleggera exudes luxury and performance in equal measure. Despite its name meaning "super light" in Italian, this grand tourer is far from featherweight. Beneath its elegant exterior lies a behemoth 715-hp V-12 engine, swiftly moving the DBS Superleggera to a top speed of 211 mph.

While it is thrilling on winding roads, it's just as capable of cruising along the seaside in refined comfort. Though its handling may not match the razor-sharp precision of some supercars in its price range, the DBS Superleggera begs drivers to slow down and appreciate the sweet sounds of a proper V-12.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Aston Martin)

As the successor to the second-generation Vanquish, the Aston Martin DBS Superleggera builds upon the success of their top trim models. With a twin-turbocharged 5.2-liter V-12 engine delivering 715 horsepower and 664 pound-feet of torque, this GT car is holding back an Olympic sprinter of a drivetrain. Enhanced aerodynamics, including an F1-inspired double-diffuser, contribute to its remarkable stability, generating 397 pounds of downforce.

With impressive acceleration of 0 to 60 MPH in just 3.4 seconds and a top speed of 211 MPH, the DBS Superleggera offers drivers a range of driving modes to tailor its responsiveness to their preferences, from GT to Sport Plus, and everything in between to enjoy the glorious engine.

Pros

• Twin-turbocharged V-12
• Refined and luxurious performance
• More widely available than most on this list

Cons

• Subdued exhaust note through the turbochargers
• Dull handling compared to competitors
• Fairly heavy at 3,732 pounds

2021 Ferrari 812 Competizione

Top Speed: 212 MPH

In 2021, Ferrari unveiled the 812 Competizione, a pure display of raw, unadulterated power, marking a significant evolution from its predecessor, the F12 Berlinetta, reminiscent of the transition to the Ferrari F12tdf. Adding another 30 horsepower, a reduction in weight by around 83 pounds, and a suite of extreme aerodynamic enhancements, the 812 Competizione represents the last hurrah of Ferrari's non-hybrid V-12 lineage. Utilizing four-wheel independent steering, the car delivers unparalleled handling dynamics, complemented by a 5% improvement in gearshift times over its predecessor.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Ferrari)

Available in two variants – a coupe limited to 999 units and a Targa version named "812 Competizione A," denoting its open-top configuration – Ferrari's last offering of the non-hybrid V-12 is a swan song to a time long past. With its menacing aesthetics and race-inspired lineage, the 812 Competizione balls up all of Ferrari’s V-12 engine expertise from racing into a final naturally aspirated road car.

As the automotive industry shifts towards hybridization and forced induction, the 812 Competizione may symbolize the culmination of an era, representing the last of Ferrari's naturally aspirated V-12 supercars, leaving as a fitting conclusion to a rich lineage of twelve-cylinder marvels.

Pros

• Four-wheel steering
• Lightning-fast and technical
• Hardcore grand tourer

Cons

• Last non-hyrbid V12 from Ferrari
• Limited to 999 units
• Very flashy for a grand touring road car

2009-2010 Lamborghini Murcielago SV

Top Speed: 213 MPH

Introduced as the ultimate iteration of the Lamborghini Murcielago, the 2009-2010 Murcielago SV, short for SuperVeloce, is the most unforgiving and ferocious version of the bull. Its 6.5-liter V-12 engine churns out an impressive 661 horsepower and 487 pound-feet of torque, thanks to revised valve timing and an upgraded intake system. Emphasizing aerodynamic enhancements, the SV makes use of enlarged air intakes for improved brake cooling and an extended front spoiler for enhanced downforce. Crafted with carbon fiber components, the SV sheds 220 pounds of weight, resulting in a power-to-weight ratio of 429 horsepower per ton. The interior, trimmed in Alcántara, further contributes to weight reduction while giving an air of luxury.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Lamborghini)

Equipped with standard 15-inch carbon-ceramic disc brakes with six-piston calipers, the Murcielago SV can stop on a dime. The quick stopping power means you get to stamp back on the gas pedal to hear the glorious Lamborghini V-12 exhaust note. With a top speed of 213 MPH with the optional smaller spoiler, or 209 MPH with the standard Aeropack spoiler, the SV rightfully earns its spot on this list of high-speed V-12 cars. Despite initial plans for a limited production run of 350 units, production ceased earlier than anticipated, with only 261 units found as of 2023, making each Murcielago SV a coveted rarity among enthusiasts.

Pros

• Ultimate poster car
• Incredible symphony of twelve-cylinders
• Mid-engine layout

Cons

• Increasingly rare, especially manual gearbox versions
• Very stiff suspension
• Highest top speed limited to cars with smaller spoilers

2013-2018 Ferrari LaFerrari

Top Speed: 217 MPH

Unveiled as the most definitive Ferrari ever, the 2013-2018 Ferrari LaFerrari, literally Ferrari The Ferrari, rewrote automotive performance with its groundbreaking hybrid technology. This hybrid marvel combines a monstrous 6.3-liter V-12 engine generating a staggering 789 horsepower with a 161-horsepower KERS unit, resulting in a mind-blowing combined output of 950 horsepower and 664 pound-feet of torque. Drivers quickly click through a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, where the LaFerrari achieves seamless power delivery assisted by the electric motor filling in gaps.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Ferrari)

Pushing it from 0 to 60 MPH in an eye-watering 2.6 seconds and reaching a top speed of 218 mph, the LaFerrari lives up to its redundant name. Capitalizing on Formula One technology, the LaFerrari has stability control, electronic traction control, and active aerodynamics, all managed by 21 onboard computers to maximize performance on both road and track.

Built upon a lightweight carbon fiber monocoque structure developed by Ferrari's former F1 technical director Rory Byrne, the LaFerrari combines unfathomable torsional rigidity with cutting-edge aerodynamics for optimal handling and stability. With its iconic design featuring integrated controls on the steering wheel and (at the time) a futuristic instrument display, the LaFerrari carried the torch into the new era of hybrid supercars for the Ferrari brand.

Pros

• Active aerodynamic functions
• KERS hybrid system from F1 car
• Convertible Aperta option

Cons

• Had to own other Ferrari hero cars to be considered for buying one
• Most expensive holy-trinity supercar
• First iteration of a hybrid V-12 from Ferrari

Aston Martin One-77

Top Speed: 220 MPH

Emerging as one of the British automakers' finest creations, the Aston Martin One-77, introduced between 2009 and 2010, stands as one of the fastest V-12 cars to ever grace the roads. Built with a full carbon fiber monocoque chassis and handcrafted aluminum body, the One-77 houses a massive 7.3-liter V-12 engine, producing a breathtaking 750 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque.

Renowned as the most powerful naturally aspirated engine of its time, the One-77 accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds, reaching a top speed of 220 mph. Complementing its ferocious powertrain, the One-77 uses a 6-speed automated manual transmission and height-adjustable pushrod suspension, allowing for a very precise driving experience.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Aston Martin)

With its bespoke design and meticulous attention to detail, the Aston Martin One-77 exudes an air of elegance not commonly seen by cars on this list. With a production run limited to just 77 units, each devoutly handcrafted to perfection, the One-77 commands attention with its distinctive Aston Martin cues, including a wide-mouth grille, sweptback headlights, and a long hood.

Although it had a hefty price tag of 1.18 million dollars, the One-77 brought a James Bond aura to the world’s fastest road cars. As a true testament to Aston Martin's commitment to excellence, the One-77 remains the fastest and largest front-engine V-12 production vehicle in the world.

Pros

• Fastest front-engine V-12 car
• Largest displacement V-12 production car
• James Bond styling

Cons

• Limited to 77 units
• Completely handcrafted parts are expensive to buy
• Automated gearbox is finicky

Lamborghini Aventador Ultimae

Top Speed: 221 MPH

Emerging as the ultimate swan song to Lamborghini's iconic Aventador lineage, the Lamborghini Aventador Ultimae, announced in July 2021, is the final edition of the wildly successful supercar. Limited to a mere 600 units, comprising 350 Coupés and 250 Roadsters, the Ultimae opens the door for the Huracan to shine and closes a chapter of Lamborghini's decades-long legacy.

Featuring the standard attributes of the Aventador S and SVJ, the Ultimae is powered by a mighty 6.5-liter V-12 engine, delivering a staggering 769 horsepower and 531 pound-feet of torque. The engine package is capable of catapulting this automotive masterpiece from 0 to 62 MPH in a lightining-quick 2.84 seconds, with the top speed being a blistering 221 MPH.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Lamborghini)

In classic Lamborghini flair, the Aventador Ultimae is built with incredible features of crushed carbon, wild splitters, and fighter jet aggressiveness. Despite its ferocious power, the Ultimae has an air of exquisite attention to detail and refinement, something you don’t always see in Lamborghini’s special cars. As the final chapter in the Aventador's storied legacy, the Ultimae serves as a fitting tribute to Lamborghini's success surrounding this supercar.

Pros

• Final edition of the Aventador
• All-wheel drive grip
• 600 units available

Cons

• Automated manual transmission
• Not as flashy as you would expect for a Lamborghini special car
• Same drivetrain as the SVJ

McLaren F1

Top Speed: 240 MPH

What is known as the crown jewel of McLaren's automotive legacy, the McLaren F1 is an absolute masterpiece in every way possible. Conceived by visionary designer Gordon Murray and backed by the expertise of Ron Dennis, the F1 is the pièce de résistance of McLaren road cars.

Powered by the legendary BMW S70/2 V12 engine, the F1 set the bar for supercars upon its release. With a limited 106 units produced between 1992 and 1998, the McLaren F1 remains one of the most coveted vehicles in automotive history. Its groundbreaking design, featuring a central driving position flanked by two passenger seats, gives the best seating position possible to connect with the supercar.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from McLaren)

Despite its age, the F1's lightweight construction and aerodynamic innovations still make it one of the best-performing vehicles in the world. The McLaren F1 is timeless, from being the first car to use a carbon fiber monocoque chassis, to setting the world record for fastest production car and holding that record for 24 years. It truly is one of the greatest vehicles to ever exist. As the ultimate road-going masterpiece, each McLaren F1 represents the best in automotive innovation and serves as the building block for all other manufacturers to baseline their best designs.

Pros

• Top speed record holder for 24 years
• Center seat driving position
• McLaren will fly out service techs to the car even to this day

Cons

• Incredibly coveted, making it rare to purchase one
• Expensive to maintain
• Modern successors perfected the formula

Ferrari FXX Evoluzione

Top Speed: 249 MPH

What is known as the first iteration of a groundbreaking initiative by Ferrari to gather invaluable insights from discerning clients and further advance their automotive technology, the Ferrari FXX Evoluzione represents a convergence of cutting-edge engineering and track-focused performance. Derived from the Enzo's architecture, the FXX Evoluzione features a meticulously tuned 6.3-liter engine, delivering an awe-inspiring power output of approximately 848 horsepower. Every aspect of the car, from its bespoke gearbox to custom-designed tires and brakes, is built to push the boundaries of performance with an unrivaled driving experience.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Ferrari)

Reserved exclusively for a select group of Ferrari's most esteemed clients, the FXX program offers participants the opportunity to unleash the full potential of this automotive marvel on some of the world's most renowned circuits. Originally priced at $1.4 million, the FXX Evoluzione is not merely a car but an automotive experience. With its race-bred pedigree and uncompromising focus on performance, the Ferrari FXX Evoluzione is one of the most absurd but incredible Ferrari’s ever produced.

Pros

• No holds-barred Ferrari performance
• Nearly 850 N/A horsepower on tap
• Ferrari race team to maintain car

Cons

• "Track use only" vehicle
• Ferrari technically owns the car even after you purchase it
• Completely raw racecar

Aston Martin Valkyrie AMR-Pro

Top Speed: 250 MPH

Taking our top spot on this list as the ultimate track-focused evolution of Aston Martin's hypercar masterpiece, the Valkyrie AMR Pro is the fastest vehicle fitted with a V-12 engine. Born from a collaboration with Red Bull Racing, this hypercar pushes the boundaries of what's achievable on the track. Powered by a Cosworth-sourced 6.5-liter V-12 engine, the Valkyrie AMR Pro unleashes over 1,100 horsepower, propelling it to exhilarating speeds.

Its lightweight carbon-fiber bodywork reminds you that it is 1,000 percent racecar, while advanced features like massive splitters and ground effects give it even more downforce. Designed to deliver unmatched performance, the Valkyrie AMR Pro generates double the downforce of its base model counterpart, achieving lateral acceleration peaks exceeding 3G.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Aston Martin)

Beyond its performance, owners of the Valkyrie AMR Pro are treated to a personalized track experience at prestigious FIA circuits worldwide. With exclusive access to Aston Martin's team of experts and state-of-the-art facilities, each track day promises an unforgettable journey into the realm of high-performance driving. With its refined calibration and track-focused enhancements, this hypercar defies expectations, generating more downforce than its own weight and redefining the limits of track performance for a publicly available vehicle.

Pros

• Fastest V-12-equipped vehicle
• Modern F1 technology
• Team of Aston Martin engineers to run the car

Cons

• Another "track use only" car
• Eye-watering $4 million price tag
• Limited to 25 units

2024-04-28T09:12:33Z dg43tfdfdgfd