Here’s why the Ferrari F80 uses a V6 instead of a V12—and how it almost became a single-seater.

“Every supercar is remembered for a unique feature,” said Ferrari’s marketing chief, Enrico Galliera. “The GTO for its first turbo, the F40 for its rear wing, the F50 for its F1-inspired architecture, the Enzo for its butterfly doors, and LaFerrari for introducing our first hybrid system.”

So, what defines the Ferrari F80? “It’s hard to pinpoint just one feature because the new, dedicated platform is packed with innovations,” Galliera explained. Interestingly, the powertrain—the heart of any Ferrari—was actually one of the last considerations.

You might expect the F80 to have a roaring V12 like its predecessors, but it doesn’t. Instead, it’s powered by a 3.0-liter hybridized V6. How did Ferrari settle on a six-cylinder engine for its flagship model?

Ferrari focused on what would deliver the best performance, rather than sticking to tradition. “Should we go with the iconic Ferrari V12, or choose the most advanced architecture from top-level racing?” Galliera said. The decision was simple: the proven V6 turbo architecture from Ferrari’s Le Mans-winning 499P. The F80’s engine, while based on the 499P’s 120-degree setup, has been extensively re-engineered, delivering an impressive 296 horsepower per liter.

Though the V6 may raise some eyebrows, Ferrari’s engineering chief, Giammaria Fulgenzi, reassures enthusiasts that the signature Ferrari engine sound remains intact. “You may be skeptical since we announced a V6 instead of a V12, but trust me, the iconic Ferrari soundtrack is still unique in this new engine.”

Visually, the F80 reflects its V6 powerplant with six rear air vents—an intentional design choice, according to Ferrari’s design head, Flavio Manzoni. “This wasn’t about nostalgia or continuity,” Manzoni said. “We wanted to create something futuristic and disruptive.”

Initially, Ferrari considered making the F80 a single-seater to give it extreme proportions—narrowing the cabin and widening the track for an aggressive stance. “It was a provocation,” Manzoni admitted, but the final design retains the single-seater look while accommodating a passenger. With only 799 models produced, all of which are sold, those fortunate enough to own one will be able to share in the F80’s exhilarating performance.