There is nothing quite like a V12! Many brands such as Lamborghini and Ferrari are extremely well known brands that offer cars like the LaFerrari and the Aventador with this massive, screaming engine.
However there are also plenty of other vehicles from lesser known brands, and lesser known cars that also offer one of the largest engines on the planet (for cars). So let’s talk through each of these brands, which cars from those brands have this engine, and of course, which ones are our personal favorites!
1. Aston Martin
Our Choice: Aston Martin Rapide S
I am huge into funky, quirky cars, and there isn’t anything funkier than the Aston Martin Rapide S in this company’s lineup. They continued with the V12 lineup but gave you extra luxury, 4 doors, and a center console that goes all the way through the back seat.
There’s nothing quite like the sound of a V12 engine revving up. And when that V12 engine is powering an Aston Martin Rapide S, you know you’re in for a good time. The Rapide S is our favorite Aston Martin for several reasons.
First of all, that V12 engine provides an incredible amount of power and torque. Second, the Rapide S is well designed inside and out. And last but not least, it’s just a whole lot of fun to drive while still getting to take family or friends with you.
If you’re looking for an Aston Martin that’s sure to put a smile on your face, the Rapide S is the one you want. Not to mention, they are relatively inexpensive to buy now.
What Aston Martins have a V12 engine?
Years | Vehicle | Engine |
---|---|---|
1999 – 2003 | DB7 (V12 Vantage, Volante, Vantage GT, Vantage GTA) | 5.9L |
2004 – 2016 | DB9 (Volante, GT, LM, Carbon Black, Morning Frost, and Quantum Silver) | 5.9L |
2016 – Now | DB11 V12 | 5.2L |
2008 – 2012 | DBS (Volante, Carbon Black, Carbon Edition) | 5.9L |
2018 – Now | DBS Superleggera | 5.2L |
2009 – 2012 | One-77 | 7.3L |
2010 – 2020 | Rapide S | 5.9L |
2001 – 2007 / 2012 – 2018 | V12 Vanquish | 5.9L |
2009 – 2018 | V12 Vantage (S) | 5.9L |
2016 – 2019 | Valkyrie | 6.5L |
2020 | Victor | 7.3L |
2011 – 2012 | Virage | 5.9L |
2. Audi
Our Choice: Audi Q7
Did you know that at one point, Audi sold a V12 version of the Audi Q7? Yes, the family hauler, and largest Audi you can buy had a V12 diesel for a little while. Yes, a diesel V12.
This SUV packs a twin-turbocharged V12 engine that produces an impressive amount of torque.
And yet, despite its considerable size and weight, the Q7 V12 is surprisingly agile and maneuverable. It’s also outfitted with a host of luxury features, making it the perfect choice for those who want the best of both worlds. In short, the Audi Q7 V12 is our favorite Audi with a V12 engine.
What Audis have a V12 engine?
Years | Vehicle | Engine |
---|---|---|
2008 – 2012 | Q7 | 5.9L Diesel |
3. BMW
Our Choice: BMW M760i
The BMW V12 engines are the stuff of legend (also used in Rolls-Royce, but we’ll talk about those later).
The BMW M760i is a powerful sedan and is our personal favorite under the BMW nameplate, and is equipped with a twin-turbo V12 engine that produces an impressive 601 horsepower. It’s also packed with luxury features like massaging front seats and a Bowers & Wilkins sound system. But the best part of the M760i is its sheer driving experience (even though it never came in a manual transmission).
The V12 engine provides the effortless acceleration, and the car feels incredibly stable and composed when cornering at high speeds. If you’re looking for the ultimate driving experience, look no further than the BMW M760i.
What BMW has a V12 engine?
Years | Vehicle | Engine |
---|---|---|
1986 – 2015 | 7 Series | 6.6L |
1993 – 1999 | 8 Series | 4.0L, 4.4L, 5.0L, 5.4L & 5.6L |
4. Ferrari
Our Choice: LaFerrari
Ferrari has been a staple in the industry for using V12 engines that sound awesome, and are extremely powerful. They win race after race using their engines to power the winning cars.
Every once in a while they will release a halo car that pushes the boundaries, and our favorite is the LaFerrari! Having had a chance to witness this vehicle in person, we can say it is an incredible machine. Powered by a hybrid V12 engine, and insane flowy design details, this is one of the best Ferrari’s ever made.
Of course, this also isn’t an entry-level car, and plan on spending a couple of million to keep one in your garage.
What Ferrari has a V12 engine?
Years | Vehicle | Engine |
---|---|---|
1948 – 1953 | 166 | 2.0L |
1951 – 1952 | 212 Inter | 2.7L |
1952 – 1964 | 250 | 3.0L |
1966 – 1971 | 365 (California, GT, GTC, GTS) | 4.0L, 4.4L |
1992 – 2003 | 456 GT Venice | 5.5L |
1996 – 2001 | 550 Barchetta | 5.5L |
2002 – 2006 | 575M Maranello | 5.7L |
2007 – 2012 | 599 | 6.0L |
2004 – 2011 | 612 Scaglietti | 5.7L |
2017 – Now | 812 (Superfast, GTS) | 6.5L |
2002 – 2004 | Enzo | 6.0L |
2012 – 2017 | F12 | 6.3L |
2016 – 2020 | GTC4Lusso | 6.3L |
2013 – 2018 | LaFerrari | 6.3L |
1984 – 1996 | Testarossa | 4.9L |
5. Jaguar
Our Favorite: Jaguar XK-E
Of all the cars that feature a Jaguar V12 engine, our favorite has to be the Jaguar XK-E. The XK-E was introduced in 1966 as a replacement for the earlier Jaguar E-Type.
It featured a brand new V12 engine that was capable of producing an impressive 265 hp. The XK-E was also significantly lighter than its predecessor, making it even faster and more agile.
Unfortunately, Jaguar only produced the XK-E for four years before discontinuing it in 1974. But in those short years, they managed to create one of the most iconic and desirable cars ever made. Thanks to its gorgeous design, powerful engine, and sports car handling, the Jaguar XK-E remains our favorite V12-powered car of all time.
What Jaguar has a V12 engine?
Years | Vehicle | Engine |
---|---|---|
1972 – 1997 | Daimler Double-Six | 5.3L |
1974 – 1985 | Panther De Ville | 5.3L |
1972 – 1981 | Panther J72 | 5.3L |
1973 – 2003 | XJ12 | 5.3L |
1971 – 1974 | XK-E | 5.3L |
6. Lamborghini
Our Choice: Lamborghini Murciélago
Much like Ferrari, Lamborghini has been well known for its use of V12 engines in its top-of-the-line cars (and hefty price tags).
Their engines are known for being incredibly powerful and fast, making it the perfect choice for those who want to experience the thrill of driving a Lamborghini to its max.
Our favorite by far is the Murciélago also has an impressive design including its bat wings that is sure to turn heads wherever you go.
While the Murciélago is much more analog and less refined than newer V12s (specifically the Aventador), this car is incredible. Match the Lambo V12 with a gated manual transmission, and you have one of the best driving vehicles on the planet (if not crazy expensive).
What Lamborghini has a V12 engine?
Years | Vehicle | Engine |
---|---|---|
1964 – 1966 | 350GT | 3.5L |
2011 – 2022 | Aventador (S, SV, SVJ) | 6.5L |
2016 – 2017 | Centenario | 6.5L |
1974 – 1990 | Countach | 3.9L, 4.8L & 5.2L |
1990 – 2001 | Diablo | 5.7L & 6.0L |
1968 – 1978 | Espada | 3.9L |
2020 | Essenza SCV12 | 6.5L |
1986 – 1993 | LM002 | 5.2L & 7.2L |
1966 – 1973 | Miura | 3.9L |
2001 – 2010 | Murciélago | 6.2L |
2020 – Now | Sián | 6.5L |
2013 – 2014 | Veneno | 6.5L |
7. Maserati
Our Choice: Maserati MC12
The MC12 is a V12-powered supercar that was produced by Maserati between 2004 and 2005. It is based on the Ferrari Enzo, and its V12 engine produces a whopping 730 horsepower. The MC12 is a true performance machine, and it’s our favorite Maserati with a V12 engine (I mean, there are only 2 Masaratis with a V12).
It’s not only powerful, but it’s also very rare – only 50 were ever made. If you’re lucky enough to find one for sale, be prepared to pay a hefty price tag – the MC12 has been known to sell for over $1 million. But in our opinion, it’s worth every penny.
What Maserati has a V12 engine?
Years | Vehicle | Engine |
---|---|---|
2004 – 2005 | MC12 | 6.0L |
8. McLaren
Our Choice: McLaren F1
The McLaren F1 is our favorite V12-powered McLaren supercar (still would be if it also wasn’t the only one). It’s not only fast and stylish, but it also has a V12 engine that gives it an incredible amount of power and is a big part of why this car is also one of the most iconic cars on the planet.
The V12 engine was one of the most powerful engines in the world when it came out, and it’s able to propel the F1 to incredible speeds. The McLaren F1 is one of the fastest cars in the world, and it can go from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.2 seconds, and held the title of fastest production car for quite some time.
What McLaren has a V12 engine?
Years | Vehicle | Engine |
---|---|---|
1992 – 1998 | F1 | 6.1L |
9. Mercedes
Our Choice: Mercedes S65
It should come as no surprise that our favorite Mercedes with a V12 is the SL65. The SL65 has everything we could want in a luxury car, including a comfortable interior, a smooth ride, and plenty of horsepowers.
Plus, its V12 engine sounds amazing when you step on the gas. If you’re looking for the ultimate driving experience, then look no further than the Mercedes-Benz SL65.
What Mercedes has a V12 engine?
Years | Vehicle | Engine |
---|---|---|
1992 – 1998 | 600 SE | 6.0L, 7.1L & 7.3L |
2001 – 2007 | SL65 | 5.5L & 6.0L |
1991 – 2020 | S Series | 6.0L, 5.5L, 6.3L & 6.2L |
10. Pagani
Our Choice: Pagani Huayra
We can’t help but be drawn to cars like the Pagani Huayra. With its twin-turbo V12 engine, the Huayra is capable of incredible performance, yet it still retains the refinement and elegance that we expect from a Pagani. It’s truly the best of both worlds, and that’s why it’s our favorite Pagani with a V12 engine.
The Huayra uses a Twin-Turbo specially built V12 engine from Mercedes, and it truly is incredible. Everyone is built specifically to each customer, meaning every car is special and unique!
What Pagani has a V12 engine?
Years | Vehicle | Engine |
---|---|---|
2011 – 2019 | Huayra | 5.9L |
1999 – 2019 | Zonda | 6.0L, 6.3L & 7.3L |
11. Rolls-Royce
Our Choice: Rolls-Royce Cullinan
The Cullinan is our favorite Rolls-Royce with a V12 engine. V12s are the epitome of luxury and power, and the Cullinan delivers both in spades. It’s got more than enough power to get you up to speed in a hurry, and the ride is smooth and comfortable.
The interior is impeccably appointed, and the exterior is beautifully designed. The Cullinan is the perfect blend of luxury and performance, and we can’t imagine anyone being disappointed with it.
What Rolls-Royce has a V12 engine?
Years | Vehicle | Engine |
---|---|---|
2018 – Now | Cullinan | 6.75L |
2016 – 2021 | Dawn | 6.6L |
2009 – Now | Ghost | 6.6L & 6.75L |
2017 – Now | Phantom | 6.75L |
2014 – 2021 | Wraith | 6.6L |
12. Toyota
Our Choice: Toyota Century
The Century is our favorite Toyota with a V12 engine. The Century is the epitome of luxury and class, and its V12 engine just takes things to the next level. Plus, with its spacious interior and comfortable ride, the Century is the perfect car for long drives.
Whether you’re cruising down the open highway or crawling through city traffic, the Century V12 is a joy to drive. So if you’re in the market for a V12-powered Toyota, be sure to check out the Century. You won’t be disappointed.
What Toyota has a V12 engine?
Years | Vehicle | |
---|---|---|
1997 – 2017 | Century | 5.0L |
13. Vector
Our Choice: Vector M12
The M12 is our favorite Vector with a V12 engine. It’s fast, it’s furious, and it sounds absolutely epic. We love the V12 for its power and performance, and we think it’s the perfect engine for the M12. The V12 also makes the M12 more unique and exclusive, which is another reason why we love it.
What Vector has a V12 engine?
Years | Vehicle | Engine |
---|---|---|
1996 – 1999 | M12 | 5.7L |
Is a V12 better than V8?
There are a lot of different opinions out there on which engine is better – V12 or V8. However, we think that the V12 is the superior choice for a few reasons. Outside of just being cooler, the V12 has a much better sound, it’s more powerful, and it’s smoother than a V8.
While V12 engines are typically found in high-end luxury cars, there are a few V12-powered cars that are more affordable. If you’re looking for a V12 engine without the high price tag, check out the Toyota Century.
The Century is a Japanese sedan that’s been in production since 1967, and it’s powered by a V12 engine. It’s not the most powerful V12 on this list, but it’s a great option if you’re looking for a more affordable V12 car
How much horsepower is V12?
It really depends, over the decades V12 engine power has varied wildly. In the 1950’s V12 Ferrari engines were putting out around 200 horsepower, however by 2002 that number had increased to 660 horsepower in the Enzo. In more recent years V12 engine power has decreased slightly, with V12 engines now averaging around 600 horsepower.
What is the best V12 engine?
The V12 engine is a powerful engine that is typically found in high-end luxury cars. It’s known for its great sound, power, and smoothness.
The best V12 engine is completely up to debate, however, our personal favorite is anything that is in a Lamborghini. Lamborghinis are known for their V12 engines, which are some of the most powerful and fast engines on the road. If you’re looking for a V12 engine that is sure to impress, go with a Lamborghini. You won’t be disappointed.
Where can you find v12 engine cars for sale?
If you’re in the market for a V12 engine car, you have several options. Bring a Trailer and Cars & Bids are both good places to start your search. Alternatively, you could try your luck on eBay. Just be sure to set your filter to “V12 only” to avoid wasting time scrolling through listings for V8 cars.
Of course, if you’re really looking for the best deal, you could always try contacting a private owner directly. But be warned: V12 engines are notoriously finicky, so you’ll want to make sure you’re familiar with basic automotive maintenance before taking on such a project. Trust us, it’s not worth risking your life savings just to save a few bucks on repairs!
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a powerful and luxurious car, then you should definitely consider getting one with a V12 engine. V12 engines are known for their great sound, power, and smoothness. Plus, with so many different V12-powered cars out there to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect one for you.