V12

V12 refers to a piston internal combustion engine with twelve cylinders arranged in two banks of six forming a V. The banks share a single crankshaft, and the cylinders are usually mounted at a V-angle of about 60 degrees, though other angles such as 90 degrees have been used. The layout allows a high total displacement and substantial power output while maintaining a relatively compact engine length for an inline-12‑cylinder arrangement.

V12 engines are renowned for their smoothness and refined power delivery, due to the even firing sequence and balanced crankshaft. They can accommodate large displacements and long strokes, delivering strong low- to mid-range torque as well as high-rev performance. The trade-offs include increased weight, size, and mechanical complexity, along with higher manufacturing and maintenance costs, making them less practical for smaller or highly fuel-efficient vehicle designs.

Historically, V12s have been used in luxury and high-performance automobiles as well as in aviation. Automotive examples include classic and modern Ferraris such as the 250 GTO, 365 GTB/4 Daytona, and the contemporary 812 Superfast; Lamborghini’s early and notable V12 designs; Aston Martin’s V12 models; and Jaguar XJ12. In aviation, V12 engines powered many WWII-era aircraft, with prominent examples such as the Rolls-Royce Merlin and various Pratt & Whitney designs.

Today, V12 engines persist mainly in high-end cars and specialized applications. Manufacturers such as Ferrari, Rolls-Royce, and certain Aston Martin models continue to offer V12 powerplants, while many mainstream automakers have shifted toward smaller, turbocharged or hybrid configurations.