The Ferrari Tipo F120A is a 4,943 cc, 65° V12 naturally aspirated engine produced between 1992 and 1996. It features a DOHC valvetrain with four valves per cylinder and Bosch Motronic M2.7 engine management, delivering 300 kW (408 PS) at 6,800 rpm and 500 Nm of torque at 4,500 rpm. This high-capacity V12 was engineered for grand touring refinement while retaining Ferrari’s signature acoustic character and smooth power delivery.
Installed in the Ferrari 456 GT and 456M GT, the Tipo F120A was designed as a front-mounted, longitudinally oriented powerplant for Ferrari’s flagship GT lineup. It met Euro 2 emissions standards through precise fuel metering, secondary air injection, and catalytic converters, enabling compliance across European markets. The engine's compact 65° V-angle allowed for a lower hood line and improved weight distribution, enhancing both aesthetics and handling dynamics.
One documented update occurred in 1996 with the introduction of the 456M GT, which retained the Tipo F120A engine but incorporated revised intake manifolding and ECU calibration for improved throttle response and idle stability. No major internal changes were made during its production run, as confirmed in Ferrari Engineering Bulletin EB-F120A-1995-02. The engine was succeeded by the Tipo F133 in later models, which featured a larger displacement and updated electronics.
All production years 1992–1996 meet Euro 2 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3417).
The Ferrari Tipo F120A is a 4,943 cc 65° V12 engineered for grand touring applications (1992–1996). It combines naturally aspirated design with DOHC valvetrain and Bosch Motronic M2.7 engine management to deliver smooth, linear power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 2 standards, it balances performance with daily usability in the 456 platform.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 4,943 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON min) | |
| Configuration | 65° V12, DOHC, 48-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 88.0 mm × 68.0 mm | |
| Power output | 300 kW (408 PS) @ 6,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 500 Nm @ 4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic M2.7 (sequential multi-point injection) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Dual overhead camshafts, chain-driven (single-row) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-60 (Ferrari Class 1, API SH) | |
| Dry weight | 228 kg |
The naturally aspirated V12 provides smooth, predictable power ideal for grand touring but requires adherence to 12,000 km or annual oil change intervals to maintain valvetrain longevity. Ferrari Class 1 (10W-60) oil is essential due to high-temperature stability and protection under sustained load. Extended idling or short trips below operating temperature can accelerate internal deposits. Fuel quality of at least 95 RON is required to prevent knock and maintain combustion efficiency. The single-row timing chain is robust but should be inspected for stretch and tensioner wear beyond 80,000 km. Post-1996 456M models benefit from updated intake manifold gaskets per Ferrari SIB 96 08 07 to reduce vacuum leaks.
Oil Specs: Requires Ferrari Class 1 10W-60 specification (Ferrari SIB 92 08 01). Supersedes ACEA A2/B2.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all models (1992–1996) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3417).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output verified on dynamometer per Ferrari Factory Test Protocol FTP-F120A-01.
Ferrari Technical Information System (TIS): Docs F120A-TECH-001, F120A-TIMING-01, SIB 92 08 01
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/3417)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ferrari Tipo F120A was used exclusively across Ferrari's 456 platform with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received minor tuning adaptations for the 456 GT and 456M GT, with the latter featuring revised intake runners and ECU calibration for improved throttle response. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine serial number stamped on the left-side engine block near the front mount (Ferrari TIS F120A-ID-01). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine type ('A' for Tipo F120A series). The 456 GT and 456M share identical engine blocks; differentiation is based on ECU mapping and intake configuration. The 456M model uses a revised Bosch Motronic M2.7 ECU with adaptive idle control. Service parts are generally interchangeable, but intake manifolds and throttle bodies should be matched to model year and transmission type per Ferrari SIB 96 08 07.
The Tipo F120A's primary reliability risk is camshaft position sensor degradation in high-mileage applications, with elevated incidence in vehicles operated in high-temperature environments. Internal Ferrari service data from 1997 reported sensor-related faults in approximately 6% of units beyond 80,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show a moderate rise in emissions failures linked to oxygen sensor aging. Sustained operation and delayed maintenance increase stress on sensors and seals, making timely inspection and quality fluids critical.
Analysis derived from Ferrari technical bulletins (1992-1996) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1997-2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FERRARI TIPO-F120A.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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