In 2023, the automotive world saw the introduction of several new supercars equipped with V12 engines, a powertrain configuration that has long been revered for its smooth power delivery and emotive sound. While the industry continues to pivot towards electrification, these new V12 supercars serve as a reminder of the enduring appeal of traditional high-performance internal combustion engines. This article will explore the key models introduced this year, their technical innovations, the context of their development, and their place in the broader automotive landscape.
List Of Supercars in 2023 with V12 engine
| Supercar Model | Starting Price |
|---|---|
| 2023 Aston Martin Vantage | $173,086 |
| 2023 Aston Martin DB11 | $232,500 |
| 2023 Ferrari 812 | $440,000 |
| 2023 Ferrari Purosangue | $393,000 |
| 2023 Mercedes-Maybach S680 | $229,000 |
| 2023 Rolls-Royce Cullinan | $376,750 |
| 2023 Rolls-Royce Ghost | $351,000 |
| 2023 Rolls-Royce Phantom | $475,000 |
| 2023 Lamborghini Revuelto | $608,000 |
2023 Aston Martin DBS
The 2023 Aston Martin DBS, echoing American muscle car traits with its large engine and rear-wheel drive, offers a uniquely British blend of elegance and performance. Its luxurious appearance and sophisticated interior justify its hefty price. The 715-hp V-12 engine of the DBS delivers refined power, though it’s more grand tourer than a sports car. In its segment, while not as nimble as the McLaren GT or the former Ferrari 812 Superfast, the Aston excels in comfortable long-distance travel.
This year marks the finale for the current DBS series, culminating in the 770 Ultimate—a limited-run edition with only 499 units planned. This model boasts a 759-hp engine, likely a tuned version of the standard’s 5.2-liter V-12. Of these, 300 will be coupes and 199 convertibles. The Volante convertible, offering a bespoke customization experience, is particularly appealing.
The DBS, in both coupe and convertible forms, achieves 0-60 mph in around 3.2 seconds, topping out at 211 mph. The base model’s 715-hp and the Ultimate’s 759-hp V-12 pair with an eight-speed automatic for explosive acceleration. The DBS handles well on curves, though it lacks the refined ride of luxury-focused competitors like the Mercedes-Benz S-class.
| Specification | Aston Martin DBS (Standard) | Aston Martin DBS 770 Ultimate |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 5.2-liter V-12 | 5.2-liter V-12 (tuned) |
| Horsepower | 715 hp | 759 hp |
| Drive Type | Rear-wheel drive | Rear-wheel drive |
| 0-60 mph | ~3.2 seconds | ~3.2 seconds |
| Top Speed | 211 mph | 211 mph (estimated) |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
2023 Aston Martin Vantage
The 2023 Aston Martin Vantage, available as a coupe or convertible, epitomizes style and performance with its sharp design and potent powertrains. The majority feature a twin-turbo V-8 with over 500 horsepower, but a select few boast a 690-horsepower twin-turbo V-12. With an athletic chassis and lively handling, the Vantage delivers dynamic driving and beautiful exhaust notes. Despite its high price, the interior feels less luxurious than expected. A rare V-12 variant, limited to 333 units, promises a 3.4-second 0-60 mph sprint, paired with special aerodynamics for enhanced downforce.
Choosing between the coupe and convertible depends on personal preference for rigidity versus open-air exhilaration. Inside, options abound for customization, including desirable heated and ventilated seats, though the carbon-ceramic brakes are better suited for the track than daily driving. The base V-8 Vantage offers a thrilling ride, complemented by an electronically controlled differential and adaptive dampers, ensuring both track excitement and everyday comfort. The Vantage, especially in Roadster form, strikes a fine balance between sporty and relaxed driving experiences.
| Specification | Aston Martin Vantage V-12 (Limited Edition) |
|---|---|
| Engine | Twin-turbo V-12 |
| Horsepower | 690 hp |
| Likely Body Styles | Coupe (Based on typical V-12 offerings) |
| 0-60 mph | 3.4 seconds |
| Key Features | Special aerodynamics for enhanced downforce |
| Estimated Production Limit | 333 units |
2023 Aston Martin DB11
Driving an Aston Martin, like the DB11, offers a unique thrill distinct from high-horsepower SUVs and trucks. The standard DB11 features a 528-hp twin-turbo V-8, but the 630-hp V-12 coupe provides a more grandeur experience. Both engines deliver a captivating soundtrack, paired with an efficient eight-speed automatic and rapid quarter-mile times without compromising comfort. The DB11’s interior showcases luxury, despite its slightly outdated infotainment system.
For 2023, a new 21-inch wheel option from the Vantage F1 Edition is available, enhancing performance with lighter wheels. The convertible Volante model, although limited to the V-8, is a highlight, offering an immersive driving experience. Options like the Bang & Olufsen audio system, heated steering wheel, and blind-spot monitoring add to its appeal. Both the V-8 and V-12 engines in the DB11 are impressive, with the latter showing off formidable power and an enthralling exhaust note in tests. The Volante, even without the V-12, doesn’t lag in performance, making it a delightful choice for open-air enthusiasts.
| Specification | Aston Martin DB11 V-12 |
|---|---|
| Engine | Twin-turbo V-12 |
| Horsepower | 630 hp |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Key Performance Attributes | Formidable power, Enthralling exhaust note, Rapid quarter-mile times |
| Body Style | Coupe only |
| Interior | High-quality with a slightly outdated infotainment system |
2023 Ferrari 812
The Ferrari 812 GTS, a front-engine, rear-drive supercar, masterfully combines 789 horsepower with luxurious Italian leather interiors. In 2018, its coupe predecessor, the Superfast, sprinted from 0 to 60 mph in 2.7 seconds, with the 2023 812 GTS convertible maintaining this exhilarating performance. Housing a 6.5-liter V-12 engine, it’s likely the last of Ferrari’s naturally aspirated V-12s without hybrid assist. For 2023, only the GTS convertible is available, featuring carbon-ceramic brakes, 20-inch wheels, and customization options for paint, interior trim, and wheels.
The GTS’s performance is thrilling, with its V-12 delivering 530 pound-feet of torque to the rear wheels through a seven-speed dual-clutch. It reaches a top speed of 211 mph and approaches 60 mph, just a tenth slower than the Superfast, partly due to its heavier convertible build. The GTS handles nimbly, feels smaller than its size, and allows drivers to enjoy its intense exhaust note with the roof down. The carbon-ceramic brakes ensure quick, effective stops.
| Specification | Ferrari 812 GTS |
|---|---|
| Engine | 6.5-liter naturally aspirated V-12 |
| Horsepower | 789 hp |
| Torque | 530 lb-ft |
| Drive Type | Front-engine, rear-wheel drive |
| 0-60 mph | ~2.8 seconds (approximately) |
| Top Speed | 211 mph |
| Transmission | 7-speed dual-clutch |
| Body Style | Convertible only for 2023 |
2023 Ferrari Purosangue
Ferrari has joined the high-performance SUV market with its 2023 Purosangue, despite initial skepticism. The model aims to compete with elite models like the Lamborghini Urus, Porsche Cayenne Turbo, and luxury SUVs like Bentley Bentayga. It’s equipped exclusively with a thundering V-12 engine, aligning with Ferrari’s heritage. This SUV isn’t just about power; it also boasts an advanced active suspension system for authentic Ferrari handling. Priced over $400,000, it targets a wealthy clientele.
As Ferrari’s first SUV, the Purosangue offers both luxury and performance. Options like massaging front seats and an electrochromic glass roof cater to personalization. The vehicle’s core, a 6.5-liter V-12 engine, produces 715 horsepower and 528 pound-feet of torque, achieving 0 to 60 mph in about 3.2 seconds, with a top speed of 193 mph. Its adaptive suspension, without traditional anti-roll bars, controls body roll and adjusts ride height during aggressive driving. Our test drive confirmed that the Purosangue upholds the brand’s performance legacy, convincingly resembling its sports car siblings.
| Specification | Ferrari Purosangue |
|---|---|
| Engine | 6.5-liter V-12 |
| Horsepower | 715 hp |
| Torque | 528 lb-ft |
| 0-60 mph | ~3.2 seconds |
| Top Speed | 193 mph |
2023 Mercedes-Maybach S680
The 2023 Mercedes-Maybach S-class, tailored for billionaires seeking luxury, excels in opulence and refinement. Upgrading from the standard Benz-branded S-class, the Maybach variant boasts superior interior materials, rivaling the Bentley Flying Spur and Rolls-Royce Ghost. Focused on passenger comfort, particularly in the rear, it offers massage reclining seats, a beverage cooler, and automatic doors. Its air suspension ensures a smooth ride, perfect for business or leisure.
The Maybach S-class also introduces the Night Series package, featuring dark chrome with rose-gold headlamp accents, exclusive dark wheels with a Maybach logo pattern, and a cabin rich in unique finishes and high-quality leather options. The top-tier S680 model sports a potent 621-hp V-12 engine, distinguishing it from the S580’s 496-hp V-8. The Maybach’s opulent features include soft-close doors, a premium Burmester sound system, and an advanced rear-seat entertainment setup. Mercedes’ 4Matic all-wheel drive is standard across models. Remarkably quiet and smooth, the S-class delivers luxury in motion, focusing on a serene, high-class driving experience.
| Specification | Mercedes-Maybach S680 |
|---|---|
| Engine | 621-hp V-12 |
| Key Rivals | Bentley Flying Spur, Rolls-Royce Ghost |
| Primary Focus | Ultimate luxury and comfort with superior performance |
| Unique Interior Features | Opulent materials, Massage reclining rear seats, Beverage cooler, Automatic doors, High-quality leather options |
| Exterior Package Option | Night Series: Dark chrome, Rose-gold headlamp accents, Exclusive dark wheels with Maybach logo |
| Drive System | Standard 4Matic all-wheel drive |
2023 Rolls-Royce Cullinan
The Rolls-Royce Cullinan, at the zenith of luxury SUVs, boasts a twin-turbo V-12 engine with up to 592 horsepower, crafted for the ultra-rich. Its plush interior, with leather-like seating and lambs-wool mats, radiates opulence, crowned by the Spirit of Ecstasy hood ornament. While its exterior resembles a London taxi, its interior exudes customizable luxury.
Unmatched in its class and flaunting unique coach doors, the Cullinan eclipses peers like the Bentley Bentayga or Mercedes-AMG G63. Dream configurations might include Crystal paint, 22-inch wheels, a gold-plated hood ornament, enhanced rear seating with massage features, a champagne and whiskey console, plus a Shooting Star Headliner mimicking a starry sky, amplified by rear privacy features.
Performance is key with its 6.7-liter V-12 engine, delivering 563 to 592 horsepower, swift yet silent, achieving 0-60 mph in 4.5 seconds. Its all-wheel drive and adaptive air suspension ensure a ride so smooth and serene it sets a new benchmark in luxury transport.
| Specification | Rolls-Royce Cullinan |
|---|---|
| Engine | Twin-turbo V-12 |
| Horsepower | 563 to 592 hp |
| 0-60 mph | 4.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | All-wheel drive |
| Suspension | Adaptive air suspension for a smooth, serene ride |
2023 Rolls-Royce Ghost
The Rolls-Royce Ghost, a symbol of ultra-wealth, mirrors the grandeur of the pricier Phantom, providing a whisper-quiet, luxuriously appointed interior. Featuring coach rear doors and an exceptionally smooth ride, it is a paragon of high-end luxury. The Ghost, particularly its Black Badge model, uniquely combines luxury with increased power and athletic chassis tuning. Opting to be chauffeured? Its rear compartment offers a sumptuous experience.
Entering 2023 unchanged in style, equipment, powertrain, or price, the Ghost is Rolls-Royce’s “entry-level” sedan, yet it dazzles with an extensive list of standard and customizable options, depending on your budget.
A 563-hp 6.7-liter V-12, shared with the Cullinan SUV, powers the Ghost, with Black Badge versions receiving a 592-hp boost. The sedan boasts all-wheel drive, eight-speed automatic transmission, and a 4.6-second sprint to 60 mph. Notably, its all-wheel-steering and balanced weight distribution ensure satisfying handling. The adaptive suspension, aided by a road-scanning camera, ensures a seamless ride by adjusting for road irregularities.
| Specification | Rolls-Royce Ghost |
|---|---|
| Category | Ultra-luxury Sedan |
| Status | Rolls-Royce’s “entry-level” sedan, unchanged for 2023 |
| Engine | Standard: 563-hp 6.7-liter V-12; Black Badge: 592-hp V-12 |
| Acceleration (0-60 mph) | 4.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | All-wheel drive |
| Transmission | Eight-speed automatic |
| Key Features | Coach rear doors, Exceptionally smooth ride, Whisper-quiet interior |
2023 Rolls-Royce Phantom
rolls royce phantomThe 2023 Rolls-Royce Phantom epitomizes luxury and status, with its prominent grille and regal proportions unmistakably signaling opulence, even outclassing rivals like the Bentley Flying Spur and Mercedes-Maybach S-class in price. Experiencing its plush interior, whether as a driver or a passenger through its rear-hinged coach doors, is to feel a part of the elite. Renowned for its unparalleled comfort, the Phantom glides effortlessly over roads, with a silent V-12 engine providing ample power.
This year’s Phantom introduces a styling update with a modernized Pantheon grille, new headlamps, and wheel designs. The limited-edition Phantom Platino stands out with its silver-white paint and a luxe interior adorned with silk, special leather, and bamboo fibers.
Selecting a Phantom involves bespoke customization to meet the detailed preferences of its wealthy clientele. The Extended Wheelbase model is recommended for its generous rear-seat space. The 563-hp twin-turbo V-12 ensures swift, smooth propulsion, augmented by a pothole-detecting suspension system, creating a ride that feels like floating on a cloud, away from the world’s clamor.
| Specification | Rolls-Royce Phantom |
|---|---|
| Vehicle Type | Ultra-luxury Sedan |
| Engine | 6.8-liter V12 |
| Horsepower | 563 hp @ 5,000 rpm (420 kW) |
| Torque | 664 lb·ft @ 1,700 rpm (900 N·m) |
2023 Lamborghini Revuelto
The all-new Lamborghini Revuelto is a stylistic blend of classic Lamborghinis, merging elements from the Murcielago, Diablo, and Countach, including scissor doors and a wedge shape. But it sets itself apart as Lamborghini’s first plug-in hybrid, combining a mid-mounted V-12 with three electric motors, producing a staggering total of 1001 horsepower. This makes the Revuelto the most powerful Lamborghini and plug-in hybrid on the market, surpassing even the 986-hp Ferrari SF90 Stradale.
The Revuelto’s 814-hp 6.5-liter V-12 engine, accompanied by two motors driving the front and a third integrated into the rear’s eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, promises exhilarating performance. Estimated to hit 60 mph in just 2.3 seconds with a top speed of 218 mph, its acceleration is rapid, enhanced by electric motors for immediate power. Handling benefits from rear-wheel steering and a torque-vectoring system, providing agility and cornering stability. We eagerly await the opportunity to fully test and review the Revuelto’s capabilities.
| Specification | Lamborghini Revuelto |
|---|---|
| Vehicle Type | Supercar, Plug-in Hybrid |
| Styling | Blend of classic Lamborghini designs with scissor doors and wedge shape |
| Powertrain | Mid-mounted 6.5-liter V-12 engine with three electric motors |
| Total Horsepower | 1001 horsepower (814 hp from V-12 + electric motors) |
| Acceleration (0-60 mph) | Estimated 2.3 seconds |
| Top Speed | 218 mph |
| Transmission | Eight-speed dual-clutch automatic |
