One of the most iconic and beloved manual transmissions could be making a comeback in the future.

According to carsales.com.au, the chief of product development at Ferrari, Gianmaria Fulgenzi, is considering bringing the gated manual gearbox back – but only for special models.

“In terms of mechanical gearchanges, it’s something that could be in the future, depending on product,” Fulgenzi told media at a recent roundtable.

Ferrari retired manual transmissions more than a decade ago, opting instead for automated gearboxes – with gearchanges made using paddles behind the steering wheel.

While paddle-shifting transmissions are objectively faster on the race track – eliminating the need for a driver-operated clutch – enthusiasts have long called for the return of the manual, citing the lack of engagement while driving.

It’s understood Ferrari dropped the option for a manual transmission due to the lack of interest, though manual-optioned vehicles have become significantly more valuable in recent years.

Aston Martin remains one of the few supercar makers still offering an H-pattern gearbox on selected models.

However, Fulgenzi clarified manual transmissions would be reserved for special models, rather than being reintroduced across its range.

“Probably an Icona car, because it’s a car that represents our heritage, a car to be admired and to be driven in a certain way,” he said, but added performance would likely be limited due to clutch limitations.

As reported by CarSauce, newly-signed Ferrari F1 driver Sir Lewis Hamilton admitted he wanted to design an F40 homage – named the F44, after his racing number – complete with a manual gearbox.

Since the admission, Fulgenzi says “customers are already asking for it,” but declined to confirmed whether the project had been greenlit by company management.