Adequate Selection of V12 Engines in Modern Automakers
The V12 engine, once a hallmark of luxury and power, still finds a niche in the automotive industry despite the trend toward downsizing and hybridization. Various modern automakers have either maintained or reintroduced the V12 engine in their premium models to cater to the discerning tastes of car enthusiasts.
While Some Legacy Automakers Retain the V12 Tradition
In Germany, Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz are stalwarts in their use of V12 engines. For instance, BMW's M760Li sports car is powered by a twin-turbo V12 engine that delivers around 600 horsepower, though with only about 17,3000 units sold globally, it caters to a dedicated and wealthy clientele. Additionally, these manufacturers are known for their high-end derivatives like Rolls-Royce and Aston Martin, both offering the V12 engine in their respective flagship models.
Luxury Brands Carry the Torch for V12s
Cars like the Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Pagani continue to offer V12 engines, showcasing the pinnacle of automotive performance. Lamborghini, in particular, has a longstanding relationship with V12 engines, with the engine also powering the Pagani Zonda. Aston Martin recently updated its DB11 with a V12 engine, underscoring its commitment to high-performance drivelines.
Historic and Future Possibilities
Despite the elevated production and maintenance costs, several automakers are keeping the V12 alive for that extra dash of luxury and power. Mercedes-Benz and Rolls-Royce are examples of companies that have not fully abandoned the V12, while Ferrari and Lamborghini consistently use it in their high-end models. Similarly, Aston Martin continues to use V12 engines, albeit in limited production runs, and given the company's recent ownership by Bentley’s parent company (Volkswagen Group), it is possible that V12 engines might see wider use in the future.
Where Else Might You Find V12s?
Beyond the automotive industry, V12 engines continue to be found in high-performance applications such as trucks, marine vessels, and even some agricultural equipment. For instance, some Caterpillar trucks utilize V12 engines, along with Toyota’s Century limousine, which was powered by a V12 until 2017. While the Toyota and Jaguar V12 engines have both been retired, the demand for diesel power in heavy-duty applications remains strong, highlighting the continued relevance of the V12 design.
Overall, while the V12 engine is not as ubiquitous as it once was, it continues to be a symbol of luxury, performance, and engineering excellence in the hands of some of the world's finest automakers.