All posts in “Ferrari Lists”

10 of the Wildest One-Offs from Ferrari’s Special Projects Division

The concept of creating bespoke Ferrari cars dates back to the carmaker’s early years. Clients would liaise with Ferrari about a chassis and the engine and then reach out to an Italian styling house to come up with the bodywork.

It was to revive the spirit of these coach-built cars that the Ferrari Special Projects division was established in the late 2000s. This programme represented the pinnacle of Ferrari’s in-house personalization service, allowing only a few select customers the opportunity to realize their vision of a Ferrari supercar.

Silver Ferrari F12 TRS on roadVia Motor Authority.

The initial idea was to let clients, in partnerships with top Italian design houses, create one-off redesigns of Ferrari sports cars with the full support and blessing of Ferrari engineers. However, this soon morphed into the creation of entirely new vehicle designs, prompted in part by the opening of Ferrari’s in-house Design Centre in 2010.

Ferrari Special Project cars are the height of exclusivity for the Prancing Horse brand—they simply reek of class, and, of course, lots of money. Fortunately, there is no shortage of wealthy clients who will jump at the opportunity to own a one-off Ferrari. Here are 10 of the most extreme creations of the Ferrari Special Projects division.

Wild One-Off #10: Ferrari SP1

Red 2008 Ferrari F430 SP1 at 2010 Monterey Car WeekVia Teamspeed.

The SP1, not to be mistaken for the Monza SP1, kickstarted the Ferrari Special Projects program back in 2008. The SP1, short for Special Project number 1, was made for Japanese businessman and collector Junichiro Hiramatsu. He was also, at one time, the president of the Ferrari Club of Japan.

The SP1 was based on the Ferrari F430 and styled by Leonardo Fioravanti, a legendary former Pininfarina designer responsible for Ferrari cars like the Dino 246 GT, 365 GTB, and the 512 BB. According to the story, Junichiro admired Leonardo’s 1998 F100 Prototype vehicle and wanted a custom design along the same lines.

Most of the car’s underpinnings, chassis, and V8 engine were lifted straight from the F430, but the external cladding and styling directly expressed Leonardo Fioravanti’s ideas.

Wild One-Off #9: Ferrari F12 TRS

Red Ferrari F12 TRS on roadVia The Supercar Blog.

Based on the F12 Berlinetta, the F12 TRS was a hardcore sports Barchetta commissioned by Ferrari lover and billionaire Sam Li. Power was derived from the same 6.3-litre V12 that drove the F12 Berlinetta, meaning an output of 729-hp and a 3.1-second sprint to 60 mph.

However, it was in the design that the F12 TRS really stood out. First off, there was no roof, hence the ‘Barchetta’ tag. The wraparound windscreen paid homage to the legendary 1957 Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa. A redesigned bumper and larger air intakes up front gave the F12 TRS a more aggressive look than the Berlinetta, but the real design highlight was the glass cutout in the hood that allowed a sneaky peek at the red power plant underneath.

According to reports, the development costs reached north of $4 million; no big deal for Sam Li, who ordered not 1 but 2 of the F12 TRS supercars. The first one was finished in liquid silver and the other in the more traditional Ferrari Rosso Red colour.

Wilde One-Off #8: Ferrari P540 Superfast Aperta

Gold Ferrari P540 Superfast Aperta on roadVia Motor1.

Before the 812 Superfast, there was this one—the P540 Superfast Aperta. The difference is that the latter was made for a single customer back in 2009.

Edward Walson, son of the guy who invented Cable TV, was so impressed by a car he saw in the 1968 Fellini film Toby Dammit that he approached Ferrari and asked if they could build a similar one for him. The vehicle was designed by Pininfarina and built in Maranello.

A 599 GTB provided the base for the implementation of Walson’s radical ideas. The roof was lopped off, and a lot of bracing was added to strengthen the chassis. Extensive carbon fibre use kept the car’s weight to within 45 lbs above the base 599 GTB.

The P540 Superfast Aperta had the same power plant as the 599 GTB, a 6.0-litre V12 that churned out 611-hp—enough firepower for whatever excitement Walson craved behind the wheel.

Wild One-Off #7: Ferrari Superamerica 45

Blue Ferrari Superamerica 45 parked on streetVia Car Pixel.

The backstory for this one is just as interesting as the car itself. It was commissioned in 2011 by New York-based art collector and property developer Peter Kalikow. The supercar was designed by Ferrari Special Projects to commemorate the 45th anniversary of Kalikow’s first Ferrari purchase, a second-hand 400 Superamerica convertible.

The open-top car debuted at the 2011 Villa d’Este Concours and showcased what Ferrari described as ‘a latest-generation touch-screen infotainment system’ at the time. The Superamerica 45 is based on the 599. Still, it incorporates several unique touches, like the carbon-fibre hardtop that rotates and stows away in a redesigned boot, also made from carbon fibre.

The chrome grille is a custom design, as are the twin air vents in the front fenders. The car is finished in an exclusive ‘Blu Antille’ colour, a deliberate choice chosen because it matches another important car in Kalikow’s collection—a 1961 400 Superamerica cabriolet.

Wild One-Off #6: Ferrari SP12 EC

Ferrari SP12 EC at 2013 Goodwood Festival of SpeedVia Motor1.

‘EC’ is short for Eric Clapton, and yes, Ferrari did make a custom car for the world-famous musician. The multi-Grammy award winner is a loyal follower of the Prancing horse brand and already had several Ferraris in his possession when he approached Ferrari with his idea for a one-off.

Of course, Ferrari agreed, and the retro-styled SP12 EC was born. The car, inspired by the classic 512 Berlinetta Boxer, is based on the Ferrari 458 Italia. Pininfarina did go to great lengths to ensure that it looked like a completely different car, though, with subtle styling cues that hark back to the classic era.

It retained the same 4.5-litre V8 engine from the 458 Italia, but Eric Clapton can have few complaints about that. That engine can propel the 458 to 60 mph in as little as 3.1 seconds and on to a top speed of about 202 mph.

Wild One-Off #5: Ferrari 458 MM Speciale

Via Top Gear.

The 458 Speciale was a pretty unique machine, the last of the naturally aspirated V8 screamers from the Maranello-based carmaker. However, for one wealthy British collector, the stock car was not enough, and he wanted something in a league of its own; something nobody else could own.

That desire ultimately birthed the 458 MM Speciale. It uses the same high-revving 597-bhp V8 engine from the 458 Speciale but sports significant visual changes that immediately set it apart.

The design language includes redesigned front and rear bumpers and more aggressive lines around the car’s front and sides. In addition, there is a new air scoop and intakes to funnel even more air into the engine bay and over a fixed ducktail spoiler. The car is finished in a shade of white—known as Bianco Italia in Ferrari lingo—and complemented by the Italian flag livery.

Wild One-Off #4: Ferrari SP 275 RW Competizione

Yellow Ferrari SP 275 RW Competizione parked on roadVia Car Pixel.

In 2016, the SP 275 RW Competizione was unveiled to pay homage to the 275 GTB, Ferrari’s V12 sports car manufactured from 1964 to 1968. It was built for American dentist Rick Workman, who serves up living proof that you can make a lot of money fixing people’s teeth.

The car rides on a slightly modified F12 Berlinetta chassis but draws its potency from its hardcore sibling—the F12 TDF. That means a formidable 6.3-litre V12 under the hood that delivers 789-hp at 8,500 rpm to the rear wheels.

The SP 275 Competizione includes visual 275 GTB cues like louvres cut into the bodywork, aluminum fuel cap, and bespoke rear-end styling. The bright yellow paint is a nod to racing team Ecurie Francorchamps’ 275 GTB that won the GT class at Le Mans in 1965.

Wild One-Off #3: Ferrari SP38

Red Ferrari SP38 parked on streetVia Top Gear.

Ronnie Kessel owns a racing team and is a highly respected Ferrari dealer. He also happens to be the lucky owner of the SP38, a $4 million one-off Ferrari supercar that had its official debut at the 2018 Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este.

It rides on a 488 GTB platform, but every external body panel has been replaced with new ones that reference a mix of other cars in the Ferrari lineup like the F40, the 308 and even the 458 MM Speciale (another Special Projects Ferrari). The most distinguishing feature of the SP38 is the louvred engine cover, made from carbon fibre.

The air intakes on the 488 GTB are gone. Instead, the intercoolers receive air from special inlets beside the side windows. It shares the same powertrain with the 488 GTB, so packed within that frame is a twin-turbocharged V8 that churns out an impressive 661-hp and 561 lb-ft of torque.

Wild One-Off #2: Ferrari P80/C

Red Ferrari P80/C parked on streetVia Top Gear.

The P80/C carries the distinction of being the first track-only car from the Ferrari Special Projects division. It is also the first built on a competition chassis, that of the 488 GT3.

However, the fact that the P80/C cannot be used for any competition racing meant it was free from any FIA restrictions. That allowed Ferrari to go all out in designing a truly bespoke hardcore machine.

The P80/C reportedly took about four years to develop and involved several meetings between the design team and the car’s owner, Hong Kong businessman and Ferrari diehard TK Mak. A standout feature is the gigantic T-wing, inspired by Ferrari F1 cars and designed to help reduce turbulence as air flows over the car’s rear.

Then there’s the massive rear diffuser that juts out aggressively, keeping the car planted as it is put through its paces at the track. The P80/C gets the 488 GT3’s twin-turbo V8, but in this case, it’s derestricted, and power output is thought to be in excess of 700-hp.

Wild One-Off #1: Ferrari Omologata

Red Ferrari Omologata parked in lot near wallVia Carscoops.

This is one of the latest creations from Ferrari Special Projects. To create the Omologata, Ferrari took the already-bonkers 812 Superfast and stretched the design and engineering boundaries even further.

According to Ferrari, this is more than just a mere facelift. In fact, only the windscreen and headlights are shared with the 812 Superfast.

The Omologata was hand-crafted from aluminum and took two years to develop. The Rosso Magma shade was specially created for the supercar and is complemented by the racing number roundels on the hoods and doors. The rear windscreen is gone, replaced by slats similar to the F40 to highlight the car’s racing pedigree.

Ferrari has been very secretive about the powertrain, but it will not be out of place to assume it is the same 789-hp V12 unit found in the 812 Superfast. Hopefully, the Omologata will not waste away in some private collection and will get opportunities to really stretch its legs.

The Eleventh Horse: Ferrari BR20

Silver Ferrari BR20 parked on streetVia Top Gear.

I was just finishing up this piece when I came across the news of the latest Ferrari Special Projects baby. There was no way I was going to pass up the chance to slide it in here.

It’s called the BR20 and is based on the 2+2 GTC4 Lusso. However, the chassis has been reworked to accommodate a longer, sleeker ‘fastback’ profile, reminiscent of the classic Ferrari coupes like the Ferrari 410 Superamerica and the 500 Superfast.

There are no rear seats in the BR20, but in its place, Ferrari has crafted an elegant luggage deck, complete with genuine oak trimmings. It ties in nicely with other parts of the interior, which is done up in expensive leather and carbon fibre inserts, giving off a mix of classy and modern vibes.

Ferrari is being coy about the powertrain, but since the BR20 borrows from the V12 GTC4 Lusso (and not the V8 version), it’s logical to assume that the same 6.3-litre unit powers the one-off fastback. That’s at least 680 horses under the hood, more than enough to transform the BR20 into a speedy grand tourer in a flash.

Best of the Current Ferrari Model Lineup

Ferrari continues to be an ever-present figure when it comes to producing some of the world’s most revered and sought after exotic automobiles. Striking a fine balance between forward-looking innovation and staying true to its heritage, the Prancing Horse marque has some exciting and unequivocally Ferrari-esque projects in the pipeline.

While the lineup has been subject to a quantifiable consolidation for 2021 – with the retirement of the legendary 488 and the phasing out of its family-friendly GTC4 Lusso – Ferrari fans still have a lot to be excited about. The Ferrari Roma, unveiled in the later part of 2020, had its first full-season debut for the 2021 model year.

There is also a new Ferrari SUV in the works called the Purosangue, which is slated for release late in 2021 as a MY2022. While the SUV will be the GTC4 Lusso’s logical successor, there is little doubt that it is a direct retort to long-time-rival Lamborghini’s highly acclaimed Urus. Ferrari will look to claim their piece of this real estate and usurp their adversaries in the process, so we should expect something truly epic.

Returnees to the 2021 roster remain fundamentally unchanged, with such models as the Portofino, F8 Tributo, 812 Superfast, and SF90 Stradale each bringing their own unique purpose and interpretations of the Ferrari experience to the table.

Here are the best brand new Ferrari models you can purchase today.

Ferrari F8 Tributo

Ferrari F8 Tributo

Base MSRP: $280,000 USD

The Ferrari F8 Tributo continues an impressive line of “entry-level” mid-engined sports cars within the Ferrari model lineup. Of course, no Ferrari will ever be considered economical in the grand scheme of things, and the F8 Tributo certainly doesn’t buck this trend. A car that is greater than the sum of its parts, the F8 Tributo is a highly capable all-rounder, which manages to stand out amongst an elite club of daily supercars which continue to redefine the exotic car experience and move the measuring stick higher.

The Ferrari F8 Tributo in my opinion, is the pragmatist’s choice; the one that will provide you with all of the best characteristics of a Ferrari automobile, in a single package. You just can’t go wrong with this car – it’s just that incredible. Available in both a coupe and Spider configuration.

Ferrari Roma

Ferrari Roma

Base MSRP: $222,620 USD

Ferrari’s latest true grand touring sports car offers something really unique and refreshing. Its design is simple; minimalist you could say, as far as the artistry is concerned. Yet, objectively it is a very beautiful car. The inner workings of the Roma are anything but uncomplicated. It features one of the most high-tech cabins of any Ferrari, or car in its class. Its 3.9L engine is as athletic as it is utilitarian, making for a grand tourer that really molds to the character of its owner – or perhaps, it’s the other way around?

Granted it is a Ferrari, but those who want something flashy should look elsewhere within the line-up; or, depending on your cup of tea, outside the brand as a whole. But with the “gentleman’s sports car” now being in vogue, it’s this very characteristic that makes the Roma one of the most desirable cars of its kind. In a low-key sorta way.

Ferrari 812 Competizione

Ferrari 812 Competizione

Base MSRP: $598,000 USD, $600,000 USD (Aperta)

First, the name: it’s officially known as the Ferrari 812 Competizione. But, it can also be called the Ferrari 812 Competizione A(perta). That’s because Ferrari surprised us by unveiling not one, but two versions of this hardcore 812 Superfast variant right from the get go. The latter – meant to replace the 812 GTS – is a Targa counterpart which features a removable carbon fiber roof panel which can be neatly stowed away in a special made-to-measure storage compartment.

Besides the obvious aesthetic differences born from having an open-top configuration, the two cars are identical mechanically. Both the Competizione and Competizione A will be powered by the same 6.5L naturally-aspirated V12 engine. In addition to producing 819 hp and possessing a symphonic 9,500 rpm of vocal range, we now also know that it also churns out 512 lb-ft of torque. Those are the peak figures of course, which are attainable at both 9,250 rpm and 7,000 rpm respectively.

Ferrari 296 GTB

2022 Ferrari 296 GTB

Base MSRP: $280,000 USD (est.)

You’re a hybrid and EV fanatic. Ferrari is your favorite automaker. But the near-7-figure price tag of the SF90 Stradale is a bit of a buzz kill. Well, there’s now a cure for your ailment – the Ferrari 296 GTB. The Ferrari 296 GTB is not a replacement for any models formerly or currently in its product range, with Ferrari stating that it is “creating its own segment”. Price-wise, the 296 GTB is billed as the company’s new ‘entry-level’ mid-engined supercar and is being touted as the automaker’s latest ‘gateway’ to experiencing Ferrari’s race-bred DNA.

In spite (or because) of the car’s hybridized 2.9L twin-turbocharged V6 drivetrain, Ferrari has been emboldened so much by the end-product that they believe it to be the “most fun car to drive in our product range”, both on track and on normal roads. Deliveries won’t begin until 2022, but orders are open right now. No specific word on pricing just yet, though it is expected to hover around the F8 Tributo’s base MSRP of US$277,000.

Best Ferrari Engines Ever Made

There’s no denying that a Pininfarina-designed silhouette is what often defines a Ferrari car. Such a predisposition is ultimately good for selling those posters that ended up plastered on our bedroom walls – the same ones which reminded the younger versions of ourselves to keep dreaming of one day owning one. As we matured and gained more perspective on what makes these cars so special, we began to understand that it’s really the engines that have made these automobiles into the legends they’ve become.

While Ferrari cars are undoubtedly works of art in and of themselves, they’re automobiles first a foremost. They still need to move us in the most literal of ways – as much (if not more) as they do emotionally – to truly become masterpieces. It’s the power plants that are responsible for injecting soul and essence into these iconic Ferraris.

Here are the Best Ferrari Engines Ever Made.

Ferrari Colombo V12Ferrari Colombo V12 Engine

Originally designed by Gioacchino Colombo, this engine can trace its roots back to the very first Ferrari-branded model designed by Ferrari Enzo – the 1947 Ferrari 125 S – where it debuted as a 1.5L V12. The core design of the engine would persevere for more than 4 decades, growing in size, having various levels of forced induction, and becoming a dual-overhead-cam configuration with EFI along the way. Many credit the motor’s longevity to its reputation for being bulletproof.

Successful in both road-going and race track derivatives, the list of Ferrari cars this engine has graced has no shortage of automotive icons; the Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa, Ferrari 250 GTO, and Ferrari 365 GTB/4, just to name a few.

Colombo V12 Models:

Ferrari F140

Ferrari F140 Engine

Ferrari F140 Engine

If the F140 had only powered the (2002-2005) Ferrari Enzo – the first Prancing Horse model where it featured – it would have been no less significant or legendary than it is today. The 65-degree V12 engine debuted on the Enzo as a 6.0L naturally-aspirated V12 unit which produced a staggering 651 hp @ 7,800 rpm and 458 lb-ft of torque @ 5,500 rpm. Over the years, 6.3L versions of the F140 have powered the likes of the hybrid LaFerrari and the F12berlinetta.

It has since evolved to its current peak as a 6.5L power plant – dubbed the F140 GA – which produces 819 hp @ 9,250 rpm and 510 lb-ft of torque @ 7,000 rpm in the 812 Competizione; this makes it the most powerful naturally-aspirated production car engine ever produced to this day. This could likely be one of the final generations of Ferrari V12 engines – whether it be naturally aspirated, turbocharged, or even hybridized – so appreciate it while it’s still around!

F140 Models:

Ferrari F106

Ferrari F106 Engine

Ferrari’s F106 V8 engine dates as far back as 1973, where it first featured in the Dino 308 GT4. Right from the get-go, it produced an impressive 250 hp from a 2.9L naturally-aspirated engine, which featured a flat-plane crank and dual-overhead cams.

Such was the longevity and capability of the F106 unit that it continued to be used – with significant updates and revisions along the way, including electronic fuel injection and multi-valve heads – for more than 30 years. Notable models which were equipped with the engine include the F355, 360 Modena, and arguably the most famous Ferrari of them all; the Ferrari F40, which fashioned a twin-turbocharged version of the F106 producing 471 hp.

F106 Models:

Ferrari F136

Ferrari F136 Engine

The F136 succeeded the legendary F106, first appearing as a 4.3L naturally-aspirated engine in the 2004 Ferrari F430, producing 483 hp. Like the F106, the F136 would see widespread application throughout the Ferrari lineup; however, it was also featured on a number of Maserati models in concert with the relationship between the two marques.

Most notably, a 454 hp, 4.7L version of the F136 featured on the Maserati GranTurismo and is widely regarded as having one of the best engine/exhaust notes to come out of the V8. The F136 would reach its zenith in the Ferrari 458 Italia Speciale, where it cranked out a massive 597 hp from its 4.5L naturally-aspirated power plant.

Perhaps the most significant (and regretful) fact about the F136 is that it is the last naturally-aspirated V8 engine Ferrari would ever produce. It was replaced by the twin-turbocharged F154 V8 engine in 2015, where it debuted on the Ferrari 488 GTB.

F136 Models:

Ferrari F163

Ferrari F163 Engine

As the newcomer on this list, there is understandably a lot less that is known or proven about Ferrari’s new F163 engine. In fact, the model it’s going to debut in – the mid-engined Ferrari 296 GTB – won’t begin its production run for at least a few more months (as of the time of this writing). But with everything we do know at this point, there’s every indication that declaring the F163 as one of the greats is by no means speculative. It promises to be something very special, and for so many reasons.

First off, the F163 is a 2.9L twin-turbocharged V6 hybrid. So while that may suggest that the new power plant is a one-off deal from Ferrari, it actually bears some relation to the F154 V8, as well as Alfa Romeo’s variant known as the 690T, which also happens to be a 2.9L twin-turbocharged V6. Being hybridized via the use of electric motors, one could also look at the 296 GTB as the SF90 Stradale’s little brother. Despite its differences, the F163 should ultimately feel familiar and comfortable within the Ferrari line-up – and that can only be a good thing.

Amicably referred to as the “little V12” internally, this new powerplant utilizes a 120-degree V-angle, which Ferrari says was the “best compromise of power, weight, and packaging.” Not only did this allow the engineers to mount the turbos as close to the exhaust outlets as possible – thereby improving throttle response – but it also lowered the center of gravity as well. We’ll have to wait and see as to whether a V6 hybrid engine could possibly be as symphonically gifted as the other engines we’ve listed, but Ferrari has promised a “satisfying sound.” Expect to see the F163 serving a variety of Ferrari models down the line; I wouldn’t be surprised to see some version of this engine in Ferrari’s upcoming Purosangue SUV model, for starters.

F163 Models:

Most Sought After Ferraris of All Time

Economics 101 by Ferrari S.p.A

Supply: Ferrari produces an incredible car, often in very limited quantities.

Demand: Aforementioned incredible car is (predictably) highly desirable.

Price: Low supply, high demand drive up prices at an exponential rate over time.

So basically, this list could just as well have been titled “Most Expensive Ferraris of All Time” or “Rarest Ferraris of All Time”, but being the “most sought after” provides a happy medium that allows us to pick from a more well-rounded pool of cars. That’ll give us a good mix of collector cars and modern machines, since selections are not made solely on the highest sold-for prices and/or limited quantities built. Our focus is also on production and street-legal examples.

Here are 10 of the Most Sought After Ferraris of All Time.

1962 Ferrari 250 GTO

1962 Ferrari 250 GTOThe Holy Grail of Ferraris.

Using hyperbole to describe the Ferrari 250 GTO is unnecessary. The car speaks for itself. Everybody knows that Ferrari GTOs are considered the biggest trophies in the car-collecting world for their rarity, power, beauty and success on the race track.

In 2018, the record was broken when a US$70 million 250 GTO was sold to David MacNeil (founder of WeatherTech). That particular car won the famed 1964 Tour de France race, followed by a 4th place finish at Le Mans. It’s painted in silver and yellow and despite a winning record on the track, it was remarkably never crashed – unlike many of the other GTOs which remain in existence. Prior to that, the highest price ever paid for an automobile was US$52 million, which was for another (1963) Ferrari 250 GTO in 2013.

1958 Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa

1958 Ferrari 250 Testa RossaWhile Testa Rossas might bring back memories of the 1980s, Miami Vice, and a mid-engine supercar with massive side strakes, it’s this 1958 model which holds the more important place in Ferrari history. Not only was the 250 Testa Rossa (TR) one of Ferrari’s most successful race cars on the track, but it also had an unorthodox, but purposeful body by Scaglietti & C.

As released, the 250 Testa Rossa had seemingly modest engineering. The drum brakes or 250 engine were indeed old technology compared to the disc brakes and DOHC setups that were available. Also, compared to other cars of the era, the Testa Rossa chassis was made bulkier to take on many of the ditches and walls which these cars met. Such throwbacks followed the original design philosophy and helped the Testa Rossas endure to win many races.

1987 Ferrari F40

1987 Ferrari F40To celebrate 40 years of Ferrari, Enzo had his design team create a supercar that translated racing car technology to the road. Furthermore, it was built with only the most essential systems and in many regards is a supercar with functional simplicity. It was also the last car developed and built under Enzo Ferrari’s direct supervision before he passed away.

Although inspired by some of the cars that came before it, the Ferrari F40’s body was an entirely new design. Developed by the Italian Design and Engineering group Pininfarina, the F40 was unique not only in appearance but by the fact that it was the first series-production car ever to use mainly composite materials – including Kevlar, carbon fiber, and aluminum – for all of its body panels. The materials were chosen both for their durability and low weight.

2002 Ferrari Enzo

2002 Ferrari EnzoInspired by Formula One technology, Ferrari’s new Gran Turismo benefits from over fifty years of Ferrari success. Named in honor of the company’s founder, the Enzo is one of a limited series of road cars including the 288GTO, F40, and F50. These cars represent Ferrari’s continuing desire to produce the most exclusive and technologically advanced road car. Branding race-derived technology to road cars is not a new idea, especially to Ferrari. Up until the late fifties, Ferrari’s road and racing cars were practically the same product. Since that time, safety regulations, manufacturing costs, and practicality have distinctly split the cars we race from the cars we drive daily. The goal of the Enzo was to bridge this gap.

During a period of great achievement for Ferrari, the Enzo reflects victories which include four consecutive F1 championships. The Pininfarina styling and semi-automatic, six-speed transmission trace their roots to the heart of motorsport. No doubt, Enzo Ferrari himself would be most proud of this limited series named in his honor. Unlike the Ferrari F50, the Enzo was made with compromises towards driver comfort. Fortunately, Ferrari has used sufficient active systems allowing the level of comfort to be adjusted from the driver’s seat. It is these sophisticated electronics, centered around Ferrari’s best road-worthy engine that makes the Enzo as special as it is.

2011 Ferrari 458 Italia

2011 Ferrari 458 ItaliaIt really is no surprise that the Ferrari 458 Italia is being praised as one of the best cars Ferrari has ever made. Collectively, the Ferrari 458 Italia is one of our most-loved vehicles here at supercars.net. You wouldn’t have to dive very deep to find out why that might be the case, as even just a cursory glance at the car is more than suggestive enough. Whether it be its sleek and timeless Pininfarina design, or its epic 562 hp naturally-aspirated V8 engine with a 9,000 rpm redline; the 458 was destined for greatness the moment the first car drove off the production line. It has already become a modern classic.

In spite of having a naturally-aspirated engine with a 9,000 rpm redline, the Ferrari 458 Italia still isn’t one of the rawest and tactile Ferrari road cars out there. Mind you, we don’t consider that a negative when it comes to this car; one that truly feels greater than the sum of all its parts. But, the Ferrari 458 Italia is a car for the serious occasion – whatever occasion that might be – and it never fails to impress anyone. It gets full marks from us, while the sands of time reveal how iconic the 458 has become and will continue to be. The car is barely a decade old and it’s already a classic in our books. I mean, look at it: it’s timeless.

Subsequent models and trims such as the Spider, Speciale, and Challenge command varying degrees of premium over the original car.

2013 Ferrari LaFerrari

2013 Ferrari LaFerrariWhat happens when quite possibly the world’s greatest supercar and hypercar maker sets out to create its greatest model ever? The Ferrari LaFerrari – that’s what. Described at launch by company president Luca Di Montezemolo as “the maximum expression of what defines our company,” the LaFerrari was revealed at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show.

Limited to just 499 examples (although since an additional 210 Aperta open-top LaFerrari have been produced), the LaFerrari featured a Formula-One derived HY-KERS system – an electric motor teamed to a 6.3-litre V12. Some would shirk at the concept of a hybrid Ferrari, but while enhanced efficiency is a by-product of the LaFerrari’s powertrain, this was by no means Ferrari’s motivation with the system.

Following in the footsteps of legendary Ferrari halo cars like the 288 GTO, the F40, F50, and Enzo, the LaFerrari had its work cut out from the start. Add to that competition – yes, at this insane level of performance and prestige – from Porsche and McLaren with their hybrid hypercars, the 918 and P1, and this ultimate Ferrari model had a lot to deliver in order to stand out.

Ferrari auctioned off the final “new” examples of the Aperta and coupe LaFerrari to benefit charity. The final coupe (car number 500) went for $7 million, in aid of reconstruction in Italy following 2016’s earthquakes. More recently, the last of the run (210th) Aperta convertible broke records when it went under the hammer at RM Sotheby’s, fetching almost $10 million, with the proceeds of the sale going to Save the Children.

2015 Ferrari F12tdf

2015 Ferrari F12tdfThis is the Ferrari F12tdf – a faster, lighter, and more powerful special edition of the Ferrari F12 Berlinetta. Ferrari says the car has been created in homage to the legendary Tour de France road races, which it dominated in the 1950s and 1960s with the likes of the 1956 250 GT Berlinetta.

The F12tdf is described as “the ultimate expression of the concept of an extreme road car that is equally at home on the track”. Just 799 examples were built. The car keeps the same 6.3L naturally-aspirated V12 engine as the regular F12 Berlinetta, but power has been boosted from 730 bhp to 770 bhp at 8,500 rpm, while torque has increased from 509 lb-ft to 520lb-ft of torque at 6,750 rpm. But the changes don’t stop there. The F12tdf is a concentration of technical innovations which involve all those areas central to Ferrari’s DNA: engine, aerodynamics, and vehicle dynamics. As a result, in terms of acceleration, road holding, and agility, the new Berlinetta is second to none.

1957 Ferrari 335 S Spider Scaglietti

1957 Ferrari 335 S Spider ScagliettiThe 1957 Ferrari 335 S Scaglietti is one of the rarest and most expensive Ferraris in the world with only four ever made. The beast is equipped with a 4.1L V12 engine that produces 400 hp and can reach a top speed of 190 mph, which was unheard of in the 50s. Adding to its value is the fact that it was driven by some of the greatest Formula 1 drivers of all time, including Mike Hawthorne and Stirling Moss.

In 2016, a 335 S Spider Scaglietti sold at the Artcurial Retromobile auction in Paris, becoming the second most expensive car ever sold at an auction at the time. The US$35.7 million vehicle was compared to Picasso’s artwork by auctioneers, which was not an unreasonable tactic given what was at stake. While the car enjoyed only a brief existence during its day – with a mixture of successes and failures in motorsport – it nevertheless left a lasting impression in the world of racing and has unquestionable pedigree.

1959 Ferrari 250 GT California Spyder SWB

1959 Ferrari 250 GT California Spyder SWB“Bueller. Bueller. Bueller.”

While the 250 GT was primarily a racing car, it did spawn a line of desirable road-going models, too. In 1959, Ferrari debuted the shorter California Spyder on their stiffer short wheelbase (SWB) chassis. These cars were superior as they had disc brakes, a more powerful engine, and less bulk. Like the LWB model that preceded it, the SWB benefited from a competition-bred chassis and engine.

Sharing its drive train with the legendary 250 GT that won the Tour de France, the California Spyder was a car to get excited about. It had the same 140 mph performance and the same competition chassis as the Ferraris lapping the race tracks. Therefore, it only made sense to equip some examples with competition engines and aluminum bodywork to race at Le Mans and Sebring. These Spyder Competiziones did well in the GT class and tied all California Spyders to a sporting pedigree.

It most famously made a cameo appearance in the cult-classic movie, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off – a 1986 American comedy film written, produced, and directed by John Hughes. These days, there’d be no argument in saying that the Ferrari 250 GT California Spyder SWB ranks alongside fellow 250 compatriots – the GTO and Testa Rossa – as one of the most sought after Ferraris of all time.

1947 Ferrari 125 S

1947 Ferrari 125 SThe Genesis of Ferrari (no, not of Hyundai).

The Type 125 Sport (or Tipo 125 S Competizione) was Enzo Ferrari’s first race car and the first Ferrari to win a race outright. It followed earlier projects such as Scuderia Ferrari – a talented racing crew that brought Alfa Romeo to the top of Grand Prix – and Auto Avio-Construzioni (AAC), Enzo’s immediate pre-world-war creation. Both of these helped shape the 125, which itself would become a testbed for good and bad ideas until the final specification was reached for the 166 Spyder Corsa.

Since enough time had passed since Enzo Ferrari signed his severance agreement with Alfa Romeo, the new car could finally bear his name and his name alone. It was conceived over two years beginning with a clean slate, and its overall design borrowed nothing from any other manufacturer of the day. As a highlight, it would use a V12 engine –  being somewhat of a rarity at the time, the V12 was inspired by Packard’s unit and would garner necessary attention from customers that would eventually bear the fruit of an iconic automaker.

Ultimate Guide – What You Need to Know About Ferraris Brilliant V8 Special Series Cars

GTC, Stradale, Scuderia, Speciale and Pista. We explore Ferraris hardcore, track-inspired mid-engined “Special Series” masterpieces.

Recently, Ferrari launched the 488 Pista and Pista Spider, the latest in a brilliant line of track-inspired mid-engined “special series” road cars. It is the successor to Ferrari’s V8-engined special series  – the 360 Challenge Stradale, 430 Scuderia and 458 Speciale – all critically acclaimed performance cars and some of the most desirable Ferraris on the market. Collectors love them as they hold/grow in value while fans drool over the chance to own these very limited edition machines.

The thing that makes these Ferraris so special is that they feel special, they feel better than other Ferraris. They follow a simple formula where numerous small changes are put them together to transform already great cars into pure perfection. The track inspired special series Ferrari formula is simple. Take a “normal” mid-engined V8 Ferrari and make it lighter, sharper, more aggressive and more exciting. Each generation is better than the previous generation, marking a significant step forward from the previous special series in terms of both sporty dynamics and the level of technological carry-over from racing. The name is, in fact, a direct homage to Ferrari’s unparalleled heritage in motor sports.

It all started in 1993 with a special edition Ferrari V8 you’ve never heard of, the 348 GT Competizione. This was Ferrari’s first homologation special after the magnificent 288 GTO. Built in order to complete in the international GT3 class, Ferrari took their (average at best) entry level, mid engined car and got to work turning it into the ultimate street Ferrari 348. The formula was the same for the Challenge Stradale, 430 Scuderia, 458 Speciale and now the Pista. The interiors are stripped down from all un-necessities like carpeting and leather upholstery, making the cars lot lighter than their normal Ferrari donor. Engines are improved with more horsepower. Electronics and chassis improvements are all focused on performance, while bodywork is altered with aerodynamic efficiency in mind.

The end result are rare, expensive and worth every penny supercars. They are absolutely epic cars and some of our favorite Ferraris ever. Lets dive into the special editions below and tell you all about each one.

1993→1994 Ferrari 348 GT Competizione

1993→1994 Ferrari 348 GT Competizione

Ferrari 348 GT Competizione

Year(s): 1993 / Engine: 3.4L V8 / Power: 315bhp @ 7,200 rpm / Torque: 239 lb/ft @ 5,000 rpm / Power to Weight: 250 bhp/ton / 0-60 mph: 5.3 seconds / Top Speed: 170 mph (estimated) / Units Built: 50 / Verdict: The template was set.

The regular 348 sucked. It was heavy, underpowered and dynamically horrible. Homologation for GT racing transformed it. The 348 GT Competizione was designed specifically for the GT Championship on the 348 GTB platform.

The base 348 went on a 420 pound diet thanks to lots of Kevlar and carbonfiber. The engine had 3.4 liter V8 that generated 315hp (only difference from base 348 was a more free flow exhaust). Power to weight was the same as the later F355. Inside was a serious race car makeover with carbon seats and drilled aluminum pedals and the removal of carpets and other creature comforts like air-conditioning and even floor mats. Stiffer suspension, unassisted steering, shorter gearing, competition clutch and bigger brakes (no ABS) and a short 25/27 gear ratio and a racing clutch with reinforced discs made it a properly engaging car (something that could not be said for the base 348). Even the suspension was modified for racing with rigid rose joints, competition-ready dampers and springs. The standard car’s 17” wheels were replaced by 18” ones with 239/635/18 tires to the front and 265/645/18 to the rear.

Just 50 were built, making it one of the rarest road-going Ferraris. Good luck finding one.

2003→2004 Ferrari 360 Challenge Stradale

2003→2004 Ferrari 360 Challenge Stradale

Ferrari Challenge Stradale

Year(s): 2003 / Engine: 3.6L V8 / Power: 420 bhp @ 8,500 rpm / Torque: 275 lb/ft @ 4,750 rpm / Units Built: ~1,300 / Verdict: Potentially the best sounding car ever.

Ferrari skipped making a special edition F355 (they did build a F355 Challenge race car but there was no road car version). We waited until the 360 to get the true successor to the 348 GTC. Compared with a regular 360 Modena, weight was reduced significantly and the engine was tweaked.

The Challenge Stradale was much more than a redressed 360 with extra power. Its bare-bones approach and subtle styling changes only hint at the thoroughbred under the skin: this is a road-legal car that is entirely race-ready and at home on track. It offered enthusiasts genuine race car performance and features in an accessible, street-legal package that is built on top of a standard production model donor car.

The main goal for the 360 Challenge Stradale was to take 3 seconds off the 360’s Fiorano lap record. He and his team succeeded.

Starting with the 360 Modena, Ferrari engineers removed all equipment deemed superfluous in order to shed weight, lowered and stiffened the suspension, and fitted massive alloy wheels. Inside, the two passengers were treated to bucket seats with racing harnesses and Plexiglas windows. The huge performance gains can largely be attributed to increase in power and a reduction in weight. Ferrari put the 360 on a titanium and carbon fiber diet which shed 243 lbs (110 kgs) off the car.

Having an all-aluminum monocoque and a flat-plane V8 whipping out 395 bhp, the 360 Modena had raised Ferrari’s standards from the preceding F355 that came before it. The Stradale took things further got the 3.6-liter V8 up to 425-hp. Fine tuning is how the engineers at Ferrari extracted more power. Higher-compression combustion chambers, polished ports, and a larger intake tract all contributed. Attached was a dual-flow exhaust which, by means of a valve bypassed most of the deadening for a blaring symphony of noise. This wail is distinctive of the Stradale and is enough of a reason for it to make our list.

Around 1200-1300 are believed to have been made so it is still relatively rare but not impossible to find.

See: All Challenge Stradale Articles

2007 Ferrari F430 Scuderia

2007 Ferrari F430 Scuderia

Ferrari F430 Scuderia

Year(s): 2007 / Engine: 4.3L V8 / Power: 503 bhp @ 8,500 rpm / Torque: 347 lb/ft @ 5,250 rpm / Power to Weight: 378 bhp/ton / 0-60 mph: 3.6 seconds / Top Speed: 198 mph / Units Built: 1,800 / Verdict: The sweet spot.

The extreme version of that already awesome F430 and one of our favorite cars ever was the F430 Scuderia. The 430 Scuderia was a truly high-performance 2-seater berlinetta that demonstrated how Ferrari’s Formula 1 know-how is carried across to its production cars. Fitted with a naturally-aspirated 4308cc V8’s and 510 hp at 8500 rpm it is one of the best engines ever.

The F430 Scuderia built on the now familiar special series recipe. Light, largely composite bodywork, aero tuned for extra downforce in corners, a stripped out interior and fettled engine and electronics. The F430’s 220 pound weight loss program came from removing carpeting, glove box, and radio. Trim was carbon fiber, floor mats were out in favor of aluminum plating.

Where the 458 took performance to another level and things have continue to escalate from then on, the F430 Scuderia feels like the real sweet spot in terms of cars that can actually be enjoyed and really tested on the road. It was the last Ferrari to use the “F1-style” paddle-shift transmission before they switched to dual-clutch so it has a level of engagement that later models are missing. The F1 Superfast 2 gearbox gave rapid gearchanges and coupled with the F1-Trac traction control and E-Diff electronic differential it deployed power to maximum effect. While peak power was only 20bhp up on the regular F430, the ferocious way it was delivered when all of these things combined was something else and it transformed the way to Scud felt.

At Fiorano it lapped faster than the Enzo. It is thought as many as 1,800 units were made.

See: All Ferrari F430 Scuderia Articles / The 430 Scuderia In-Depth

Ferrari F430 Spider 16M

Year(s): 2009 / Engine: 4.3L V8 / Power: 503 bhp @ 8,500 rpm / Torque: 347 lb/ft @ 5,250 rpm / Power to Weight: 378 bhp/ton / 0-60 mph: 3.6 seconds / Top Speed: 198 mph / Units Built: 499 / Verdict: A genuine hardcore soft-top Ferrari

This was the last Ferrari F430. The limited edition (only 499 we built) Scuderia Spider 16M was built to celebrate Ferrari’s 16 Formula One constructors’ championships and it is based on the Ferrari Scuderia coupe. The basics are the same as the Scuderia with the 16M getting the higher compression 4.3 liter V8 that is good for an extra 20bhp and 4 lb/ft torque over the base Spider. Bodykit, aero, suspension, interior and electronics are all fettled like the Scuderia coupe too. The 16M weighs in around 3300 pounds, about 200 fewer pounds than an F430 Spider, or just over 200 more pounds than a 430 Scuderia.

Did the changes make a difference? You bet. Ferrari clocked the Scuderia Spider 16M around Fiorano test circuit and said it was faster than any open-top road car it has ever built. It isn’t just track performance though, because the best part about the 16M is the way it combines hardcore performance with daily driver usability. This is an open top car remember so it is a good thing that the suspension is adjustable and in its softest settings is actually quite good at massaging away the hardcore nature of the rest of the package.

Perhaps the best part of the 16M is that it intensifies the Scuderia experience. With the top down the noise is just absurdly good. That flat plank V8 Ferrari engine, all 503hp revving to 8,500 rpm is the best thing you have ever heard, the closest thing to an F1 engine you will ever experience. Today’s turbocharged Ferraris don’t come close to the same intoxicating excitement. \It is an astonishing car.

See: All Ferrari F430 Scuderia 16M Articles 

Ferrari 458 Speciale

Year(s): 2013 / Engine: 4.5L V8 / Power: 597 bhp @ 9,000 rpm / Torque: 398 lb/ft @ 6,000 rpm / Power to Weight: 4350 bhp/ton / 0-60 mph: 3.0 seconds / Top Speed: 202 mph / Units Built: ~2,000 / Verdict: The end of an era. Perfection

Let’s start by saying that this is absolutely our favorite car ever. Period, full stop, the end. It took the already epic “entry level” 458 and with the Speciale, Ferrari amped everything up to 11. It is arguably the best naturally aspirated sports car in history.

The 458 Speciale was the last naturally-aspirated V8 Ferrari and the engine was at its peak in terms of evolution. Mid-engined 4.5-litre V8 with flat-plane-crank, sky high 9,000 RPM redline, insane 597 bhp and 398 lb-ft of torque, making this the most powerful naturally aspirated V8 ever built at Maranell. The Speciale was one special Ferrari.

Performance was astonishing for a naturally aspirated car. The 0-62 mph sprint was over in 3.4 seconds and top speed was over 200 mph. More importantly, the Speciale does everything well. It took the already amazing 458 and somehow made it better, faster and more fun to drive. Gearshifts were faster, the active aero tuned to maximize downforce in corners and minimize drag on the straights, and the brakes were adapted from the LaFerrari. Steering response times and lateral g were the best ever recorded for a Ferrari production car. New for the Ferrari Speciale was the Side Slip Angle Control (SSC), which used sensors and the E-Diff to help the committed driver to hold lurid tail-slides.

No official production numbers, but it is thought to be about 2,000 units. The best V8 Ferrari ever? You bet.

See: All Ferrari 458 Speciale Articles

2014 Ferrari 458 Speciale A

2014 Ferrari 458 Speciale A

Ferrari 458 Speciale A

Year(s): 2013 / Engine: 4.5L V8 / Power: 597 bhp @ 9,000 rpm / Torque: 398 lb/ft @ 6,000 rpm / Power to Weight: 4350 bhp/ton / 0-60 mph: 3.0 seconds / Top Speed: 202 mph / Units Built: 499 / Verdict: Most powerful naturally-aspirated V8 open top ever

The Speciale A followed the 16M’s exclusivity formula with just 499 units made. Unlike the 16M which had a fabric roof, Ferrari decided the Speciale A should have the same folding hard-top as the regular 458 Spider. That adds weight and had many pundits concerned that the Speciale A was more of a marketing exercise than the awesome 16M. At 1445kg the numbers were worrying for hard core fans. To offset its weight, Ferrari did the right thing and added the same powerplant as the Speciale to its open top sibling. As a result, the 458 Speciale A sports the most powerful naturally-aspirated road-going V8 engine ever built by Ferrari with a massive 597 hp at 9000 rpm.

Performance wise, the Speciale A was an absolute beast, sprinting to 62 mph in just 3.0 seconds and logging a Fiorano test track lap time of 1:23.5. It combined extreme performance with the intimacy of open-top driving. Like the Scuderia 16M the open top makes the engine and even bigger part of the overall experience.  Like the Speciale coupe the open top has a raft of aerodynamics, chassis and electronic improvements all designed to make it hardcore and livable at the same time. Probably the best open top performance car we have ever seen.

See: All Ferrari 458 Speciale Articles

Ferrari 488 Pista

Year(s): 2018 / Engine: 3.9 liter Twin-Turbo V-8 / Power: 711 hp @ 8000 rpm / Torque: 568 lb/ft @ 3000 rpm 0-60 mph: 5.3 seconds / Top Speed: 211 mph / Verdict: Turbocharging can be awesome too

Ferrari first unveiled its new track-focused 488 variant at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2018. Given the moniker “Pista” – which translated from Italian, means “track” – the latest iteration of Ferrari’s mid-engined V8 is faster than ever before and pays homage to the manufacturer’s remarkable motorsports heritage. The new 710-horsepower 488 Pista is the current successor to Ferrari’s famed v8-engined special series, which boasts the 360 Challenge Stradale, 430 Scuderia and 458 Speciale in its lineage. While Ferrari is now taking orders for the Pista, an official release date and U.S. pricing have yet to be confirmed.

While there have not yet been any test drives of a 488 Pista production-spec model, a select group of very lucky automotive journalists were able to take a test mule out for some hot laps at Ferrari’s private racetrack – Fiorano Circuit near Maranello, Italy. With an official test driver, the car is reported to complete a lap of Fiorano in 1:21.5; a very distinguishable 1.5 seconds quicker than a 488 GTB.

UK news site, The Week, provided a compilation of what some of the critics had to say. Overall, reports from the likes of Auto Express and Top Gear note the Pista’s bang-for-buck as a“hypercar-beating machine” and provide plenty of praise for its special handling characteristics, super-accurate steering and “brilliantly balanced chassis”. It is a car that is“just as at home on the road as it is on the circuit”, they add.

Autocar reports that Ferrari 488 Pista pricing starts at £252,695, which means that we can expect U.S. pricing to begin north of the USD $340,000 mark. Don’t worry though because they’re all sold out so even if you did want one you would out of luck.

See: All Ferrari 488 Pista Articles

Ferrari 488 Pista

Ferrari 488 Pista

Ferrari 488 Pista Spider

Year(s): 2019 / Engine: 3.9 liter Twin-Turbo V-8 / Power: 711 hp @ 8000 rpm / Torque: 568 lb/ft @ 3000 rpm 0-60 mph: 5.3 seconds / Top Speed: 211 mph / Verdict: TBD

Earlier this year, we reviewed the 2019 Ferrari 488 Pista – Ferrari’s most powerful V8 ever. The 488 Pista is the marque’s latest Special Series model and – following in the footsteps of its predecessors – epitomizes the pinnacle of Ferrari road cars. Ferrari decided to surprise the world with a Spider version at this year’s Pebble Beach Concours D’elegance event in California, taking place in late August. The Spider is a convertible with a removal hardtop, though some would argue it functions more closely to targa top vehicle. Ferrari also revealed that the new Pista Spider will become the 50th convertible model in the company’s history.

The Ferrari 488 Pista Spider is powered by the same engine used in the coupe – a twin-turbocharged 3.9L V8 which produces a magnificent 711-horsepower and 568 lb-ft of torque.

The Spider weighs 200 pounds more than the coupe, but despite the extra hardware needed to accommodate the removable hardtop, it is remarkably still able to achieve 0-100 km/h in 2.85 seconds – the exact same as the fixed-roof variant. Thanks to proper aerodynamics, the Spider also manages to equal the coupe’s top speed of 340 km/h, so long as the hardtop remains on.

Elsewhere on the car, the Spider differentiates itself from the coupe by way of a larger front splitter, a new deck lid and side skirts, and a redesigned rear diffuser. The Spider is also fitted with special livery – a central stripe that runs the length of the car which Ferrari proclaims, “recalls the movement of the airflow and exalts the lines of the car”. Exclusive options such as one-piece carbon fibre wheels (in lieu of the standard also-unique-diamond-finish alloy wheels) will also be made available on the convertible.

While the Ferrari 488 Pista Spider is still considered a concept with no release date or pricing information yet, we do expect that the car should enter production in the near future. Ferrari has openly acknowledged the popularity of convertibles – particularly in the U.S. – and will be incentivized to to appeal to their demand.

See: All Ferrari 488 Pista Articles

15 Affordable & Reasonably Priced Ferraris for First Time Collectors

Second Hand Ferraris: Our Favorite Modern and Classic Ferraris For Under $120,000.

Ask nearly any car enthusiast which dream cars they want and odds are there is at least one Ferrari on their wish list. The question is can you buy a used or vintage Ferrari on a budget?

Many people think you need millions of dollars in the bank to get into a Ferrari. We recently published our 100 most expensive Ferraris and best limited edition Ferrari list and it took about five minutes for readers to complain that the lists were useless because there are only a few hundred people in the world that can actually afford these cars. Fair point. Luckily, we love creating best of Ferrari lists so we decided to do some research and give you the list of the best affordable Ferraris you can buy. The good news is that we found plenty of Ferraris that still sell for prices within reach of most car guys.

Classic or Modern Ferrari? Which is Best?

We are car guys and we know there are nuances that matter when it comes to these topics. Nobody we know says “I have $50k to spend on a car and my only requirement is that it is a Ferrari”. Everybody is different. For example, what determines an affordable Ferrari to one person is different than another. For one person a bargain Ferrari is one that has depreciated a lot, is likely to maintain its current value and is under $150k. Another person wants a heritage Ferrari that is slower than a Honda Civic but is perfect for a first time Ferrari collector. To another person it is quite simply finding the cheapest car, the true entry point into Ferrari ownership.

The good news is that today you don’t need six figures to buy a good Ferrari. The bad news is that for six figures you can also buy a turd of a Ferrari. For example, you can probably get your hands on a classic Ferrari for well less than $100k, but expect absurdly high maintenance costs, skyhigh parts prices and labor costs to scare the life out of you. With older Ferrari prices climbing quickly that may be the Ferrari bargain you want, but remember the market is pretty balanced so there are no free rides.

If you want a more modern Ferrari that is fast, handles well and has low maintenance costs then expect to pay up. Sure there are some affordable Ferraris around like that, but once again buyer beware because if it seems too good to be true, then it usually is.

It is not all doom and gloom of course. Whether you’re looking for a modern car that is easy to maintain or a classic Ferrari that’s still affordable there are a lot of great options within reach of most first time Ferrari buyers. In this article, we list try to finds them.

We decided the split the list by modern Ferrari and classic Ferrari models. The main reason being that those two buyers are radically different. So how did we decide what makes a classic Ferrari and a modern Ferrari. We looked at Wikipedia of course:

“A classic car is an older automobile; the exact definition varies around the world. The common theme is of an older car with enough historical interest to be collectable and worth preserving or restoring rather than scrapping. Cars 20 years and older typically fall into the classic class”

That was good enough for us. So here are our favorite budget Ferraris:

Modern Ferraris Under $120,000

How do we define a modern Ferrari? Great question. We asked around and the consensus was that a Ferrari made in the last twenty years would be appropriate to call a modern Ferrari. People also said they think of a modern Ferrari as one that is easy to maintain and that is quick by modern standards.

What we found is that you can find some awesome five figure Ferraris that are modern and reliable. The tasty models in this section of our list are probably the most interesting to us because they suit buyers who grew up with Ferrari posters on their walls and are now coming to an age where they have the means to buy their first Ferrari. Sure some of those guys are buying new 488s, but most are looking to spend less than $120,000 on a car.

So let’s get this straight. This buyer wants a Ferrari and they want to spend less than $120,000. They want it to look modern, not break down or cost a fortune to service and they want it to be fast and sound like a true Ferrari.

Sounds easy. Here we go:

Best Second Hand Ferraris To Buy - Ferrari F355

Best Second Hand Ferraris To Buy - Ferrari F355

1. Ferrari F355

Model Years: 1995-1998 / Units Produced: 11,273 / Engine: 3.5L V8 / Horsepower: 375 hp / Price Guide: $70,000 – $90,000 USD

If I had $70k to spend on a Ferrari our choice would be the Ferrari F355. First it is easily the best looking modern-day Ferrari, much nicer than the butch 1980s Ferraris we had to deal with. Second, there are a lot of F355s out there with over 11,000 units made from 1995 till 1998 so picking one up for reasonable money and in good condition is totally doable. Third, while closely related to those late-model 348s, the F355 was a massive step forward technically, with way more performance and refinement (and way better sound too). This is a true modern Ferrari and it is reasonably priced and a relative bargain when you factor in maintenance costs compared to the 348s before it. Perhaps the coolest thing about the F355 is that you can actually get one in manual. Yes, gated shift, awesome, back to basics manual. Hallelujah. Sign me up.

The F355 was introduced in 1994 for the 1995 model year. Body style wise, there were Berlinetta (coupe), GTS (targa roof) and Spider (convertible) models available. Manual gearboxes we standard until 1997 with the launch of the F1 gearbox (a single-clutch automated transmission). Our pick would be a six-speed manual in GTS (targa roof) spec and optional Fiorano handling pack although other buyers seem to agree so they tend to go for a little more.

The F355 is a special car to drive. The flat-plane-crank V8 doesn’t actually sound that good when you’re cruising, but floor the throttle and it will make the hairs on the back of your neck stand up. The 3.5-liter V-8 (375 hp) has five valves per cylinder, revs beyond 8000 rpm and propelled the gets you to 60 mph in under five seconds. It’s that screaming, rev to the skies Ferrari V8 that does it for me, it is just awesome and once you get to its sweet spot that V8 sound develops a hard edge and screams in true V8 Ferrari tradition. The F355 drives really well and while a new hot hatch will destroy it performance wise, it is a genuinely balanced and sporty car in the twisty stuff and with a manual gearbox and that exploitable and enjoyable V8 right behind you there are fewer better feelings in the world.

More: Ferrari 355 In-Depth

2000 Ferrari 360 Modena Gallery

2000 Ferrari 360 Modena Gallery

2. Ferrari 360 Modena

Model Years: 2000-2004 / Units Produced: 8,500 (Modena), 7,500 (Spider), 1,288 (Challenge Stradale) / Engine: 3.6L V8 / Horsepower: 400 hp / Price Guide: $70,000 – $90,000 USD

The 360 Modena was a replacement for the F355. I was not a big fan of the 360 Modena design when it launched in 1999 (still not a fan actually), but boy did this Ferrari change the game technically. It combined strong performance, everyday refinement and all-around usability into a package that was truly a supercar you could drive every day. For lucky buyers looking for a modern Ferrari at reasonable money, the great news is that the 360 Modena is actually quite affordable and can be yours for between $70,000 and $90,000 for a nice example. Ferrari produced 17,000 units so there are a lot of good examples to be found.

When the Ferrari 360 Modena arrived it was the first Ferrari with an all-aluminum chassis which made it 130 pounds lighter than the F355 and gave it 65 percent more torsional rigidity. While the design didn’t do anything for me it was advanced in that it had been the first production Ferrari that had thousands of hours of wind tunnel testing to optimize aerodynamics. The result was 400 pounds of downforce at 180 mph (with no wing).

How about the engine? The 3.6-liter V8 engine was another masterpiece. With 400-hp and six-speed transmission, it hit 0-60 mph in 4.4 seconds and topped out at 186 mph. It was also three seconds a lap faster around the Fiorano test track than the F355. You could opt for either an F1 paddle shift or six-speed manual.

The 360 Modena was more comfortable and much roomier inside than the F355. It was also reliable and much cheaper to service. Maintenance wise the scary thought of days of labor taking engine out and putting it back just to change a cambelt (an issue that plagued earlier mid-engined Ferraris) was a thing of the past. The addition of more modern technology and a focus on reliability means that maintenance costs aren’t out of this world (for a Ferrari). Believe it or not this is an engine that does better the more you drive it, so don’t be scared off by higher mileage 360s assuming of course they have up to date books.

The Modena and Spider offer very similar driving experiences – comfortable, fast and great handling. The steering is very quick and accurate. Compared to the F355 you can feel the more rigid body and the stronger motor. The 360 is easier to drive, more composed and more fun than the F355 and the additional power makes it seriously fast even by today’s standards. It feels faster in person than the numbers suggest and has an exhaust note that will go down in history books as one of the best sounding cars ever. You could drive the F360 everyday, it is comfortable and relatively reliable while still being fun.

Our pick is a manual Spider (actually our pick Challenge Stradale but that’s not a bargain).

More:  Ferrari 360 Modena In-Depth

2005 Ferrari F430 Gallery

2005 Ferrari F430 Gallery

3. Ferrari F430

Model Years: 2004–2009 / Engine: 4.3L V8 / Horsepower: 483 hp / Price Guide: $ $100,000 – $125,000 USD

While the Scuderia the one we really want, it is still not “bargain” money so we’re going to talk about the F430 Spider and Coupe F430 versions are starting at just under $90,000 (that’s 991 Porsche money). We would recommend that you spend a little extra and get one that has excellent books and history.

Make no mistake, even today the F430 is epic. Top Gear called it the best car in the world when they first reviewed it and I drove one recently and would call it the best balance between daily driveability, reasonable cost and absurd but usable performance on the road. A 458 is too fast for the road and a 360 Modena is slower than a fast hatch. An F430 is perfect and it still feels super special and exotic even today.

The F430 may have carried over some chassis and body elements from the 360 but it was clear from the beginning that it was a significantly improved sports car. Technological updates included such things as a new electronic e-diff and an all new 4.3 liter naturally aspirated V8 that makes 483 horsepower at an awesome 8,500 rpm redline. It weighs 3,200 pounds and reaches 0-60 in 3.8 seconds. The sound is the best in the business, especially when revving to the stratosphere.

When it was launched all the journalists raved about it. Handling was supposedly fantastic. Straight line performance was out of this world. Engagement and feeling were the best ever for a Ferrari. People talked about how the electronics enhanced the driving experience. All these years later the above are all still true with the addition of two important facts. Behind the wheel of the F430 is still a blast and it ia teaming with feel, is flat in corners and is enjoyable on the street, mountain pass or on track. It is really comfortable and surprisingly easy to maneuver in daily traffic too. Add reasonable service and running costs and a price under $100,000, this may be the bargain of the bunch.

See: Ferrari F430 In-Depth

2009→2012 Ferrari California

2009→2012 Ferrari California

4. Ferrari California

Model Years: 2009–2014 / Units Produced:~13,500 / Engine: 4.3L V8 / Horsepower: 453 hp / Price Guide: $ $100,000 – $135,000 USD

According to Wikipedia, the Ferrari California was: The first front engined Ferrari with a V8, the first to feature a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, the first hard top convertible with a folding metal roof, the first with multi-link rear suspension, the first with direct petrol injection. That is a lot of firsts for the first generation California (from 2015–2018 the California was updated with new styling a new turbo engine and is too expensive to be on our bargain list). A lot of purists hated the California because it wasn’t hardcore enough.

Yes, this is a real Ferrari and yes it is a relative bargain these days. For under $100k gets you a Ferrari V8 you can drive every day. We can assure you having driven the California it is a great Ferrari and is legitimate fun and very fast. Sure, it is not a canyon carver like a 458 but it is the perfect daily driver and is easily the most practical Ferrari you can buy.

It’s a softer, more approachable Ferrari which is why which 70 percent of California buyers so were new to the brand. If you want a Ferrari that is quick with a blend of everyday usability and outright enjoyment, then this might be the Ferrari V8 bargain for you.

While the California was made all the way through 2017 we suggest you focus on the earlier 2008 to 2012 models if you’re looking for a true bargain.

See: Ferrari California In-Depth

1997 Ferrari 550 Maranello Gallery

1997 Ferrari 550 Maranello Gallery

5. Ferrari 550 Maranello

Model Years: 1996–2001 / Units Produced: 3,083 / Engine: 5.5 L V12 / Horsepower: 478 hp / Price Guide: $100,000 – $120,000 USD

The Ferrari 550 Maranello launched as a 1996 model and was a replacement to the aging Testarossa/512TR models. Unlike the Testarossa the 550 Maranello returned to a front-engine layout like the classic Ferrari GTs (think Daytona and 275) of yesteryear. The end result was the a massive upgrade over its predecessor, with better handling, more comfort, practicality and better looking proportions. Ferrari 550 Maranello had a 5.5 liter V12 with 478 horsepower and rear wheel drive. The design has the perfect front engines GT proportions and looks modern even today, aging very well.

The manual gearbox and well weighted steering mean that the handling balance and driveability of the 550 stand out on the road. It is perfectly powered too (especially compared to the crazy F12 or 812 Superfast) so you are total ease behind the wheel, comfortable giving it the beans and really pushing it without the fear of something bad happening. It is way more engaging and fun than the rockets being made today (call us old school). The fantastic powertrain combined with comfortable seats and a decent amount of space to make an absolutely brilliant grand tourer.

While you can buy a 550 for under US$120,000 we are seeing that values have been steadily increasing over the last twelve months or so. Ferrari made a relatively small number of 550s, with only 3,083 units sold between 1996 and 2001. As always look for a good service history and updated books when shopping.

See: Ferrari 550 In-Depth

6. Ferrari 575M Maranello

Model Years: 2002–2006 / Units Produced: 2,056 / Engine: 5.7 L V12 / Horsepower: 508 hp / Price Guide: $100,000 – $120,000 USD

A funny thing happened when we researched this list. We had both the 550 Maranello and the 575 on our list and then we realized that you can buy the 575M for less than a 550 (on average). Not sure why because there were only 2,056 575s made compared to the 550s and the 575 was overall a better car. Nostalgia I guess, but I suspect we will see 575M Maranello prices creep up sooner rather than later.

The 575M is pretty close to the 550. The 575M showed up in 2002 and had a revised, more aggressive design, a nicer interior, more power and adaptive suspension. Boring out the V12 to 5.75 liters gave the 575M 515 horsepower (37 more than the 550). The changes made a difference. You could also order the 575M with the flappy paddle F1 transmission that was clearly faster than the manual for lap times.

In terms of driving, the 575M felt sharper than the 550 with more immediacy and less inertia. Journalists said: “it feels lighter on its springs when driven hard into compressions, and less prone to the 550’s habit of running out of body control when confronted with a series of awkwardly spaced crests and troughs. There’s still a lot of momentum at work, and you can still drive the Maranello hard into its bump stops, but the 575’s adaptive dampers feel better able to keep the mass in check”.

See: Ferrari 575 In-Depth

2010 Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano HGTE

2010 Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano HGTE

7. Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano

Model Years: 2007–2012 / Engine: 6.0 L V12 / Horsepower: 612 hp / Price Guide: Starts at $120,000 USD

We admit we were a little sneaky here. We found three Ferrari 599 GTBs for under $120,000 in the entire United States so technically the 599 makes our list at just under our price limit. Clearly you won’t find a great example for that kind of money but its hard not to include a masterpiece Ferrari in our list of awesome modern Ferrari’s for bargain money.

The Ferrari 599 was the successor to the 575M Maranello and arrived in 2006 for the 2007 model year. It was a statement by Ferrari about the future of the Grand Touring segment. Gone were the classic, flowing, “designer is king” GT proportions, replaced by aero-first designs that are all about efficiency and performance. The front-engined V12 format stayed but how the engine performed and felt were radically transformed forever. A new era where the modern classic 575 was replaced by F1-tech-laden 599.

The chassis was all-aluminium and changing gears was via a super fast F1 paddle shift gearbox. The 599 also came with things like F1-Trac stability and traction control, magnetic semi-active dampers and carbon-ceramic brakes. It was a total departure from front engined Ferraris that came before it. The 599’s V12 engine was basicallty a detuned Enzo unit with 6.0-liter displacement and 612 bhp at 8400 rpm. At the time it made the 599 GTB the most powerful front engine Ferrari ever.

We found this quote by EVO magazine to describe the 599 which we loved: “Flat-out in the 599 is an all-consuming experience, each gear delivering a more intense hit than the last. The Veyron may post fiercer figures, but it surely can’t match the Fiorano’s naturally aspirated immediacy on give-and-take roads” (evo 093).

Price wise you are going to struggle to find a 599 for under $120,000. It is worth noting that the 599 also had a HGTE pack option and those cars go for way more than the base 599 GTB. If you’re not that budget conscious the HGTE packages is worth the extra money because it comes with firmer springs and rear anti-roll bar, lowered ride height and modified magnetic suspension settings, sharpen throttle response, while the exhaust allows more of the V12’s noise to be heard in the cabin. If budget is truly no issue, just pony up the $800,000+ it costs to get the super-limited edition 599 GTO and call it a day.

See: Ferrari 599 In-Depth


Classic Ferraris Under $120,000

The modern stuff a little to sedate and plain for you? Are you looking for a little more nostalgia in your Ferrari? Did you grow up with Ferrari and Lamborghini posters on your wall? Then a classic Ferrari may be the way to go. While we all know that the market for classic and rare Ferraris has cars selling for tens of millions of dollars, you don’t need to be a millionaire to drive a classic Ferrari. In fact as we found some tasty entry level Ferraris that a new collector could buy for less than $100,000.

1973 Ferrari Dino 308 GT4 Gallery

1973 Ferrari Dino 308 GT4 Gallery

1. Ferrari Dino 308 GT4

Model Years: 1973–1980 / Engine: 3.0 L Dino V8 / Horsepower: 250 hp / Price Guide: $60,000 – $70,000

We will be the first ones to say that buying a 1970s era Ferrari isn’t for the faint of heart. Initially badged as a Dino the 308 GT4 only officially became a ‘real’ Ferrari three years later. We love the cool ‘70s wedge-shaped car and it’s fun 250bhp V8. While 0-60mph in 6.9 seconds is not fast by today’s standard, we can say that driving this car is a real experience.

There is some historical value here too with this being Ferrari’s first V8 road car and the marque’s first mid-engined 2+2, but the 308 GT4 (‘3’ for 3 litres,‘8’ for 8 cylinders, ‘4’ for 4 seats). Even more historically significant was that this Ferrari was designed by Bertone rather than Pininfarina. It is also pretty practical. The transversely mounted engine means that the GT4 was a 2+2 and is pretty roomy back there (for kids, not adults) and ever had reasonable luggage space to boot.

Our pick is the earlier models since they got the full 250 hp (emissions laws meant post 1976 models were down to 200 hp thanks to catalytic converters). Plus the earlier models sounded better with that awesome four-cam 3.0-liter V8 fed by four Weber carburetors – real old school V8 goodness. It might come as a surprise to find that a 308GT4 can be reliable given regular servicing. Overall, the 308 GT4 is one of the most reasonably affordable ways to buy a Ferrari.

See: Dino 308 GT4 In-Depth

1977→1979 Ferrari 308 GTB

1977→1979 Ferrari 308 GTB

2. Ferrari 308 GTB/GTS

Model Years: 1975–1985 / Engine: 2.9 L V8 / Horsepower: 240 – 252 bhp  / Price Guide: $45,000 – $65,000

The Pininfarina designed 308 was the first of the mid-engined V8 breed to emerge from Ferrari and made its debut in 1975. While it is slow by today’s standards it is just a great car all around and so much fun.

The carb-fed 2.9-litre mid-mounted V8 packed 252 hp and hustled the ~2,000 pound Ferrari to 60 mph in 6 seconds (not bad for 1975). Top speed was 152 mph. The classic design is known by everybody and is still pretty modern with its wedge shape and vents.

Ferrari expanded the 308 lineup with several variants of the coupe and convertible models. The mid-mounted V-8 was essentially the same as in the Dino GT4’s, a 3.0-liter quad-cam, first with Weber carbs and then fuel injection from the early 1980s. A V8 with four valves per cylinder made its debut in 1982.

For most this is the Ferrari they remember growing up, thanks in large part to Magnum, P.I. That means while prices are quite reasonable today, we are seeing upward pressure and expect that to continue over time. Ferrari made thousands of 308s so take your time picking a good one. The 308 was available in Berlinetta (GTB) and Targa (GTS forms), with the coupe being rarer than its open top sibling.

See: Ferrari 208/308/328 Articles

1986 Ferrari 328 GTS Gallery

1986 Ferrari 328 GTS Gallery

3. Ferrari 328 GTS

Model Years: 1986-1989 / Engine: 3.2 L V8 / Horsepower: 270 bhp  / Price Guide: $65,000 – $80,000

In the mid-80s, the elegant shape of the open-topped 308 GTS was further softened and rounded to become – once a 270bhp 3.2-liter engine had been fitted amidships – the 328 GTS.

The curvier body not only updated the looks, it also improved the aerodynamics. Inside the new drop-top, the now outdated 1970s seats and trim and switchgear were also thoroughly refreshed.

Launched at the Frankfurt Motor Show of 1985, the 328 GTS was an instant hit and – during the four years of its production – more than 6,000 cars were sold: around five times as many as its hard-topped brother, the 328 GTB.

The extra displacement and 270 horsepower meant it was more fun to drive than the 308. The 328 is also considered by some Ferrari enthusiasts to be one of the most reliable Ferraris; unlike some models, most engine maintenance can be performed without lowering the engine from the vehicle.

See: Ferrari 328 GTS In-Depth

1985 Ferrari Mondial 3.2

1985 Ferrari Mondial 3.2

4. Ferrari Mondial

Model Years: 1980-1993 (all models) / Engine: 2.9-3.4 L V8 / Horsepower: 214-300 bhp  / Price Guide: $30,000 – $60,000

The Mondial was one of Ferrari’s most commercially successful models, with over 6,000 examples produced over its thirteen-year run and that is good for second hand prices. The Mondial underwent many updates throughout its production with four distinct variants produced: the Mondial 8, Mondial QV, Mondial 3.2, and Mondial t. All but the Mondial 8 were released in both coupé and cabriolet (convertible) body form. It was the successor to the 308 GT4 and this time Pininfarina was in charge of design.

This is a practical Ferrari. It had a longer wheelbase which meant some more space for the back seats and, thanks to this and its greater levels of comfort. It is a genuinely useable Ferrari. Today, Mondial is a byword for an affordable – but still high-performance – classic Ferrari.

Our pick is the final Mondial variant, the Mondial t, released in 1989. This contained some of the biggest changes in the Mondial history, with an even-larger 3.4 l (210 cu in) engine, a substantial update to the exterior styling and interior ergonomics, and with an entirely new, albeit more complex to service, powertrain. Overall the Mondial t is considered the best vehicle in the range regarding overall performance and refinement, although it is often noted that this comes at the cost of greater maintenance.

See: Ferrari Mondial T In-Depth

1985 Ferrari 412i

1985 Ferrari 412i

5. Ferrari 412i

Model Years: 1985–1989 (all models) / Units Produced: 576 Engine: 4.9 L V12 / Horsepower: 335 hp  / Price Guide: $40,000 – $60,000

This is probably the most unique looking classic Ferrari with its angular lines and non-curvaceous body. A total of 576 examples of the 412 model were produced during the production run (the 400 sold over 3,000 units over 16 years).

The 412 is the final evolution of Ferrari 400 model. Introduced in 1985 the 412 was a direct replacement for the 400 and saw the engine grow to 4.9-litres.  The 412 replaced the 400i. A higher boot line and deeper front spoiler were the most notable visual changes and a raft of other changes included new sill panels, new wheels, clear indicator lenses and black windscreen and window surrounds. The 412 was also the first Ferrari to offer Bosch ABS as standard.

While we love the 365GT4 2+2 with its large V12 and great handling coupled with luxurious leather interior, it was the 400 and later 400i that are our favorites because they added the automatic gearbox which better suited the cars characteristics. Peak power of 340bhp was also delivered at lower revs which made it more drivable day to day. Today, the 412i is great value and is one cheapest Ferraris you can buy.

See: Ferrari 412 in depth

1984→1991 Ferrari Testarossa

1984→1991 Ferrari Testarossa

6. Ferrari Testarossa

Model Years: 1984-1996 / Engine: 4.9 L flat-12 / Horsepower: 385 hp  / Price Guide: $90,000 – $110,000

The Testarossa became the poster-car exotic for the late 1980s. Made famous for its role in Miami Vice and Sega’s Out Run, the Testarossa was Ferraris definitely the leading supercar in the mid-eighties. Its distinctive side strakes and ultra-wide rear track inspired many other supercar designs and they became a symbol of 1980’s retrograde culture.

Compared to the 512i BB it effectively replaced, the Testarossa was a larger car that accommodated mid-mounted radiators. This helped reduce cockpit heat and also had the effect of making the car much wider at the rear. It also provided more space in the front trunk.

The Testarossa was powered by a 4.9-liter version of Ferrari’s Boxer-12 which was effectively a 180º V12. Producing 390 bhp, 0–60 miles per hour was typically clocked at 5.2 seconds. Ferrari built 7000 units through 1991 when it introduced the 512TR, really an evolution of the car most notable for lowering the flat-12 engine in the chassis to improve handling.

The Testarossa can be purchased for just under $100,000 but nice examples go for $120,000 or more. We are seeing values increase too so this is solid investment for the first time Ferrari collector.

See: Ferrari Testarossa in depth

1993→1994 Ferrari 348 GT Competizione

1993→1994 Ferrari 348 GT Competizione

7. Ferrari 348

Model Years: 1989–1995 / Units Produced: 8,844 / Engine: 3.4 L V8 / Horsepower: 300 hp  / Price Guide: $40,000 – $60,000

Introduced in 1989, the 348 was a major departure for Ferrari’s successful road-going, mid-engine series of sports cars and it replaced two of the most popular Ferrari models in history, the 308 and the 328. The new car featured a pressed-steel monocoque chassis that helped to reduce mass and, in the style of the legendary 288 GTO, it combined a transversely mounted gearbox coupled to a longitudinally mounted engine allowing for a very balanced and agile sports car.

The 348 was luxuriously equipped with air-conditioning and a multitude of power features, making it a much more civilized overall package than its predecessor. It was a watershed design for Ferrari who, for the first time, incorporated innovations learned from Formula One Grand Prix development programs into the basic attributes and configuration of production road cars.

The 348’s 3.4 liter V8 generated 300 hp and sat amidship. The reality is that the 348 got trounced by the Lotus Espirit and Acura NSX in comparison tests. People complained that it looked bad, its seating position was horrible and the handling was atrocious. We say, it still looks and sounds like a Ferrari and can be bought for about $40,000. This is a great entry level Ferrari for somebody looking to get into prancing horse ownership.

See: Ferrari 348 in depth

8. Ferrari 456

Model Years: 1992–1997 (456), 1998–2003 (456M) / Units Produced: 3,289 / Engine: 5.5 L V12 / Horsepower: 436 hp  / Price Guide: $60,000 – $75,000

The Pininfarina-designed Ferrari 456 GT debuted in Europe in 1993 and was first available in the U.S. in 1995, and can be viewed as a replacement for the 365 GT 2+2 / 400 / 412 series. This front-engined 2+2 grand tourer had a 436 hp, 5.5-liter V-12 mated to a six-speed gearbox that propelled it from 0-60 in just over 5 seconds on its way to a top speed of 186 mph.

All of this performance could be managed from a cockpit that provided Connolly leather appointments for four (two of whom would almost certainly need to be children) and every other comfort expected of a $245,000 automobile, including a cockpit-adjustable suspension. Shortly after Ferrari introduced the 456 GT, the 456 GTA became available, the “A” signifying a four-speed automatic gearbox.

In 1998, Ferrari introduced an updated version, the 456M GT and GTA. This “Modificata” had a revised interior, some bodywork changes around the nose and hood, and a slight increase in horsepower to 442. The 456M GT remained in production until 2003, and in all just under 3,300 456 GTs and 456 GTMs were built until giving way to the 612 Scaglietti in 2004.

See: Ferrari 456 in depth

Greatest Convertible & Open Top Ferraris Ever Made

The 25 Best Convertible & Open Top Ferraris

Today we are ranking the best open top and convertible Ferraris ever made by our friends at Maranello. The Ferrari lists we create are almost always controversial because any best of Ferrari models discussion is hard to have given the brands long history. Should a 488 Spider outrank a 355 Spider? Sure, it is much faster and more advanced, but is it truly better? How do you rank cars that we are never going to ever drive like the 250 GT SWB California Spyder? Lots of tough choices make these lists a fiery affair.

Before we get into the list, we want to talk about a few myths that annoy us. First myth is that Ferrari convertibles are not real Ferraris. Nonsense. I recently drove a Ferrari California and while it is no 488 dynamically it was the perfect daily driver. The California I drove was a friend’s car. He had traded in his 458 for a California because he never drove the 458. The California is more practical, has more space, more comfort and is gets used all the time. Like my friend, if I had to choose between a Ferrari I get to drive every single day and one that stays locked in my garage most of the time, I’ll take the former every time.

The second myth about Ferrari convertibles is that they are compromised performance cars. Nonsense yet again. Sure, back in the day open top cars were dynamically flawed but in the last decade we can’t think of a single open top Ferrari that hasn’t been anything but astonishing to drive. Technology, materials science and chassis design have all progressed to the point where a convertible Ferrari can match its coupe sibling pound for pound in the performance and fun stakes with none of the downsides.

Myths out of the way it is time to talk about our methodology for creating this list. Frankly, it was pretty simple. We went through every Ferrari model ever made, picked out the convertible and open top models and then ranked them. We then categorized them and only included the ones we believed deserved a spot on our list. Some on the list are old cars that helped define the brand while others are legitimate top of their game performance machines. We also included a few convertible Ferraris you can walk into a dealer and buy new, some bargain convertibles and some priceless Ferraris you can only hope to buy if you’re a billionaire.

Here are the best Ferrari convertibles and open top models our friends at Maranello have ever made:


New Ferrari Convertibles You Can Buy Today

Whenever we put these lists together we almost immediately get questions from readers looking to buy new cars wanting to know what they can waltz into the showroom to buy. If you are looking for a new Ferrari that is also a convertible there are only two options at the moment.

Ferrari 488 Spider

Ferrari 488 Spider

Ferrari 488 Spider

See: All Ferrari 488 Articles / 488 Spider In-Depth /

Priced from $280,900

This is the one car on this list you could drive every day and thrash on weekends and even take it to the track and its awesome at all three. It basically destroys every other car on this list in terms of outright performance (LaFerrari being the exception) thanks to its 3.9-liter twin-turbocharged V8 that churns 661 bhp and 560 lb ft of torque and just won engine of the year (again).

The 488 Spider is all the car you would ever need and it is better than its sibling 488 GTB coupe. Just as good as the coupe in terms of performance, speed, styling with all the benefits of open top fun. The 488 Spider is amazingly efficient, fast and enjoyable and there is a strong case to be made that the Ferrari 488 Spider is the single greatest modern automobile for sale today.

What about performance? Well the stunning drop-top version of the 488 GTB can sprint to 60 mph in about 3-second and hit a 205 mph top speed. Ferrari has produced another masterpiece with the 488 Spider.

Ferrari Portofino

Ferrari Portofino

Ferrari Portofino

See: All Ferrari Portofino Articles / Portofino In-Depth

Priced from $214,533

The new Ferrari Portofino is the de facto successor of the best-selling Ferrari in history – the Ferrari California T. Following in the steps of its predecessor, the Portofino is a grand touring, 2+2, convertible with its engine located in the front.

This entry level car has a cool retractable hardtop roof and a 591-hp twin-turbo 3.9-liter V-8. Add an electronic limited-slip differential, adaptive suspension and creature comforts like a 10.2-inch infotainment display and rear seats and you quickly realize that this is the kind of car you could use every day.

It is fairly obvious that Ferrari designed the Portofino to have more mass-market-appeal than the rest of its predominantly mid-engined, race-car-inspired-line-up. Ferrari wanted the car to be more relatable – attracting first-time buyers to the Ferrari brand with its (relatively) low price point, everyday driveability, comfort, and versatility. Purists would scoff at the notion of such a thing existing – so perhaps the real question should be “is it more entry-level or is it more Ferrari”?

We already know that if you want a faster and more performance oriented Ferrari, you wouldn’t be shopping for a Ferrari Portofino (try the 488 Spider above for that). However, the Portofino for what it is – is unquestionably a great improvement over its predecessor. Afterall, it has more power and less weight, while being more enjoyable to drive and arguably, better looking than the California T that it is replacing.

Auto journalists such as Car Magazine and Car and Driver note that the Portofino is very engaging to drive spiritedly, sans the desire to go around breaking any lap records. Ultimately, the Ferrari Portofino is the amalgamation of what it was designed to be – a Ferrari which offers a unique blend of daily driving practicality, performance, and luxury.


Open Top Ferraris for (Billionaire) Collectors

If you are reading this section and seriously considering buying any of the open top Ferraris on this list then congratulations on having more money than God. For the rest of us this is the section where we dream about what it would be like to buy the rarest, most expensive open top Ferrari’s ever.

Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa

Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa

Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa

See All Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa Articles / 250 Testa Rossa In Detail

On our list of the most expensive Ferraris ever there was a 1958 250 Testa Rossa that sold for $16.4 million and a 1957 example that went for $12.4 million. Clearly this is a rare, expensive and coveted Ferrari and tops our rate open top Ferraris list.

Only around 34 Testa Rossas were made and all were intended for racing. The 250 Testa Rossa was designed to offer customers already racing with the 500 TRC a much more powerful engine on a similar chassis to help retain the former model’s great handling. The FIA placed a three-liter limit on prototypes and as a result the reliable V12 from the 250 Gran Turismo was used (albeit with a radically tuned with six twin-choke carburetors). The engine’s top was painted red, hence the name testa rossa.

1967 Ferrari 275 GTS4 NART Spyder

1967 Ferrari 275 GTS4 NART Spyder

Ferrari 275 GTB/4 N.A.R.T. Spyder

See All N.A.R.T. Spyder Articles / N.A.R.T. Spyder In Depth

With only ten of this these NART Spiders were ever made (built to commemorate Ferrari’s North American Racing Team), it’s easy to say that the 1967 Ferrari 275 GTB/4 N.A.R.T. Spider is one of the rarest and most valuable Ferraris ever made. The ten Ferrari 275s officially from the Ferrari factory in spyder configuration were all made for Luigi Chinetti who was Ferrari’s North American Importer at the time.

Chinetti recognized the need for an alternative to the luxurious 330 GTS and reluctantly convinced Ferrari to deliver his own ‘NART Spyder’.

Chinetti first got the idea for the car at the Paris Motor Show when the 275 GTB/4 was shown. Ferrari at first denied his request to built a factory spider, but after talking to Sergio Scaglietti who manufactured the 275 bodies, Ferrari was finally convinced. Initially, Chinetti ordered 25 cars which were executed by the experienced craftsman at Sergio Scaglietti’s workshops. Although the chassis of the 275 relied on the body for rigidity no additional bracing was introduced with the NART Spyder. The 275 GTB/4 N.A.R.T. Spiders were equipped with a 3.3 L 4-cam V12 engine that produced 296 hp and 294 Nm / 217 lb-ft of torque. They reached speeds of 162 mph and could hit 60 mph in 5.6 seconds.

In the end, Ferrari only shipped 10 Spyders to Chinetti and they were all sold through his eastern USA dealership. The first of these cars came with aluminum body and was immediately put into race duty to promote the model. After the race, Chinetti had a hard time selling the cars and had to sell the final few at a marked discount. Recently, a NART Spider sold for a staggering $27.5 million at a California auction and was owned by a single family for over 45 years.

Ferrari 250 GT California Spyder SWB

Ferrari 250 GT California Spyder SWB

Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spyder

See 250 GT SWB California Spyder Articles / 250 GT SWB California Spyder In Detail

In 1959, Ferrari debuted the shorter California Spyder on their stiffer short wheel base (SWB) chassis. These cars were superior as they had disc brakes, a more powerful engine, and a less bulk. Like the LWB model that preceded it, the SWB benefited from a competition-bred chassis and engine. The California Spyder was motivated by U.S. distributors Jon von Neumann and Luigi Chinetti who convinced Ferrari to create a performance convertible named after their best market. The California Spyder emerged with supercar performance and became highly desirable due to its limited availability.

Immortalized as the Ferris Bueller car, the California Spyder—of which only about 55 were made – each car was special too, and some examples came with competition-spec engines or the very rare factory hard top.

Sharing its drivetrain with the legendary 250 GT that won the Tour de France, the California Spyder was a car to get excited about. It had the same 140 mph performance and the same competition chassis as the Ferraris lapping the race tracks. Therefore, it only made sense to equip some examples with competition engines and aluminum bodywork to race at Le Mans and Sebring. These Spyder Competiziones did well in the GT class and tied all California Spyders to a sporting pedigree.

California Spyder bodies were hand crafted by Carozerria Scaglietti who built most of Ferrari’s competition bodies at the time. Inside, each Spyder car had a no-frills interior and a small heater was the only luxury. Behind the seats, a fabric top was installed which was tidy, and well proportioned when upright, but was made with no inner liner. These cars are prized by collectors as proved by recent record auction prices. Try $18.5 million on for size for a super rare 1961 Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spider and $17.5 million for another a few months earlier. Combine vintage, rarity, and prestige and it clear that this is the convertible Ferrari for the billionaire.

Ferrari Testarossa Spider

Ferrari Testarossa Spider

Ferrari Testarossa Spider

The Testarossa Spider, serial number 62897, is the sole official convertible variant of the Testarossa commissioned in 1986 by the then Fiat chairman Gianni Agnelli to commemorate his 20 years of chairmanship of the company.

Ferrari wasn’t building a Spider version of its flagship Testarossa supercar since convertibles weren’t very popular at the time – so Agnelli had one commissioned just for him. The former Fiat boss received delivery of his unique Testarossa Spider in 1986, which featured a silver exterior with blue stripes and a matching dark blue interior. In case you’re wondering why Agnelli didn’t opt for a red Ferrari, “AG” is the periodic table’s symbol for silver which also happens to be the first two letters of his last name. Even the prancing horse was finished in the same silver. Rather than simply remove the roof and leave the car unchanged, Ferrari strengthened the floor and fitted an electrically operated hoop to support the soft-top.

Ferrari 365 GTS by Pininfarina

Ferrari 365 GTS by Pininfarina

Ferrari 365 GTS by Pininfarina

At the Geneva Motor Show in March 1966, Ferrari launched a new two-seat GT. The 330 GTC, and its open-bodied GTS sibling, were tremendously popular with more restrained sporting customers, offering elegant aesthetics and classic Ferrari performance. The 365 GTS “spider” replaced the 330 GTS model in late 1968. Visually it was virtually identical to its predecessor, apart from the omission of the exhaust air outlets on the front wing sides, which were replaced by a trapezoidal black plastic louvre panel close to each trailing corner of the bonnet.

The folding roof of the 365 GTS was retained by a pair of over-centre clips on the top screen rail when in the erected position, whilst a clip-on protective vinyl cover fitted over it when stowed in a recess behind the seats, otherwise it was identical to the sister 365 GTC model.

The engine was an enlarged version of that fitted to the 330 GTS, and identical to that used in the 365 GT 2+2 models already in production when the 365 GTS was announced. It was a single overhead camshaft per bank V12 unit, with factory type reference 245/C, of 4390cc capacity, with a bore and stroke of 81mm x 71mm. It was fitted with a bank of either three twin-choke Weber 40 DFI/5 or 40 DFI/7 carburettors, with a twin coil and rear-of-engine mounted twin distributor ignition system, to produce a claimed 320hp.

The first production 365 GTS completed, of just 20 examples produced was sold in Monterey in 2017 for $2.7 million.

Ferrari 400 Superamerica Cabriolet

Ferrari 400 Superamerica Cabriolet

Ferrari 400 Superamerica Cabriolet

When it arrived in 1962, the Superamerica Cabriolet was the most expensive car ever produced by Ferrari. Forget depreciation dreams because today they’re even more expensive. Try RM Auctions selling a pristine example for over $7.6 million. Definitely on the more expensive Ferrari convertible list then.

Before Ferrari supercars were top of the heap, Ferrari made GTs that ruled the top of the car market. Despite the classical good looks, cars like the Superamerica Cabriolet were known more for their powerful V12 engines and serious performance.

The 400 Superamerica had a 340 bhp, 3,967 cc 60-degree V-12 engine with three Weber 46 DCF carburetors, four-speed manual transmission, independent front suspension with double wishbones and coil springs, rear suspension with a live rear axle, semi-elliptic leaf springs, telescopic shock absorbers, and four-wheel disc brakes.

In the late 1950s and early 1960s, the Ferrari Superamerica was the last word in sporting elegance. It offered the very best in terms of luxury and performance and was the very best car money could buy. These cars often found their way into the garages of the world’s elite, with numerous heads of state, barons of industry, and other well-to-do individuals being the privileged first owners of Superamericas, putting them in the upper echelon of automobile enthusiasts.

Ferrari F60 America

Ferrari F60 America

Ferrari F60 America

See All Ferrari F60 America Articles / Ferrari F60 America In Depth

So we have seen some of the older, classic Ferrari open top cars and their multi-million dollar price points. But what if you have a few million to spend and want something a little more modern and equally as rare as the older models. As luck would have it, Ferrari built 10 units of the F60 America and this may be the one for you.  The F60 America is a dramatically revised version of the F12berlinetta with a new nose, wings, doors, a bespoke interior and a convertible top. And each will cost about $2.5 million new and probably a lot more in the used car market. With a 6.3-liter V12 and 730 hp all driven through the the rear wheels, it rockets to 60 mph in less than 3 seconds.

The F60 name was for Ferrari’s 60th-anniversary festivities scheduled to celebrate the maker’s diamond anniversary in the U.S.

The F60America’s bodywork adopts the classic North American Racing Team livery, and the special Ferrari 60th anniversary Prancing Horse badge on the wheel arches also appears on the tunnel in the cabin. That blue with a center white stripe livery of famed importer Luigi Chinetti’s NART outfit and the interior that gives a nod to old racing Ferrari with the driver’s side finished with red trim and upholstery while the passenger’s accommodations are black adds to the uniqueness of this special limited model.

1966 Ferrari 330 GTS Gallery

1966 Ferrari 330 GTS Gallery

Ferrari 330 GTS

See All Ferrari 330 GTS Articles / Ferrari 330 GTS In Depth

The 330 GTS was released in October at the 1966 Paris Auto Show. It was intended as an grand tourer that delivered quiet performance. The 3967 CC V-12 was a development of the engine used in the 400 Superamerica, and joined to the five-speed gearbox, provided flexible power across a wider range. The 330 GTS also introduced an improved mounting for the engine and rear transaxle, joining them with a torque tube to minimize vibration. Only 100 examples were made before the model was upgraded with a 4.4 liter engine in 1968.

The folding roof of the 330 GTS was retained by a pair of over-centre clips on the top screen rail when in the erected position, whilst a clip-on protective vinyl cover fitted over it when stowed in a recess behind the seats. Production of the 330 GTS model continued into late 1968, when it was upgraded with a 4.4-litre engine and minor cosmetic changes, to become the 365 GTS model.

1967 Ferrari 365 Spyder California Gallery

1967 Ferrari 365 Spyder California Gallery

Ferrari 365 Spyder California

See All Ferrari 365 California Articles / Ferrari 365 California In Depth

Shortly after the last 500 Superfast was made, the 365 California was announced as the model’s successor. It was the continuation of a series of limited production cars which included the 410 and 400 Superamercas. These cars were marketed to attract premium customers who demanded a more unique coachwork on their grand touring machines. To keep costs down, but exclusivity high, the 365 California was only offered to select VIP clients of Ferrari. That may explain why the rare 365 California models around today fetch big money.

To much success, the California title had been already been associated with the earlier 250 GT Series. Around one hundred 250 California Spyders were built with some light alloy competizione examples actually racing Le Mans and Sebring. Drawing on this rich heritage, Ferrari decided that new 365 Spyder would be marketed as the next California model.

Much like the 250, this 365 used a well developed chassis to provide a basis for the next California Spyder. Released alongside the 330 GTC at the 1966 Geneva Auto Salon, the long and low 365 California Spyder was basically a reworked 330 GT chassis featuring a striking Pininfarina body. As far as engineering was concerned the 365 California Spyder was uninventive, having a wishbone front suspension and live rear axle held by leaf springs.

Powering the 365 was a Columbo long block V12. This engine was common in the 365 range, being an enlarged version of the unit found in the 330 GT. Other evolutions of this engine powered the 365 GTB/4 Daytona, GTC/4 and standard 365 GT coupe.

2010 Ferrari 599 SA APERTA Gallery

2010 Ferrari 599 SA APERTA Gallery

Ferrari SA Aperta

See All Ferrari SA Aperta Articles / Ferrari SA Aperta In Depth

The SA Aperta is a special series model of which just 80 units were built. Ferrari chose to build 80 SA Apertas in celebration of Pininfarina’s 80th anniversary. The SA nomenclature also pays homage to both Sergio and Andrea Pininfarina whose company and work have been linked to the most successful road-going cars ever built at Maranello.

The SA APERTA is a true roadster which combines Ferraris signature front-engined V12 architecture in a completely open-top setting. In fact, it has just a light soft top designed to be resorted to only if the weather gets particularly bad. A low-slung windscreen and the fact that it crouches lower to the ground than our other models lend the SA APERTA an exceptionally aerodynamic sleekness. Its profile arches back from the A-post to two aerodynamic fins beautifully integrating the two roll-bars which themselves cleverly mimic the outline of the seats.

The chassis has been redesigned to deliver a standard of stiffness comparable to that of a closed berlinetta and there is a negligible weight difference also, thanks to work done on the chassis structure.

Thanks to the 670 CV engine beneath its bonnet, the SA APERTA beautifully embodies the sporty spirit of the 599, incorporating Ferrari’s most advanced technology to deliver absolutely benchmark performance and superb driving pleasure. Its interior too is stylishly sporty with particularly sophisticated materials, trim and colors used throughout. The virtually endless combinations available guarantee that each and every SA APERTA is absolutely unique.


High Performance Open Top Ferraris

This is the “have your cake and eat it too” group. We highlight Ferrari’s open top performance kings. These are the models that are serious sports cars at the top of the performance heap, that just happen to be convertibles too. They are uncompromising and give up nothing to their coupe siblings.

LaFerrari Aperta

LaFerrari Aperta

Ferrari LaFerrari Aperta

See: All Ferrari LaFerrari Articles

The official car of Ferrari’s 70th year was the LaFerrari Aperta, an open-top hypercar that Car Magazine said had a single purpose: “to remind the world that nobody does automotive hedonism better than Enzo’s squad”. Well said. There isn’t much written about the LaFerrari Aperta, but once again the folks at Car said it best: The LaFerrari is an astonishing embodiment of that philosophy. A machine of bewildering complexity, its defining brilliance is a driving experience of startling purity, one made magical by the unholy power and deviously clever electronics that could so easily have corrupted it.

The LaFerrari Aperta is basically the drop-top version of the LaFerrari supercar. The Aperta is limited to only 209 units and they were spoken for well before the car was even announced. It is the first time Ferrari has ever offered both coupe and convertible versions of its “supercar” line. On the outside, the Aperta looks a lot like the original car, save for the fact that, well, the roof comes off. It’s not a power-operated top, like in some rivals, but rather two carbon-fiber panels that have to be removed by hand. It’s not the most graceful solution, but it helps save weight — and reduce complexity.

Under the skin, you’ll find a carbon-fiber chassis, a dual-clutch automatic transmission and a 6.3-liter V12 with a hybrid component that combine for a total of 950 horsepower and 664 lb-ft of torque. The result is zero to 60 in under 3 seconds and a top speed of nearly 220 miles per hour — amazing numbers, even in today’s world of crazy exotic cars.

Of course, the Aperta is expensive — and, more importantly, it’s all sold out. The Aperta is reported to cost around $2 million, although one sold at a charity auction for $10 million.

Ferrari F50

See All Ferrari F50 Articles / Ferrari F50 In Depth

Available with removable hard top, the open roof F50 supercar is one of the best drivers Ferraris ever despite a lukewarm reception at launch. The best thing about not having a roof on the F50 is the unfiltered sound of an Ferrari V12 right behind your ears.

You don’t see many F50s out and about because they’re really rare. Only 349 were ever made (four times as rare as the F40 and even rarer than the Enzo).

Both the 288 GTO and Ferrari F40 feature turbocharged V8s. The F50 is unlike these cars as it uses a engine motivated by the 1994 Ferrari 412T Formula One car. It features a narrow angle V12 which is similar to the one in the 1994 412T. The F50’s version has an increased capacity of 4.7 liters to offer increased torque and driveability. Power came in at 513.1 bhp @ 8500 rpm.

Many people have looked upon the F50 project as somewhat of a failure. I can see where they are coming from; the F50 didn’t receive a race program and never set any precedents in performance. It is this attitude that is usually held by people how have yet to experience the F50 in person, on track or, better yet, behind the wheel. While in static performance figures the F50 even loses to its younger F40 brother, it is the dynamic driving, and especially handling where the F50 Ferrari excels.

Ferrari F430 Spider 16M

See All Ferrari F430 Spider 16M Articles / F430 Spider 16M

To celebrate the 16th F1 championship Ferrari built the 430 Scuderia Spider 16M. Using the awesome F430 Scuderia coupe as its base this car was an absolute beast. It was a droptop Ferrari with all the go-fast parts of the 430 Scuderia, including a higher-compression version of the 4.3-liter V-8 making 503 hp and 347 lb-ft of torque (80 percent of which is available at 3000 rpm), a race-tuned suspension, serving-dish-sized carbon-ceramic brakes, and the F1-Superfast2 automated manual transmission that enacts a one-two shift in 60 milliseconds.

Just as in the 430 Scuderia, the interior is stripped of all comfort features. Carbon fiber and aluminum line the cabin. There is no carpet, just diamond-plate-style aluminum on the floor, accented by exposed welds. The carbon-framed seats are covered in weight-saving cloth and offer only manual fore-and-aft and seatback-angle adjustments. The doors are skinned with carbon fiber as well. The only concession to luxury lives in the dash: a horizontally docked iPod touch, the sound from which is delivered to occupants via six speakers (yup, there’s a sound system on a track-ready Ferrari).

With only 499 examples made it is a highly sought after car that goes for much more than its circa $300,000 price when new.

2014 Ferrari 458 Speciale A

2014 Ferrari 458 Speciale A

Ferrari 458 Speciale A

See All Ferrari 458 Articles / 458 Speciale A In Depth

If I had to pick one car over all others it would probably be the 458 Speciale. If I had to pick my favorite 458 Speciale it would probably be the Aperta (‘open’ in Italian). Naturally-aspirated, V8, mid-engined, 597hp at a stratospheric RPM and performance to blow your mind. It would take an F1 driver to tell the difference dynamically between the coupe and open top 458 Speciale so if it were my money it would be an easy decision.

With on 499 units made, the 458 Speciale A was the most powerful spider in Ferrari’s history (now surpassed of course). It combines effortlessly performance with the sublime pleasure of drop-top driving. Its aluminium retractable hardtop takes only 14 seconds to deploy or retract.

0-60 mph in under 3.0 seconds and a Fiorano lap time of 1’23”5 proves that this is no soft top with no guts, this is one of the most extreme performance machines on the planet. Add that seductively exhilarating signature Ferrari soundtrack and it is clear why this makes our list of best Ferrari convertibles.


Convertible Ferrari Bargains

If you are like us and can’t afford a new 488 Spider or Portofino and the hypercar convertibles or classic drop top Ferraris cost more than your house, then this is the list for you. These are the bargain Ferrari convertibles, the ones that can be had for reasonable money.

1986 Ferrari 328 GTS Gallery

1986 Ferrari 328 GTS Gallery

Ferrari 328 GTS

See: Ferrari 328 GTS In-Depth

Summer 2018 Price from $80,000

In the mid-80s, the elegant shape of the open-topped 308 GTS was further softened and rounded to become – once a 270bhp 3.2-liter engine had been fitted amidships – the 328 GTS.

The curvier body not only updated the looks, it also improved the aerodynamics. Inside the new drop-top, the now outdated 1970s seats and trim and switchgear were also thoroughly refreshed.

Launched at the Frankfurt Motor Show of 1985, the 328 GTS was an instant hit and – during the four years of its production – more than 6,000 cars were sold: around five times as many as its hard-topped brother, the 328 GTB.

1981 Ferrari 308 GTSI

1981 Ferrari 308 GTSI

Ferrari 308 GTS

While we prefer the 328, the Ferrari 308 GTS – is the targa-topped version of Ferrari’s first mid-engined, V8 road car and it is also a bargain. The targa roof added a dash of extra good-weather glamour to the 308, just as it did with the earlier Dino.

The Worst Ferrari Cars Ever Made - 2009 Ferrari California

The Worst Ferrari Cars Ever Made - 2009 Ferrari California

Ferrari California

See: Ferrari California In-Depth

Summer 2018 Price from $100,000 USD

Yes, this is a real Ferrari and yes it is a relative bargain these days. For under $100k gets you a Ferrari V8 you can drive every day. While it is often panned as not a real Ferrari, we can assure you having driven the California it is a great Ferrari. Sure, it isn’t a canyon carver like a 458 but it is the perfect daily driver and is easily the most practical Ferrari you can buy.

The California was first Ferrari road car to have a front-mounted V8 engine, the first to have a dual-clutch gearbox and came with an automated, fully retractable metal roof. It’s a softer, more approachable Ferrari which is why which 70 percent of California buyers so were new to the brand. If you want a Ferrari that is quick with a blend of everyday usability and outright enjoyment, then this might be the Ferrari V8 bargain for you.

While the California was made all the way through 2017 we suggest you focus on the earlier 2008 to 2012 models if you’re looking for a true bargain.

2009 Vaughn Gittin Jr. Mustang RTR-C

2009 Vaughn Gittin Jr. Mustang RTR-C

Ferrari 355 Spider

See: Ferrari 355 In-Depth

Summer 2018 Price from $70,000 USD

We love the F355 Spider and its on our shortlist of cars we’d buy tomorrow. In the U.S they’re going for $70k+ which is a bargain for this quality of car. The F355 Spider had a convertible top – fabric, and electronically powered for the first time and carried over the Berlinetta’s flying-buttress design. The convertible looks just as good as the coupe version.

The F355 was introduced in 1994 for the 1995 model year. The F355 righted all the wrongs of the preceding 348 starting with that fabulous V8. When the F355 went on sale, it had the highest specific output of any car on sale, squeezing 375 bhp from a 3.5-liter V8.

When it came to the F355, design was everything. It is easily one of the most beautiful modern cars ever designed. Where the Testerossa and 348 have aged poorly, the F355 is beautiful and looks amazing today.

The F355 also sounds amazing. When you step on the gas pedal in an F355 it just revs and revs and revs. The sound develops a hard edge and screams in true Ferrari tradition. Unlike modern Ferraris though, you won’t be doing immediate jail time speeds because while the F355 is fast it isn’t too fast. 0-62mph is covered in 4.7 second and a top speed of 183 mph was possible, so nothing crazy for 2018. EVO magazine nailed when they said: “‘Perhaps for the first time, Ferrari has managed to successfully combine age-old passion and heart-pounding emotion with state-of-the-art engineering and electronics.”

This is everything a Ferrari is supposed to be.


Our Other Favorite Convertible Ferraris

There is still more to go. The rest of the Ferraris on this list didn’t neatly fit into any of the groupings above. These are awesome Ferrari open top models that we absolutely love and we believe deserved a spot on our list. Simple.

2001 Ferrari 360 Spider Gallery

2001 Ferrari 360 Spider Gallery

Ferrari 360 Spider

See All Ferrari 360 Modena Spider Articles / Ferrari 360 Modena Spider In-Depth

You can buy a 360 Modena for under US$100,000 these days and that feels like great value for a what was a giant leap over the F355. While the 360 hasn’t aged as well as the F355 in terms of design, the car was a technical masterpiece and drives much better than it looks.

The 360 Modena was a replacement for the F355. The mid-engine Ferrari 360 Modena had a 400 hp 3.6-liter V8 and transmission offered in both F1 paddle shift and six-speed manual. The Ferrari 360 Modena hit 60 mph in 4.4 seconds so it’s hot hatch territory fast these days, but it feels faster in person and has an exhaust note that will go down in history books as one of the best sounding cars ever. You could drive the F360 everyday, it is comfortable and relatively reliable while still being fun.

The Ferrari 360 used aluminium extensively which made it 130 pounds lighter than the F355 and increased rigidity by 64%. You can tell the difference when driving too, the 360 is easier to drive, more composed and more fun than the F355. If you want serious performance we’d recommend you opt for the F430 which is still a decent daily driver but significantly more hardcore performance machine.

2005 Ferrari F430 Spider

2005 Ferrari F430 Spider

Ferrari F430 Spider

See All Ferrari F430 Articles / Ferrari F430 In-Depth

While the Scuderia is still not “bargain” money, the Spider and Coupe F430 versions are starting at just under $90,000 (that’s 991 Porsche money). Sure that isn’t cheap per se but remember we’re talking a proper Ferrari that is awesome and still modern enough that it doesn’t seem classic (Top Gear called it the best car in the world when they first reviewed it).

We recently drove a friends manual F430 and it is faster and more engaging than you can imagine. In this day and age of McLaren 720S absurdity, a F430 is probably the pinnacle in our minds of everyday driveability and sports car fun on the road before things really get out of hand. The F430 has a 4.3 liter naturally aspirated V8 and makes 490 horsepower at 8,500 rpm redline. It weighs 3,200 pounds and reaches 0-60 in 3.8 seconds.

Every review of the car glowed with praise. Handling was supposedly fantastic. This was the first car that started the now-cliche trope that the electronics actually helped the driving experience rather than detracted from it. Our pick is a manual car and we’d opt for the coupe over the spider personally. Behind the wheel of the F430 is a blast. It is teaming with feel, is flat in corners and is enjoyable on the street, mountain pass or the track. It is really comfortable and surprisingly easy to maneuver. The perfect Ferrari available used today? We think so.

Dino 246 GTS

Dino 246 GTS

Dino 246 GTS

See All Ferrari Dino 206/246 Articles / 246 GTS In Depth

At the 1972 Geneva Motor Show, Ferrari released an open-top version of the Dino 246 called the GTS. Over 1200 examples were produced over a two year period. The 246 GTS had a removable roof panel similar to the 1967 Porsche 911 Targa. Both these cars copied the idea from the Surrey-Top Triumph TR4 which was the first to use such a panel.

The Dino line was created in honor of Enzo Ferrari’s son Alfredo Ferrari who was championing the V6 engine before his untimely death. The series began with a number of 206 sport prototypes and eventually the 246 road cars.

One of the ultimate specification Dinos was altered to accept 7½-inch wide Campagnolo wheels. These Chairs and Flares cars featured Group 4-inspired wheel arches and seats from the 365 GTB/4 Daytona.

2000 Ferrari 550 Barchetta Pininfarina

2000 Ferrari 550 Barchetta Pininfarina

Ferrari 550 Barchetta Pininfarina

See All Ferrari 550 Barchetta Articles / 550 Barchetta In Depth

After a lapse of nearly 25 years, Ferrari returned to building powerful, luxurious, front-engined, V12-powered, two-seat grand touring cars with the 550. This limited-edition retro-styled roadster version was meant to evoke many of the iconic convertibles featured in this list especially the N.A.R.T. Spyder above.

Unveiled at the Paris show in 2000, the 550 Barchetta Pininfarina was so named to commemorate the 70th anniversary of ferrari’s coachbuilder and stylist. a strictly limited edition of just 448 numbered cars was built, with the last leaving the factory in december 2001. The 550 barchetta pininfarina was specifically designed to be reminiscent of legendary Ferrari road race stars of the likes of the 166 MM, the 250 GT California and the 365 GTS4 Daytona.

The aim, in fact, was to create an open-top front-engined 12-cylinder with a retro feel to it. The 550 Barchetta Pininfarina was designed and developed to be a unique interpretation of Ferrari’s purest and most extreme sports cars. In fact, it was a deliberate and provocative departure from the rest of the current range. As such, it was made available only as a limited edition. Each car was numbered and its number displayed on a special in-car plaque signed by Sergio Pininfarina.

Ferrari 575M Superamerica

Ferrari 575M Superamerica

Ferrari Superamerica

See All Ferrari 575M Superamerica Articles / Ferrari 575M Superamerica In Depth

The roof on the Superamerica was made of electrochromic glass, which could adjust its tint from crystal clear to total blackout at the touch of a button. It could also flip back at the touch of another. Ferrari called it “Revocromico.” We call it stunning.

Introduced in 2005, the Ferrari Superamerica was a convertible version of the 575M Maranello; it featured an electrochromic glass panel roof which rotated 180° (both are production car firsts) at the rear to lie flat over the boot. Patented Revocromico roof incorporates carbon fibre structure that is hinged on the single axis with a luggage compartment lid, allowing the access to the latter even with an open roof. With the roof open the rear window, apart for holding the third stop light, also acts as a wind deflector. This roof design was previously used on 2001-designed Vola by Leonardo Fioravanti. The Superamerica used the higher-output tune of the V-12 engine, F133 G, rated at 533 hp (397 kW; 540 PS) and Ferrari marketed it as the world’s fastest convertible, with a top speed of 199 mph (320 km/h). The GTC handling package was optional.

A total of 559 Superamericas were built; this number followed Enzo Ferrari’s philosophy that there should always be one fewer car available than what the market demanded; only 43 of those had a manual gearbox.

The All Time Greatest V8 Ferraris Ever

The full list of Ferrari models is filled with amazing cars. Picking the best ones in any roundup is HARD.

Recently the new Enzo magazine ran a poll that garnered over 4,000 votes to decide the five most popular V8 Ferraris ever. Ferrari fans named the all-time top 5 greatest V8 Ferraris and the winner was the 458 Italia, winning over 40% of the vote. It was the last naturally aspirated Ferrari V8 ever produced before the turbocharging era of the 488 started.

In second place was the F355 with its longitudinal 3.5-liter V8 that really helped a new generation of Ferrari fans fall for the marque (thank that crazy RPM and flat plank scream). Next up is 488 GTB whose engine has won multiple engine of the year awards followed by the lovely F430 in fourth place.

A good exercise for sure, but we needed to go a little deeper. While Ferrari armchair fans know their stuff, we know nuances matter. Are we talking the F458 or are we talking 459 Speciale? 360 Challenge Stradale didn’t make the list, that seems odd.

So we decided to expand the list and gone a little deeper. We also wanted to explain why we think certain V8s were better than others and to help buyers decide on the best bang for your buck V8 Ferraris because what good is a list like this unless you can run out a scoop up a Ferrari bargain. Finally, we wanted to pay tribute the engines themselves, to dig into the designations.

Our 8 Favorite V8 Ferraris

Ferrari 458 Speciale

Ferrari 458 Speciale

1. Ferrari 458 Speciale

See: All 458 Articles / The Ferrari 458 In-Depth

Let’s start by saying that this is absolutely our favorite car ever so it was always going to make the top spot. Sure the “entry level” 458 was epic, but the Speciale amped everything up to 11, building arguably the best naturally aspirated sports car in history.

The 458 Speciale was the last naturally-aspirated V8 Ferrari and the engine was at its peak in terms of evolution. Mid-engined 4.5-litre V8 with flat-plane-crank, sky high 9,000 RPM redline, insane 597 bhp and 398 lb-ft of torque, the Speciale was one special Ferrari.

Performance was astonishing for a naturally aspirated car. The 0-62 mph sprint was over in 3.4 seconds and top speed was over 200 mph. More importantly, the Speciale does everything well. It took the already amazing 458 and somehow made it better, faster and more fun to drive.

The best V8 Ferrari ever? You bet, it’s not even close.

Ferrari f40

Ferrari f40

2. Ferrari F40

See: All Ferrari F40 Articles / F40 History, Specs & More

How the Ferrari F40 wasn’t included in that poll by Enzo Magazine is beyond us. Considered by many pundits the best supercar ever made it gets second place on our list of best V8 Ferraris.

The last Ferrari signed off by Enzo himself the F40 came at a time when the Porsche 959 had captivated car fans with its advanced technology and astonishing performance. To celebrate Ferrari’s 40th anniversary, it was decided that the company would produce a mid-engine, rear wheel drive, two-door coupe sports car and it would be the fastest, most powerful car the company had ever built, enough to eclipse the Porsche. This car, appropriately enough, would be called the Ferrari F40.

The Ferrari F40 was built from 1987 to 1992 and was intended as the successor to the Ferrari 288 GTO, which itself had been one of the fastest production Ferrari models ever built (up to that point in time.)

At its core, the car was powered by an enlarged, mid-mounted 2.9L (2936 cc) version of the GTO’s IHI twin-turbocharged V8 engine. In alignment with the development work performed on the “Evoluzione” variant of the 288 GTO, the F40’s future engine received a small increase in capacity, a slightly higher compression ratio of 7.7:1, a rise in boost pressure, and a number of other changes that resulted in a respectable improvement in the engine’s power output and torque. According to Ferrari, the engine was capable of developing 478 brake horsepower at 7,000rpm, a number that most experts agreed was far less than the engine’s true output. (In fact, most experts today claim that the engine’s true output was well over 500 horsepower.)

It made extensive use of composite materials (carbon-fiber tub, Kevlar body panels), and it offered a stripped-down interior (think Le Mans prototype and you’re close). Polarizing at the time, the Ferrari F40 would go on to become one of the most iconic supercars ever made.

Ferrari 360 Challenge Stradale

Ferrari 360 Challenge Stradale

3. Ferrari Challenge Stradale

See: All Challenge Stradale Articles

The Challenge Stradale was much more than a redressed 360 with extra power. Its bare-bones approach and subtle styling changes only hint at the thoroughbred under the skin: this is a road-legal car that is entirely race-ready and at home on track. It offered enthusiasts genuine race car performance and features in an accessible, street-legal package that is built on top of a standard production model doner car.

The main goal for the 360 Challenge Stradale was to take 3 seconds off the 360’s Fiorano lap record. He and his team succeeded.

Starting with the 360 Modena, Ferrari engineers removed all equipment deemed superfluous in order to shed weight, lowered and stiffened the suspension, and fitted massive alloy wheels. Inside, the two passengers were treated to bucket seats with racing harnesses and Plexiglas windows. The huge performance gains can largely be attributed to increase in power and a reduction in weight. Ferrari put the 360 on a titanium and carbon fiber diet which shed 243 lbs (110 kgs) off the car.

Having an all-aluminum monocoque and a flat-plane V8 whipping out 395 bhp, the 360 Modena had raised Ferrari’s standards from the preceding F355 that came before it. The Stradale took things further got the 3.6-liter V8 up to 425-hp. Fine tuning is how the engineers at Ferrari extracted more power. Higher-compression combustion chambers, polished ports, and a larger intake tract all contributed. Attached was a dual-flow exhaust which, by means of a valve bypassed most of the deadening for a blaring symphony of noise. This wail is distinctive of the Stradale and is enough of a reason for it to make our list.

F430 Scuderia

F430 Scuderia

4. Ferrari F430 Scuderia

See: All Ferrari F430 Scuderia Articles / The 430 Scuderia In-Depth

The F430 was the first Ferrari to feature the steering-wheel mounted Manettino switch – a fixture on all Ferraris since – that controlled a myriad of onboard systems, including mapping for the 4.3-litre V8 which developed 483bhp helping the F430 past 200mph.

The extreme version of that already awesome F430 and one of our favorite cars ever was the F430 Scuderia and it comes in at number four on our list of best Ferrari V8s ever. The 430 Scuderia was a truly high-performance 2-seater berlinetta that demonstrated how Ferrari’s Formula 1 know-how is carried across to its production cars. Fitted with a naturally-aspirated 4308cc V8’s and 510 hp at 8500 rpm it is one of the best engines ever.

Where the 458 took performance to another level and things have continue to escalate from then on, the F430 Scuderia feels like the real sweet spot in terms of cars that can actually be enjoyed and really tested on the road. It was the last Ferrari to use the “F1-style” paddle-shift transmission before they switched to dual-clutch so it has a level of engagement that later models are missing.

The key to the Scuderia performance gain over the F430 was the 220 pound weight loss program compared to the standard F430. No carpeting, no glove box, no radio, trim was carbon fiber, floor mats were out in favor of aluminum plating and so on. The result is a 2975-lb. curb weight powered by that magnificent V8.

Ferrari 488 Spider

Ferrari 488 Spider

5. Ferrari 488 Spider

See: All Ferrari 488 Articles / 488 Spider In-Depth

While the 488 Spider destroys every other car on this list in terms of outright performance, it was not enough to crack a top three place on our best of list. Make no mistake though, this is one great car. The 3.9-liter twin-turbocharged V8 churns 661 bhp and 560 lb ft of torque and just won engine of the year (again). It is arguably the best turbocharged engine ever made. Does this engine ever give you that same feeling you get deep inside when you wind up to 8,000+ rpm in the naturally-aspirated V8s in the back of the 458 Italia or F430? Nope.

While the 488 Pista exists, we don’t think it moved things on far enough from the base 488 GTB. We also chose the Spider over the GTB because this is all you need. It is just as good as the coupe with all the benefits of open top fun. The 488 Spider is amazingly efficient, fast and enjoyable and there is a strong case to be made that the Ferrari 488 Spider is the single greatest modern automobile for sale in all the world in terms of doing it all.

What about performance? Well the stunning drop-top version of the 488 GTB can sprint to 60 mph in about 3-second and hit a 205 mph top speed. Ferrari has produced another masterpiece with the 488 Spider.

Ferrari F355

Ferrari F355

6. Ferrari F355

See: Ferrari 355 In-Depth

The F355 was introduced in 1994 for the 1995 model year. The F355 righted all the wrongs of the preceding 348 starting with that fabulous V8. When the F355 went on sale, it had the highest specific output of any car on sale, squeezing 375 bhp from a 3.5-liter V8.

When it came to the F355, design was everything. It is easily one of the most beautiful modern cars ever designed. Where the Testerossa and 348 have aged poorly, the F355 is beautiful and looks amazing today.

The F355 also sounds amazing. When you step on the gas pedal in an F355 it just revs and revs and revs. The sound develops a hard edge and screams in true Ferrari tradition. Unlike modern Ferraris though, you won’t be doing immediate jail time speeds because while the F355 is fast it isn’t too fast. 0-62mph is covered in 4.7 second and a top speed of 183 mph was possible, so nothing crazy for 2018. EVO magazine nailed when they said: “‘Perhaps for the first time, Ferrari has managed to successfully combine age-old passion and heart-pounding emotion with state-of-the-art engineering and electronics.”

This is everything a Ferrari is supposed to be.

Ferrari 288 GTO

Ferrari 288 GTO

7. Ferrari 288 GTO

See: All Ferrari 288 GTO Articles / 288 GTO In-Depth

Thank Group B race regulations that led to the creation of one of Ferrari’s most iconic cars, the 288 GTO. The 288 was the first Ferrari to wear the GTO nameplate since the iconic 250 GTO. Group B was canceled before the 288 saw any competition so Ferrari just kept going to built the car anyway. producing the car.

From the outside the 288 looks like a 308 GTB that has had some steroids. It is not. Beneath the skin it had an advanced tubular chassis and was full of advanced composite materials like Kevlar and fiberglass.

The GTO was fitted with a 2.8L V8 with massive twin IHI turbos that produced 400bhp at 7000 rpm through a five-speed gearbox and a limited-slip differential. The GTO could hit 60 mph in just 4.9 seconds – nearly two whole seconds faster than the 308 – and would go on to 189 mph.

Ferrari still built 272 for homologation purposes so good luck trying to get your hands on one.

Ferrari 308

Ferrari 308

8. Ferrari 308/328

All Ferrari 208/308/328 Articles

As big fans of classic, raw and basic cars it is a bit surprising that the 308/328 isn’t higher on our list but I guess that says a lot about the competition for top honors in this prestigious list.

The Pininfarina designed 308 was the first of the mid-engined V8 breed to emerge from Ferrari and made its debut in 1975. While it is slow by today’s standards it is just a great car all around and so much fun.

The carb-fed 2.9-litre mid-mounted V8 packed 252 hp and hustled the ~2000 pound Ferrari to 60 mph in 6 seconds (not bad for 1975 actually). Top speed was 152 mph. The classic design is known by everybody and is still pretty modern with its wedge shape and vents.

Ferrari expanded the 308 lineup with several variants of the coupe and convertible models. Fuel injection arrived in 1980, a V8 with four valves per cylinder made its debut in 1982, and Ferrari gave its entry-level model a new 3.2-liter engine in 1985. The extra displacement warranted an updated design and a new name — 328 GTB. Our pick is the 328.


Bang for Your Buck: Bargain V8 Ferraris

While we would all love to buy a Ferrari F40 or 458 Speciale we know it that readers of Supercars.net want bargains. Good news then because we’re about to share the best bang for your buck Ferrari V8s, the ones you should scoop up quickly. Here are V8 Ferraris that you can buy today for reasonable money.

Ferrari 328 GTS

Ferrari 328 GTS

1. Ferrari 328 GTS

See: Ferrari 328 GTS In-Depth

Summer 2018 Price: [Price]

In the mid-80s, the elegant shape of the open-topped 308 GTS was further softened and rounded to become – once a 270bhp 3.2-liter engine had been fitted amidships – the 328 GTS.

The curvier body not only updated the looks, it also improved the aerodynamics. Inside the new drop-top, the now outdated 1970s seats and trim and switchgear were also thoroughly refreshed.

Launched at the Frankfurt Motor Show of 1985, the 328 GTS was an instant hit and – during the four years of its production – more than 6,000 cars were sold: around five times as many as its hard-topped brother, the 328 GTB.

Ferrari 360 Modena

Ferrari 360 Modena

2. Ferrari 360 Modena

See: Ferrari 360 Modena In-Depth

Summer 2018 Price: >$100,000 USD

You can buy a 360 Modena for under US$100,000 these days and that feels like great value for a what was a giant leap over the F355. While the 360 hasn’t aged as well as the F355 in terms of design, the car was a technical masterpiece and drives much better than it looks.

The 360 Modena was a replacement for the F355. The mid-engine Ferrari 360 Modena had a 400 hp 3.6-liter V8 and transmission offered in both F1 paddle shift and six-speed manual. The Ferrari 360 Modena hit 60 mph in 4.4 seconds so it’s hot hatch territory fast these days, but it feels faster in person and has an exhaust note that will go down in history books as one of the best sounding cars ever. You could drive the F360 everyday, it is comfortable and relatively reliable while still being fun.

The Ferrari 360 used aluminium extensively which made it 130 pounds lighter than the F355 and increased rigidity by 64%. You can tell the difference when driving too, the 360 is easier to drive, more composed and more fun than the F355. If you want serious performance we’d recommend you opt for the F430 which is still a decent daily driver but significantly more hardcore performance machine.

Ferrari F355

Ferrari F355

3. Ferrari F355

See: Ferrari 355 In-Depth

Summer 2018 Price: $70,000 – $80,000 USD

If you have $70k to $80k to spend you can buy yourself an Audi A6 or a Ferrari F355. I know which one I would choose, given me the best looking modern-day Ferrari every time. The good news is that there are lots of F355s out there with 11,273 units produced (our pick would be a six-speed manual in GTS (targa roof) spec and optional Fiorano handling pack).

Although closely related to those late-model 348s, the F355 was a massive step forward technically. and also heralded the return of the beautiful Ferrari after the brash brutality of the 1980s machines. There were Berlinetta (coupe), GTS (targa roof) and Spider (convertible) models available. Manual gearboxes we standard until 1997 with the launch of the F1 gearbox (a single-clutch automated transmission).

The F355 is a special car to drive. The flat-plane-crank V8 doesn’t actually sound that good when you’re cruising, but floor the throttle and get past 5,500 rpm and this is one of the finest engines ever made. It is an absolute delight to drive and you will wring it out every chance you get. While it is not that fast in today’s terms it still accelerates with real determination and is genuinely balanced and sporty in the twisty stuff. A malleable, exploitable and enjoyable Ferrari that is modern, looks stunning and has spine tingling flat-plane-crank V8. What’s not to love.

Ferrari F430

Ferrari F430

4. Ferrari F430

See: Ferrari F430 In-Depth

Summer 2018 Price: [Price]

While the Scuderia is still not “bargain” money, the Spider and Coupe F430 versions are starting at just under $90,000 (that’s 991 Porsche money). Sure that isn’t cheap per se but remember we’re talking a proper Ferrari that is awesome and still modern enough that it doesn’t seem classic (Top Gear called it the best car in the world when they first reviewed it).

We recently drove a friends manual F430 and it is faster and more engaging than you can imagine. In this day and age of McLaren 720S absurdity, a F430 is probably the pinnacle in our minds of everyday driveability and sports car fun on the road before things really get out of hand. The F430 has a 4.3 liter naturally aspirated V8 and makes 490 horsepower at 8,500 rpm redline. It weighs 3,200 pounds and reaches 0-60 in 3.8 seconds.

Every review of the car glowed with praise. Handling was supposedly fantastic. This was the first car that started the now-cliche trope that the electronics actually helped the driving experience rather than detracted from it. Our pick is a manual car and we’d opt for the coupe over the spider personally. Behind the wheel of the F430 is a blast. It is teaming with feel, is flat in corners and is enjoyable on the street, mountain pass or the track. It is really comfortable and surprisingly easy to maneuver. The perfect Ferrari available used today? We think so.

Ferrari 308 GT4

Ferrari 308 GT4

5. Ferrari 308 GT4

See: Ferrari 308 GT4 In-Depth

Summer 2018 Price: [Price]

We will be the first ones to say that buying a 1970s era Ferrari isn’t for the faint of heart. Initially badged as a Dino the 308 GT4 only officially became a ‘real’ Ferrari three years later. We love the cool ‘70s wedge-shaped car and it’s fun 250bhp V8. While 0-60mph in 6.9 seconds is not fast by today’s standard, we can say that driving this car is a real experience.

There is some historical value here too with this being Ferrari’s first V8 road car and the marque’s first mid-engined 2+2, but the 308 GT4 (‘3’ for 3 litres,‘8’ for 8 cylinders, ‘4’ for 4 seats). Even more historically significant was that this Ferrari was designer by Bertone rather than Pininfarina (which is really rare).

Ferrari Mondial

Ferrari Mondial

6. Ferrari Mondial

See: Ferrari Mondial T In-Depth

Summer 2018 Price: [Price]

The Mondial was one of Ferrari’s most commercially successful models, with over 6,000 examples produced over its thirteen-year run and that is good for second hand prices. The Mondial underwent many updates throughout its production with four distinct variants produced: the Mondial 8, Mondial QV, Mondial 3.2, and Mondial t. All but the Mondial 8 were released in both coupé and cabriolet (convertible) body form. It was the successor to the 308 GT4 and this time Pininfarina was in charge of design.

This is a practical Ferrari. It had a longer wheelbase which meant some more space for the back seats and, thanks to this and its greater levels of comfort. It is a genuinely useable Ferrari. Today, Mondial is a byword for an affordable – but still high-performance – classic Ferrari.

Our pick is the final Mondial variant, the Mondial t, released in 1989. This contained some of the biggest changes in the Mondial history, with an even-larger 3.4 l (210 cu in) engine, a substantial update to the exterior styling and interior ergonomics, and with an entirely new, albeit more complex to service, powertrain. Overall the Mondial t is considered the best vehicle in the range regarding overall performance and refinement, although it is often noted that this comes at the cost of greater maintenance.

Ferrari California

Ferrari California

7. Ferrari California

See: Ferrari California In-Depth

Summer 2018 Price: >$100,000 USD

Yes, this is a real Ferrari and yes it is a relative bargain these days. For under $100k gets you a Ferrari V8 you can drive every day. While it is often panned as not a real Ferrari, we can assure you having driven the California it is a great Ferrari. Sure, it isn’t a canyon carver like a 458 but it is the perfect daily driver and is easily the most practical Ferrari you can buy.

The California was first Ferrari road car to have a front-mounted V8 engine, the first to have a dual-clutch gearbox and came with an automated, fully retractable metal roof. It’s a softer, more approachable Ferrari which is why which 70 percent of California buyers so were new to the brand. If you want a Ferrari that is quick with a blend of everyday usability and outright enjoyment, then this might be the Ferrari V8 bargain for you.

While the California was made all the way through 2017 we suggest you focus on the earlier 2008 to 2012 models if you’re looking for a true bargain.


Ferrari’s Best V8 Engines

We’ve talked about the cars, but now it is time to talk about the actual engines themselves. Ferrari V8s are special and it is a story about how Ferrari continues to innovate, tweak and improve over time.

Consider the 458 Italia. The V8 in that car revved to an astronomical RPM for a relatively sizable (4.5-liter) engine, it boasted the highest average piston speed in production when it was launched, cracked the 130 hp/liter and 85 lb-ft/liter marks (all crazy insane numbers). In the Speciale it combined to create probably the best car on the planet over the last decade. This 4.5-liter V-8 is a last hurrah from the naturally aspirated masters at Maranello.

Then we started to see the likes of McLaren who were able to get more power from their turbocharged set up and comply with even stricter emissions regulations. The end of the naturally aspirated Ferrari V8 was clear and we were all nervous and apprehensive as the launch of the 488 neared. The introduction of the turbocharged 488GTB showed that Ferrari is still the best engine maker on the planet and they showed that they can make turbocharged engines fun. It won several engine of the year awards and Dean Slavnich, co-chairman of the IEOTY Awards said it best:

“In the 488 GTB, the 3.9-litre eight-cylinder was a near-perfect example of a high-performance turbocharged engine, setting the bar so high that it swept aside rival powertrains,” said Dean Slavnich, co-chairman of the IEOTY Awards. “But redeveloped and tweaked for the 488 Pista, the best engine in the world just got better. Without doubt, we’re looking at an engineering masterclass from Ferrari. No turbo lag, beautiful delivery, raw emotion, a furious growl and so much power – this Ferrari V8 is a work of art.”

That’s some high praise for an engine that produces 711 horsepower (530 kilowatts) and 568 pound-feet (770 Newton-meters) of torque. Ferrari says this is the most powerful V8 engine in its history. This is the third year Ferrari’s 3.9-liter engine won the award, bringing home an additional five awards this year. Since the award started 20 years ago, Ferrari has won a total of 27 trophies. That shelf is getting crowded.

Where does the Ferrari V8 go from here? No idea, but we cannot wait to see it.

Ferrari V8 Engines & The Models They Powered

Early in its history Ferrari dabbled with V8 engines for its racing cars. The first Ferrari V8 engine was derived from a Lancia project and was used in DS50 F1 race cars. A Chiti designed V8 was then used in 1962 to power the 268SP and 248SP cars and soon after in 1964 a Rocchi-Bellei V8 used for F1. More recently Ferrari’s V8 engines designed by Gilles Simon powered the F1 cars from 2006 through 2013 when the FIA changed the regulations, replacing the 2.4-litre V8 engines with 1.6 litre V6 turbo engines for the 2014 season.

Most of us don’t’ drive race cars though, so we’re going to focus on production and road car V8s. The Dino V8 family that had the longest run of any Ferrari V8, powering road cars from the early 1970s through 2004 when it was replaced by a new Ferrari/Maserati design known as the F136 engine. The F136 was a naturally aspirated gem but such is technical and emissions progress that it a newer, turbocharged F154 V8 was introduced. The F154 V8 ushered Ferrari into the modern turbocharged era.

Ferrari 360 Engine

Ferrari 360 Engine

Ferrari Dino V8 engine

Specs: 90° V8
Production: 1974 – 2004 .
Road Cars: 308 GT4, 308 GTB/GTS, 208 GT4, 208 GTBi/GTSi, 208 GTBi/GTSi, 208 Turbo, 288 GTO, 308 GTBi/GTSi, Mondial 8,  Mondial qv, 308 GTB/GTS qv, 3.2 Mondial, 328 GTB/GTS, F40, Mondial t, 348 tb/ts, GTB/GTS, Spider, F355 GTB, GTS, Spider, 360 Modena, Spider, Challenge Stradale

The Ferrari Dino engine was a range of V8 (and V6) engines in production for almost forty years and powered a lot of Ferrari cars over the years. It traces its roots right back to prototype racers of the early 1960s. It’s pinnacle was F131 for the Challenge Stradale, displacing 3.6L and with titanium on the inside producing 420hp at a furious 8,500 rpm, it is one of favorite naturally aspirated soundtracks of all time. This legendary V8 was also turbocharged for duty in the epic 288 GTO and F40.

The Dino V6/V8 engine range came about because the young Dino Ferrari urged his father to build it for F2 racing. The Dino V6 came first and was Ferrari’s first V6 engine. The Dino V8 engine came shortly afterwards.

The first car with the Dino V8 was the 1962 268 SP with the same 77×71 mm bore and stroke as the Colombo V12. In terms of road cars, the Dino V8 was first used in the Dino range (replacing the V6) in the 1973 GT4 and 1975 GTB “308” cars (the Dino & Ferrari badged 308 GT4s had engine F106AL while the 308 GTS/GTB had engine F106AB).  It wasn’t until 1980 that we saw fuel injection in the form of a 2.9L version of the engine used in the 1980 Mondial 8 (engine F106B) and 1980 308 GTBi & GTSi (engine F106BB).

The next iteration of the V8 was the Quattrovalvole, which added 4 valves per cylinder. Used in the 1982 308 and Mondial Quattrovalvole (or QV) (engine F105AB) it also saw duty in the 1982 308 GTB QV & GTS QV (engine F105AB). Turbocharging came in 1982 with the introduction of the 208 GTB Turbo and 208 GTS Turbo (engine F106D). While the GTB Turbos were fun, it was the 288 GTO that made the Turbo V8 Ferrari a real performance hero. The GTO was based on the mid-engine, rear wheel drive 308 GTB and the “288” refers to the GTO’s 2.8 litre engine displacement. Ferrari bolted two IHI turbos, a Behr intercooler, and Weber-Marelli fuel injection, to get the GTO up to 400 hp (in 1984).

A 3.2 liter version of the Dino V8 was used in 1985 for the 328 GTB, GTS and 3.2 Mondial. The V8 engine was essentially of the same design as that used in the 308 Quattrovalvole model, with an increase in capacity to 3185 cc, with a bore and stroke of 83 mm (3.3 in) x 73.6 mm (2.9 in) (engine F105CB). The engine retained the Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection system of its predecessor, but was fitted with updated electronic ignition system that all combined to give it 270 hp at 7000 rpm.

Next up was the F40. It was powered by an enlarged, mid-mounted 2.9L (2936 cc) version of the GTO’s IHI twin-turbocharged V8 engine (engine F120A). The F40’s future engine received a small increase in capacity, a slightly higher compression ratio of 7.7:1, a rise in boost pressure, and a number of other changes that resulted in a respectable improvement in the engine’s power output and torque. According to Ferrari, the engine was capable of developing 478 hp at 7,000rpm, which most pundits agreed was conservative.

The Dino V8 continued to be improved and 1989 it was updated for the new 348 and Mondial t models. Bored and stroked to 3.4 L, power increased to 300 hp in the F129D/G, and revised as the F119H with 320 hp in later Ferrari 348s. The F355 saw the introduction of five valves per cylinder. This new head design allowed for better intake permeability and resulted in an engine that was considerably more powerful, producing 375 hp. The engine’s compression ratio was 11:1 and employed the Bosch Motronic M2.7 ECU (engine F129B). This was later changed to the M5.2 in 1996 through end of production (engine F129C).

The final model to use the Dino V8 was the F360 from 1999 through 2004. The 1999 360 Modena retained the 85 mm bore of the F355 engine, but increased the stroke to 79 mm, to raise the displacement again to 3.6 litre capacity and 395 hp. Modifications to the intake/exhaust and an increased 11.2:1 compression ratio produced 425 hp for the 360 Challenge Stradale.

Models Years Engine & Variant Displacement Notes
308 GT4, 308 GTB/GTS 1974 – 1980 F106AL, F106AB 2927 cc
208 GT4, 208 GTBi/GTSi 1974 – 1979 1990 cc
208 GTBi/GTSi, 208 Turbo 1980 – 1986 1991 cc turbocharged
288 GTO 1984 – 1985 F114B 2855 cc turbocharged
308 GTBi/GTSi, Mondial 8 1980 – 1982 F106B, F105A, F106A, F106A 2927 cc
Mondial qv, 308 GTB/GTS qv 1982 – 1984 F105A 2927 cc quattrovalvole
3.2 Mondial, 328 GTB/GTS 1985 – 1989 F105C 3185 cc 270 hp
F40 1987 – 1988 F120A 2936 cc 478 hp
Mondial t, 348 tb/ts, GTB/GTS, Spider 1989 – 1995 F129D, F119G, F119H 3405 cc 300 hp, 320 hp
F355 GTB, GTS, Spider 1994 – 1999 F129B, F129C 3496 cc 375 hp
360 Modena, Spider, Challenge Stradale 1999 – 2004 F131 3586 cc 395 hp

Ferrari 458 Speciale Engine

Ferrari 458 Speciale Engine

F136 engine (Tipo F136)

Specs:  F136, 90° V8, 4.2L – 4.7L, 385 hp – 597 hp
Production: 2002 – 2016
Road Cars: Ferrari F430, Ferrari F430 Spider, Ferrari 430 Scuderia, Ferrari Scuderia Spider 16M, Ferrari California, Ferrari 458 Italia, Ferrari 458 Spider, Ferrari 458 Speciale, Ferrari 458 Speciale A

The award winning F136 engine was a collaboration between Ferrari and Maserati. It spawned a family of engines between 4.2 and 4.7L with power ranging between 385hp and 597hp. The engines were 90° V8 designs that were all naturally aspirated, incorporate dual overhead camshafts, variable valve timing, and four valves per cylinder.

The F136 engine family has won a total of 8 awards in the International Engine of the Year competition. The F136 FB engine variant was awarded “Best Performance Engine” and “Above 4.0 litre” recognitions in 2011 and 2012, while the F136 FL variant won the same categories in 2014 and 2015.

Ferrari, Maserati and Alfa Romeo all used this engine. Ferrari saw the engine used for road cars like F430 (F136 E), California (F136 I) and 458 (F136 F) as well as F430 and 458 based race cars in the Challenge, GTC, GT2 and GT3 classes.

Model Years Engine & Variant Displacement Power
Ferrari F430 2007 – 2009 F136 E 4,308 cc 483 hp
Ferrari F430 Spider 2007 – 2009 F136 E 4,308 cc 483 hp
Ferrari 430 Scuderia 2007 – 2009 F136 E (F136 ED) 4,308 cc 503 hp
Ferrari Scuderia Spider 16M 2007 – 2009 F136 E (F136 ED) 4,308 cc 503 hp
Ferrari California 2009 – 2012 F136 I (F136 IB) 4,297 cc 454 hp
Ferrari California 2012 – 2014 F136 I (F136 IH) 4,297 cc 483 hp
Ferrari 458 Italia 2009 – 2015 F136 F (F136 FB) 4,499 c 562 hp
Ferrari 458 Spider 2009 – 2015 F136 F (F136 FB) 4,499 c 562 hp
Ferrari 458 Speciale 2013 – 2016 F136 F (F136 FL) 4,499 c 597 hp
Ferrari 458 Speciale A 2013 – 2016 F136 F (F136 FL) 4,499 c 597 hp

Ferrari 488 EngineFerrari 488 Engine

Ferrari F154 V8 engine (Tipo F154)

Specs: F154, 90° Twin Turbo V8, 2.9L 3.8L 3.9L, 552 hp – 710 hp
Production: 2013 – present
Road Cars: Ferrari California T, Ferrari GTC4Lusso T, Ferrari Portofino, Ferrari 488 GTB, Ferrari 488 Spider, Ferrari 488 Pista

First seen on the 2014 Ferrari California T, the F154 is Ferrari’s turbocharged V8 engine for the latest generation of cars. Ferrari’s naturally aspirated era V8s won a lot of awards and it looks like the switch to turbos hasn’t slowed down the folks at Maranello. The F154 twin-turbocharged flat plane V8 has won numerous accolades including the Engine of the Year three years in a row. In 2018, the 3.9-litre twin-turbo V8 found in the Ferrari 488 Pista again won the international Engine Of The Year Award, while the turbo-charged V8 is voted the best engine of the last 20 years. That says a lot when it comes from the guys who rate engines for a living. The 3.9-litre twin-turbo V8 in the Ferrari 488 Pista makes a whopping 711 bhp of peak power and an impressive 770 Nm of peak torque. The 488 Pista goes from 0-100 kmph in just 2.85 seconds and on to a top speed of 340 kmph! 0-200 kmph comes up in just 7.5 seconds.

This engine powers the standard 488 GTB and spyder and also does duty in a slightly detuned state in the likes of the Ferrari Portofino and GTC4Lusso T. The mid mounted engine is mated to a dual clutch gearbox that gets power to the rear wheels. The engine also features a sportier exhaust system with a more aggressive exhaust note to differentiate it from the standard 488 GTB.

There seems to be a lot of room for improvement as Ferrari gets better at turbocharged technology. In the 488 GTB, the engine was nearly without fault. In the 488 Pista it took it to the next level. No turbo lag, beautiful delivery, raw emotion, a furious growl and so much power. We’re excited as Ferrari continues to develop the F154.

The F154 V8 engines have a 90° angle between the cylinder banks, aluminium block and heads. The forced induction system uses two parallel twin-scroll water-cooled turbochargers supplied by IHI and two air-to-air intercoolers. The valvetrain consists of 32 valves actuated through roller finger followers by two overhead camshafts per bank; the timing chain is located on the flywheel side. All versions feature gasoline direct injection and continuously variable valve timing on both intake and exhaust side. Ferrari’s version (this engine is also used by Maserati and Alfa) has flat plane crankshaft and dry sump lubrication. In order to obtain equal length pipes, the exhaust manifolds are manufactured from multiple welded cast steel pieces; the turbocharger housing uses a similar three-piece construction.

Model Years Engine & Variant Displacement Power
Ferrari California T 2014 – 2017 F154 (F154 BB) 3,855 cc 552 hp
Ferrari GTC4Lusso T 2017 – present F154 (F154 BD) 3,855 cc 602 hp
Ferrari Portofino 2018 – present F154 (F154 BE) 3,855 cc 592 hp
Ferrari 488 GTB 2015 – present F154 (F154 CB) 3,902 cc 661 hp
Ferrari 488 Spider 2015 – present F154 (F154 CB) 3,902 cc 661 hp
Ferrari 488 Pista 2018 – present F154 (F154 CD) 3,902 cc 710 hp

The 18 Best Limited Edition & One Off Specials Ferrari Ever Made

The Greatest Limited Edition & One Off Ferraris

Let’s start with the obvious. All Ferrari models are special. Ferrari is already one of the most exclusive carmakers in the world and just about everything that Ferrari builds can be considered limited and unique relative to other carmakers. If you own a Ferrari or want to buy one, you are in good hands so don’t freak out if you don’t see your car on this list.

However, there is a group of Ferrari cars that are extra rare and so limited that they are often a production run of one. When it comes to Ferrari, some models are more special than others. A one-off Ferrari has distinctive aura about it. It is untouchable.

To date we have counted almost fifty special edition Ferrari’s, which we define as being very limited edition or one-off Ferrari car that was built purposely as a limited edition model. If we had to pick we would say that production is no more than a few dozen cars max. Ferrari has offered numerous limited or one-off editions of its vehicles over the years. Some limited editions were built with a production run of as low as five units while the one-off models were built for some of the company’s most exclusive clients or as prototypes to gauge feedback. We don’t count early Ferrari cars that were made in low production numbers because Ferrari was just starting out. We also don’t count the supercar and hypercars that Ferrari builds because they are all made in greater than 100 units volumes and were never designed to be one offs.

Often Ferrari would commission a special edition to commemorate an anniversary (they are doing that more often these days too). Sometimes the cars are designer and built in-house while other times Ferrari relies on its long time design and coach-building partners to take the lead. In the 80s Ferrari one offs became very secretive. Many of the one off Ferrari cars were made for people like the Sultan of Brunei and even today it is unclear how many were made. In recent years the custom and ultra rare Ferrari model has become a part of the official Ferrari offering. In 2007, Ferrari announced its Special Projects program that gave their most prized and wealthy collectors the chance to create their own projects. Before that custom made Ferrari’s were very secretive.

If you want to see the full list of one-off and very limited edition Ferrari cars then you can check them out here. If you want to learn about the greatest very limited edition Ferraris then continue reading because we rank the top eighteen below:

Ferrari F60 America

Ferrari F60 America

18. Ferrari F60 America

The Ferrari F60 America is effectively an open-top version of the insane F12. Designed to celebrate Ferrari’s 60th anniversary in North America the soft-top is based on the 6.3-litre V12-engined F12 Berlinetta and Ferrari says that all 10 were sold before it was even announced. The F60 trades in the F12’s hardtop for a lightweight fabric roof useable at speeds of up to 80mph. But the F60 America is actually rather more than just a de-roofed F12. There’s fresh aluminum bodywork, too, with deeper side strakes, extra bonnet holes and more pronounced winglets. Ferrari’s gave no hint on price so you can safely assume it to fall into the ‘eye-watering’ category.

Learn more about the F60 America

2012 Ferrari SP12 EC

2012 Ferrari SP12 EC

17. Ferrari SP12 EC

The EC in the Ferrari SP12 EC stands for Eric Clapton, as the legendary guitarist allegedly spent £3 million on this one-off creation. For a Ferrari enthusiast and great musician like Eric Clapton a one-off car seems totally appropriate. Designed to pay homage to the Ferrari 512 BB – of which Clapton has owned three – the SP12 EC was based on the 458 Italia.

Designed by the Centro Stile Ferrari in collaboration with Pininfarina and the engineers from Maranello, the SP12 EC was created as homage to Clapton’s career and his long lasting experience as a Ferrari owner.

Learn more about the Ferrari SP12 EC

1953 Ferrari 250 Europa Coupé Vignale Gallery

1953 Ferrari 250 Europa Coupé Vignale Gallery

16. Ferrari 250 Europa Coupe Vignale

Arguably one of the prettiest Ferraris ever created, the 250 Europa Coupe Vignale was presented at the 1954 New York Motor Show. Designed by Michelotti and built by Vignale, the one-off beauty is gorgeous.

In late 1953 Ferrari commissioned Vignale to create bodies for two of the early 250 Europa chassis as a bid for eventual series production. Vignale used a design with sloping fastback profile that was typical of their coupes at the time. After Paris, both of Vignale’s show cars were sold new to the United States.

Learn more about the Ferrari 250 Europa Coupé Vignale

2014 Ferrari F12 TRS Gallery

2014 Ferrari F12 TRS Gallery

15. Ferrari F12 TRS

Taking inspiration from the Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa of the 1950s, the F12 TRS is the F12 Berlinetta’s extreme cousin. The one-off special edition retains the standard car’s V12 engine, but the car is stripped back to the bare essentials. Look, even the roof has gone.

The F12 TRS was developed at a client’s request as an extreme, two-seater, open-top sports barchetta. The F12 TRS is Flavio Manzoni and the Ferrari Style Centre team’s modern, innovative take on the legendary 250 Testa Rossa spirit and pays homage to it in its moniker. Like all one-off Ferraris, the F12 TRS is the product of Ferrari’s now-classic approach of creating a truly integrated design. From the leading edge of the typically sharp Ferrari nose, aggressively sculpted forms flow back over the bonnet, while a low, wrap around windscreen forms a long dark band of glass in contrast to the car’s body.

Learn more about the Ferrari F12 TRS

14. Ferrari Pininfarina Sergio

Originally designed by Pininfarina as a tribute to the late and great Sergio Pininfarina, Ferrari recently announced that it would be building six Pininfarina Sergios. If you’re reading this and you haven’t placed your order, you’re too late. Designed by Pininfarina, just six of this incredibly limited edition roadster are being built. The car was created to celebrate the spirit and core values of the historic Cambiano company in the 60th anniversary year of its collaboration with the Prancing Horse. Needless to say, Sergio was the only possible choice of name for the model, in homage to great Sergio Pininfarina, who sealed the unique, longstanding partnership with Ferrari.

Learn more about the Ferrari Pininfarina Sergio

2011 Ferrari Superamerica 45 Gallery

2011 Ferrari Superamerica 45 Gallery

13. Ferrari Superamerica 45

You know you’ve made it in life when you’re able to commission Ferrari to build a special edition commemorating the 45th anniversary of your first Ferrari purchase. But that’s exactly what a New York collector did in 2011 with the Superamerica 45. Highlights include a rotating one-piece carbon fiber roof.

Ferrari has revealed a one-off version of the 599 commissioned by New York-based art collector and property developer Peter Kalikow. Called the Superamerica 45, the new open-top car was created to commemorate the 45th anniversary of Kalikow’s first Ferrari purchase, a secondhand 400 Superamerica convertible. The design is bespoke, featuring a carbon-fibre rotating hard-top which incorporates a rear screen. The boot is entirely new to house the roof when open, and is now in carbon-fibre with a design optimized to reduce drag and increase rear downforce.

Learn more about the Ferrari Superamerica 45

2005 Ferrari GG50 Concept Gallery

2005 Ferrari GG50 Concept Gallery

12. Ferrari GG50

Technically this was a concept but we’re counting it as a one off special because it is so cool. Built to celebrate Giorgetto Giugiaro’s 50th year as a car designer, the Ferrari GG50 was based on the 612 Scaglietti.

“After fifty years and some hundreds of cars, just one was missing”, said Giorgetto Giugiaro to explain the GG50, the Ferrari he presented at the Tokyo Show after a half century in the design business. The name of the car is significant: GG50, where GG stands for Giorgetto Giugiaro, 50 the career goal he has reached.

All the mechanicals stayed the same but the body is all new and has been modified to a sleeker and sexier look. The other element that largely determines the new image is the decided tapering of the four corners that soften the contours of the car from above and that offer in three-quarter view a more compact feeling. The interior, which retains the same instrumentation but not the same dashboard as the 612 Scaglietti has been re-arranged ergonomically by working on a full-sized dummy. Amazingly, the concept – which was sketched by the great man himself – featured a hatchback and flat-folding rear seats. How very practical.

Learn more about the 2005 Ferrari GG50 Concept

11. Ferrari 575 GTZ Zagato

Only six Ferrari 575 Maranellos were treated to a Zagato body, but each one was unique and tailored to the individual needs of the first owner. For Zagato, the project represented an opportunity to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Ferrari 250 GTZ of 1956.

The 575 GTZ has an all-aluminium body, and, as a tribute to Ferrari and to two-seater Italian sports cars, it has joined the exclusive group of cars that are the fruit of the tradition of custom-built cars. It sports two-tone paintwork with styling cues and volumes that explicitly refer back to the 1950s. The model is a sublime synthesis of prestige and performance, elegance and sportiness, to the point that it can boast the highest value of any car in the luxury period sports car market. The 250 GTZ has won numerous competitions and concours d’Elegance.

Learn more about the Ferrari 575 GTZ

2009 Ferrari P540 Superfast Aperta

2009 Ferrari P540 Superfast Aperta

10. Ferrari P540 Superfast Aperta

Do not adjust your computer screen, this is indeed a gold Ferrari. The Pininfarina-designed P540 Superfast Aperta was commissioned by the son of the chap who invented cable TV. According to Edward Watson, it was “the most special Christmas present of my life”.

Edward Walson approached Ferrari in 2008 to produce a modern reinterpretation of the gold-coloured car he had seen in an obscure Fellini film. “I had always dreamed of designing sports cars,” Walson explains, “and when I saw this film the decision came of its own accord: one day I would have ‘my’ Ferrari.” In accordance with the Special Project’s approach to producing such individual one-offs, the P540 Superfast Aperta respects all existing international safety and homologation requirements and is thus road legal. The car was designed by Pininfarina and built in Maranello, and the client was directly involved in each stage of its development.

Learn more about the Ferrari P540 Superfast Aperta

Ferrari SA Aperta

Ferrari SA Aperta

9. Ferrari SA Aperta

Ah, that’s better. Announced at the 2010 Paris Motor Show, the SA Aperta was a drop-top version of the Ferrari 599, with all 80 cars sold before it was unveiled. Is 80 too many for this car to be considered in our extra special limited edition list? Perhaps, but when it looks this good, who’s complaining?

Ferrari chose to build 80 SA APERTAs in celebration of Pininfarina’s 80th anniversary. The SA nomenclature also pays homage to both Sergio and Andrea Pininfarina whose company and work have been linked to the most successful road-going cars ever built at Maranello. The SA APERTA is a true roadster which allows its occupants to enjoy the superlative emotions afforded by our signature front-engined V12 architecture in a completely open-top setting.

Learn more about the Ferrari 599 SA APERTA

8. Ferrari 250 GT Berlinetta by Zagato

You have to hand it to Zagato, for it knows a thing or two about creating Ferrari-based masterpieces. Using the 250 GT Tour de France chassis, Zagato transformed the race car into a more opulent affair. Five were built – a Berlinetta (seen here), Coupe Corsa, Competizione, Lusso and Prototipo.

Learn more about the Ferrari 250 GT Zagato

7. Ferrari SP38

The SP38 – which uses the chassis and running-gear from a 488 GTB – was built for “one of Ferrari’s most dedicated customers” who has a “deep passion for racing”. The SP38 is a modified Ferrari 488 GTB, with a cool louvered cover for the twin-turbo V8 engine and a much more dialed-back, daggerlike front fascia. We sampled the 488 a few years back and were monumentally impressed.

Learn more about the Ferrari SP38

6. Ferrari FX

The FX was like many of the Sultan specials in that it used then current production car underpinnings to support newer and sometimes better bodies, interiors and drive trains. In the case of our feature car, it was modified so extensively, a new name was needed to distinguish it from the 512M it started life as. Not only is this an interesting vehicle in detail, but it is the fourth in a series of seven nearly identical cars. Each car started life at Pininfarina where the new body was fitted to the 512 superstructure. It was fabricated out of aluminum and, where possible, carbon fibre was used for panels such as the hood, doors and wheel wells.

Learn more about the Ferrari FX

5. Ferrari F90

After almost 18 years, Ferrari acknowledged that the F90 existed and six were made for the Sultan of Brunei in 1988. The project was managed by Enrico Fumia, the head of the Research and Development department at Pininfarina. At the time, the project was top secret, so much so, Ferrari didn’t know of the project. Fumia styled the car and said the F90 name reffed to it being a “Ferrari of the ’90s.”

Learn more about the 1988 Ferrari F90

4. Ferrari J50

Ferrari does really know how to surprise us. Their introduction of a brand-new ultra-limited-edition targa version of the 488 named Ferrari J50 definitely came out as a big surprise to everyone in the automobile industry. This is a more powerful version of the 488 and in addition to that, the J50 comes with more style and exclusivity to immediately make a good impression out of everyone.

The company decided to give the J50 a power boost although in our opinion the Ferrari 488 don’t really need such kind of improvement but they still did it anyway. The Ferrari J50 is a special limited-edition car that it completely based on the 488 but packs with more power thanks to the 3.9-litre V8 cranked up to 681bhp – 20bhp.

And you say special limited-edition, it definitely is a limited-edition car with only 10 production units being built to honor the Ferrari’s 50th anniversary in Japan. This means that this is car is going to be sold at a considerably high price tag and that it will be sold out before it can even come out of the factory.

Learn more about the Ferrari J50

1966 Ferrari 365 P Berlinetta Speciale Gallery

1966 Ferrari 365 P Berlinetta Speciale Gallery

3. Ferrari 365 P Berlinetta Speciale

Two recovered 365 P chassis received special bodywork and this white supercar, built on chassis 8971 was one of Sergio Pininfarina’s first designs. It was built in a pair of cars ordered by Fiat Boss Gianni Agnelli, and one was prematurely displayed at the 1966 Paris Motor Show without its full running gear on Pininfarina’s stand. The 365 P was a radical platform for a new design study as it was intended as a Le Mans contender. Located midship, the 4.4 liter V12 which powered this car, produced 380 horsepower, and that was in detuned form.

Internally at Pininfarina the car was known as Coupe Ferrari 3 Posti for its unique three seat design. Much like the modern day McLaren, it has a central driver’s position with two seats at each side of the driver. This layout is advantageous because it gives a high level of visibility to the driver and maximizes interior space. Pininfarina’s exterior design lent many traits from the Dino prototypes which were shown in 1965. Because of its numerous similaries, and hefty engine, the 365P Speciale can be seen as one of the father cars to the 206/246 production cars.

Learn more about the Ferrari 365 P Berlinetta Speciale

Ferrari 458 MM Speciale

Ferrari 458 MM Speciale

2. Ferrari 458 MM Speciale

Designed in-house by the Ferrari Styling Centre, the 458 MM Speciale was built on the chassis and running gear of the 458 Speciale. The special client was looking for extremely sporty lines and specified a ‘visor’ effect for the glasshouse: a black-painted A-pillar, very much in the style of the 1984 Ferrari GTO, helps provide a wraparound solution between the windscreen and side windows which thus meld into single, seamless glass surface.

Finished in Bianco Italia and complete with a livery that pays homage to the Italian flag, this unique coupé features all-new bodywork, handcrafted in aluminium with composite carbon-fibre bumpers front and rear. The 458 MM Speciale also boasts a new side air scoop, one of the most distinctive elements in an extensive revision of the aerodynamic package. The radically modified aerodynamic solutions are already evident on the front of the car, where the bodywork hugs the coolant radiators which are more steeply inclined and mounted closer together than on the 458 Speciale.

1. Ferrari P4/5 by Pininfarina

The Ferrari P4/5 (officially known as the Ferrari P4/5 by Pininfarina) is a one-off sports car made by Italian sports car manufacturer Ferrari but redesigned by Pininfarina for film director and stock exchange magnate James Glickenhaus. The so-called ‘Beast of Turin’ has an incredible backstory. James Glickenhaus was approached by Pininfarina to commission a one-off car. Glickenhaus agreed and demanded the car should be based on the last unregistered Ferrari Enzo. The car was initially an Enzo Ferrari but Glickenhaus preferred the styling of Ferrari’s 1960s race cars, the P Series.

The project cost Glickenhaus US$ 4 million and was officially presented to the public in August 2006 at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elégance. Several websites were allowed to publish images of the clay model in July 2006. So impressed was he with the results, the then Ferrari chairman, Luca di Montezemolo agreed to have the Ferrari badge on the front.

Learn more about the Ferrari P4/5 By Pininfarina