Ferrari has revealed a new limited-edition version of its 12Cilindri supercar that appears to bring back the traditional manual gearbox – although the reality is more high-tech than mechanical.

Called the Ferrari 12Cilindri Manuale, the special model will be offered through the company’s Tailor Made personalisation program and production will be capped at 1499 examples worldwide.

Rather than fitting a conventional manual transmission, Ferrari has developed a new by-wire system that recreates the experience of driving a six-speed manual while retaining the standard car’s rear-mounted eight-speed dual-clutch automatic.

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The cabin features an open-gated gearlever mounted between the seats alongside a clutch pedal, but neither is mechanically linked to the transmission. Instead, electronic controls replicate the feel and operation of a traditional manual gearbox.

The car starts in automatic mode using the familiar drive, neutral and reverse buttons on the centre console. Pressing the clutch pedal activates the Manuale system, with an illuminated aluminium gear knob indicating the change.

The simulated manual operates across the first six forward ratios, while seventh and eighth gears remain available only in automatic mode. Ferrari says drivers can still stall the engine or mistime shifts, while the clutch pedal includes a simulated bite point for added authenticity.

Paddle shifters have been deleted, and there is no automatic throttle blip during downshifts. However, electronic safeguards prevent selecting a gear that could over-rev the engine, and drivers can instantly return to automatic operation by pressing the Drive button.

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Mechanically, the car is unchanged. Its naturally aspirated 6.5-litre V12 continues to produce 610kW and rev to 9500rpm, delivering a claimed 0-100km/h time of around three seconds and a top speed of approximately 338km/h.

Exclusive touches include laser-etched Manuale badging, silver Ferrari emblems, bespoke forged five-spoke wheels and subtle pinstriping inspired by the classic Ferrari 365 GTB/4 Daytona.

Ferrari has priced the Manuale package at around €190,000 (about A$340,000) on top of the donor vehicle, making it one of the most expensive interpretations yet of the classic manual driving experience.