The tension has reached a climax when Mariah Copeland directly confronts Ian Ward in a desperate effort to find her missing mother. Sharon has disappeared after the horrific shooting, and all clues lead to Ian Ward and his gang. Mariah, with her daughter’s instinct and inherent resilience, didn’t hesitate to plunge into danger to face the villain. She had a fiery encounter with Ian, begging him to reveal Sharon’s location, but Ian only replied with implied smiles and cruel threats.
In desperation, Mariah had to humble herself to ask for help from Victor Newman, the only person with enough resources and toughness to deal with someone like Ian Ward. Victor, although also busy with his own wars, agreed to help because of his old friendship with Sharon and to protect his grandchildren. Meanwhile, Nick Newman is still in a state of pure rage because he believes something bad happened to Sharon. He constantly conflicts with the police and the family because he thinks they are not doing enough to save her. Mariah is carrying too heavy a responsibility, and her persistence will be the decisive factor in whether the Newman family can find their heart again. Her willingness to put herself in Ian’s path shows the depth of her love for Sharon, but it also places her in extreme peril. Ian is enjoying the psychological torment he is inflicting on the family, using Sharon as a bargaining chip in his larger game against Victor. The clock is ticking, and Mariah knows that every minute without answers brings her closer to a truth she might not be able to survive.
Maranello’s Zenith: A Decade of Driving the Ultimate Ferrari Masterpieces
For over seventy years, Ferrari has consistently redefined automotive excellence, etching its name into the pantheon of the world’s most coveted and exhilarating machines. As an industry professional with a decade immersed in the visceral reality of driving and analyzing these iconic vehicles, I can attest that selecting the “best” Ferraris is akin to curating a gallery of gods. The sheer volume of brilliance emanating from Maranello means any definitive list will invariably spark debate, a testament to the brand’s enduring legacy. This exploration delves into the very soul of Ferrari, focusing on the road-going marvels that have, in my experience, truly captured the Maranello spirit. We’re talking about ultimate Ferrari driving experiences, from the aggressive precision of the 458 Speciale to the groundbreaking hybrid innovation of the 296 Speciale, and the raw, unadulterated adrenaline of the legendary F40.
The landscape of automotive performance has shifted dramatically. Gone are the days when raw horsepower was the sole arbiter of greatness. Today, it’s about the symphony of engineering, the nuanced interplay between engine, chassis, and driver. This evolution is keenly felt in Ferrari’s most recent offerings. While the roar of a naturally aspirated V12 still sends shivers down the spine, the finesse and ferocity delivered by advanced hybrid powertrains and meticulously honed turbocharged V8s represent the cutting edge. Even in the burgeoning SUV segment, epitomized by the Purosangue, Ferrari’s commitment to driving dynamics remains unwavering, though for this discussion, we’ll remain focused on their more traditional, and arguably more iconic, supercar and hypercar lineage.
This is not a theoretical exercise based on spec sheets. This compilation draws from countless hours behind the wheel, from exhilarating track days to spirited drives on winding backroads across various continents. We’ve experienced the evolution firsthand, from the analogue purity of earlier models to the sophisticated digital integration of today’s titans. The goal here is to capture the essence of what makes a Ferrari truly exceptional – not just its performance figures, but the intangible connection it fosters with its driver. This is about identifying those benchmark Ferrari models that have consistently set new standards and continue to inspire awe.
The Quintessential Mid-Engined Supercar: Ferrari 458 Speciale
When discussing the best Ferrari road cars, the Ferrari 458 Speciale inevitably emerges as a luminous example of what a mid-engined supercar should be. While the headline-grabbing figures of modern hybrids are impressive, the sheer audacity of the naturally aspirated 4.5-liter V8 in the 458 Speciale is something to behold. Its 597 horsepower, equating to a staggering 133 horsepower per liter, is merely a prelude to the sensory overload that follows.
What numbers can’t convey is the operatic soundtrack this V8 produces as it ascends to its electrifying 9,000 rpm redline. Ferrari’s relentless pursuit of weight reduction, resulting in a 90kg advantage over the standard 458, is palpable. It’s not just the engine, however; the chassis is a masterclass in responsiveness. The 458 Speciale delivers a driving experience that is simultaneously manic and utterly enthralling. Its agility, its directness, its sheer joy in being driven hard – it positions the 458 Speciale not just as one of the greatest mid-engined supercars ever conceived, but arguably, the finest supercar in existence. For those seeking the pinnacle of Ferrari performance cars, the 458 Speciale remains an unparalleled benchmark.
The F1-Derived Masterpiece: Ferrari F50
How does one follow an icon like the Ferrari F40? Ferrari’s audacious answer was the F50, a car that harnessed a Formula 1-derived naturally aspirated V12 engine, cloaked in a carbon fiber chassis and an open-top body. Many contemporary reviews hinted at a softer, less focused experience compared to the F40. Having driven both extensively, I can firmly state that this perception is misguided.
The F50 is, in many respects, an even more sublime road car than its legendary predecessor. The reach and response of its 4.7-liter V12 are nothing short of sublime. As a stressed member of the chassis, its vibrations permeate the cabin, creating an intoxicating visceral connection from the moment the engine ignites. This intensity and focus are not confined to the powertrain; they permeate the entire car, encouraging a level of commitment that belies the inherent intimidation factor of piloting a carbon-bodied, V12 hypercar on a challenging road. The F50 devours every input, responding with wonderfully communicative steering and one of the most extraordinary powertrains ever fitted to a road car, past or present. For enthusiasts of naturally aspirated V12 Ferraris, the F50 is a holy grail.
The V12 Renaissance: Ferrari 12 Cilindri
The arrival of the Ferrari 12 Cilindri marks a significant moment in the brand’s modern era, signifying a bold celebration of the V12 engine itself. Replacing the acclaimed 812 Superfast, the 12 Cilindri faced immense pressure to uphold the V12 legacy. Its striking Daytona-inspired design certainly polarized opinion initially, but Ferrari’s decision to retain a large-displacement, naturally aspirated V12 in 2024 proved to be a masterstroke, securing its critical acclaim from inception.
While my initial drive revealed a slight reduction in the aural theatre compared to its predecessor, the V12 remains an awe-inspiring piece of engineering. Although peak torque saw a modest decrease from the 812 Superfast, the uplift in horsepower to 819bhp places it firmly in league with the exceptional 812 Competizione, with a redline that just shy of an astonishing 9,500 rpm. The characteristic hyperactive controls are still present, but the 12 Cilindri leans more towards the grand tourer ethos than its predecessors. It offers increased predictability at the limit and remarkable comfort for long journeys, truly embodying the modern super GT Ferrari concept. Discussions around new Ferrari V12 models invariably center on this remarkable machine.
The Hybrid Revolution: Ferrari 296 Speciale
The Ferrari 296 Speciale presented a significant departure, with its downsized engine and plug-in hybrid system. Initially, this might have seemed a departure from the ‘Speciale’ ethos. However, the execution has resulted in an astonishingly potent machine. The moment you engage the throttle, the acceleration is ferocious, accompanied by a wailing V6 note that, remarkably, possesses a more engaging character than the twin-turbo V8 of the 488 Pista. The car’s weight seems to dissolve with the first turn of the wheel, exhibiting a fluidity and lightness of touch that defines the finest modern Ferraris. If this represents the future of supercar technology, then we are in for an extraordinary treat.
The 868bhp produced by the 296 Speciale eclipses the Pista in outright power, but it’s the seamless delivery that leaves an indelible mark. The electric motor artfully augments the 3-liter twin-turbo V6, creating the illusion of a much larger displacement engine. This instant response allows for driving with remarkable precision. The car feels laser-guided without exhibiting any nervousness, and the sophisticated chassis electronics democratize performance, rewarding drivers of all skill levels. Ferrari’s stated intention was to prioritize the driver’s feeling and thrills over mere lap times and G-forces. This philosophy is palpable behind the wheel – the 296 Speciale is undoubtedly a future Maranello legend. For those interested in hybrid Ferrari cars, this model is a watershed moment.
The Ultimate Naturally Aspirated V12 Track Weapon: Ferrari 812 Competizione
A recurring theme across modern performance Ferrari models is their shockingly potent capabilities. Ferraris have always been fast, but the current era sees horsepower figures reaching into the six, seven, and even eight hundreds. To truly exploit this immense power requires nerves of steel, and few cars make that experience as exhilarating as the Ferrari 812 Competizione.
While the 812 Superfast straddled the line between GT and supercar, the Competizione unequivocally resides in the latter domain. With 819bhp and a piercing 9,500 rpm redline, it delivers monumental, brain-scrambling speed. The initial realization of unleashing all those horses in second and third gear elicits a primal response that even seasoned drivers will find overwhelming. The Competizione takes the 812’s already extreme aero package to new heights with its contorted bodywork, intricate flicks, and splitters, asserting its formidable character before you even move. The inclusion of an independent rear-wheel-steering system, coupled with revised chassis electronics, is crucial for managing its prodigious power. The result is a scintillating yet organic driving experience unlike any other. When considering high-performance Ferrari sports cars, the 812 Competizione stands in a class of its own.
The Focused Track Day Special: Ferrari 430 Scuderia
The Ferrari 430 Scuderia represents Ferrari’s second foray into the “road racer special” category, building upon the foundation laid by the 360 Challenge Stradale and drawing parallels with the Porsche 911 GT3 RS of the same era. Introduced in 2007, the Scuderia benefited from Ferrari’s accelerating pace of technical innovation and performance enhancement. The 4.3-liter F136 V8 delivered 503bhp, remarkably close to the 575M V12 GT of just a few years prior, with its power delivery peaking at a high 8,500 rpm, indicative of the pre-turbocharging era.
This was also a time before the widespread adoption of dual-clutch transmissions. However, the Scuderia’s single-clutch ‘F1’ gearbox was among the fastest and most refined iterations, proving an excellent companion for enthusiastic road or track driving, a world away from the early F1 gearbox in the F355. The Scuderia incorporated Ferrari’s E-Diff, adaptive dampers, and F1-Track traction control system, designed to enhance performance rather than simply cut power at the first sign of wheelspin. Despite the increasing reliance on electronic aids, the 430 Scuderia remained one of Maranello’s most thrilling creations: technically astonishing, progressively capable, yet visceral and exciting, all wrapped in Pininfarina’s timeless design. For those seeking track-focused Ferrari models, the Scuderia is a compelling proposition.
The Front-Engined V12 Icon: Ferrari 550 Maranello
Much like its 456 predecessor, the Ferrari 550 Maranello drew frequent comparisons to the legendary Daytona. In fact, the connection was even more relevant with the 550. Its sharp, shark-like styling, though not universally adored at the time, possessed the same aggressive nose as the 365 GTB4. Crucially, like the Daytona, the 550 featured a two-seater configuration, unlike the more accommodating 456.
However, the 550 Maranello was not merely a GT; it served as a potent replacement for the Testarossa-derived 512M. It represented a significant leap forward in modernity and offered accessible handling characteristics thanks to its front-engined layout. The transaxle arrangement ensured ideal weight distribution, while the 478bhp, 5.5-liter V12 provided formidable power. It was a fabulous super GT that even made its mark in motorsport, with numerous privateer entries and a GTS class victory at Le Mans in 2003. For those who appreciate the allure of front-engine Ferrari V12s, the 550 Maranello is an undisputed classic.
The Modern Interpretation of Classic Elegance: Ferrari Roma
Ferrari’s California and Portofino models, while front-engined V8s, never quite captured the magic of their forebears. The Ferrari Roma, however, demonstrates that the concept was sound, but the execution was lacking in previous iterations. The Roma is perhaps the car those earlier models should have been: classically beautiful with subtle curves replacing Ferrari’s more recent aggressive styling, free from overt aerodynamic appendages, and offering impressive grand touring capabilities thanks to a refined and comfortable cabin and excellent ride quality.
Crucially, the Roma imbues genuine Ferrari driving characteristics more convincingly than the Portofino, with which it shares much of its mechanical underpinnings. The 612bhp variant of the front-mounted, twin-turbo 4-liter V8 delivers strong acceleration, the handling is precise, and Ferrari’s signature quick steering feels well-judged rather than nervous. While ride quality is somewhat dependent on tire choice, the Roma excels in most aspects. It represents a sophisticated blend of style and performance, making it a compelling option for those seeking a luxury Ferrari grand tourer.
The Rawest of the Raw: Ferrari F40
Few cars truly embody the term “race car for the road” as profoundly as the Ferrari F40. Sitting within its spartan cabin, with its fuzzy fabric dashboard, visible body sealant, and drawstring door pulls, one feels mere moments away from donning a racing suit and helmet. Despite its fearsome reputation as one of the most raw and unadulterated road cars ever produced, the F40 is surprisingly forgiving unless truly provoked.
The ride quality is remarkably supple, and the steering is light. While the gearshift and a heavy clutch demand deliberate input, the car responds beautifully to a focused driving style. Dropping a gear unleashes the relentless fury of the 2.9-liter twin-turbo V8, delivering a frenzy of power. However, the F40 can be tamed through fine throttle adjustments and quick hands, making it no more challenging than many other supercars of its era. Its square-jawed, brutal styling, motorsport-inspired ethos, and analogue approach to turbocharging grant it arguably the most distinctive character of any Ferrari, a status that is likely to endure for decades to come. The F40 remains a legendary choice for collectible Ferrari cars.
The Perfect Fusion of Supercar and GT: Ferrari F12 Berlinetta
Upon its release, the Ferrari F12 Berlinetta was widely regarded as the zenith of front-engined V12 Ferrari engineering. The only minor kink in the technical makeup of such cars – the single-clutch transmission – was replaced by a swift dual-clutch unit. The V12 engine’s capacity was increased to 6.3 liters, boosting power to 730bhp and intensifying the driving experience to stratospheric levels. The F12 was more compact yet offered a more refined interior than its predecessor, along with a 70kg weight saving. These improvements would be meaningless if they didn’t coalesce into an astonishingly well-rounded, capable, and thrilling car – and they did.
The F12 Berlinetta masterfully amalgamated the supercar and grand tourer, perhaps for the first time in automotive history. It even possessed elements of a hypercar, sharing an engine and, crucially, a vocal signature, with the multi-million dollar LaFerrari. There are few automotive challenges the F12’s nose cannot conquer, provided you’re not transporting more than a single passenger. Our sole persistent criticism? The steering, at times, felt a touch too frenetic for what was, fundamentally, a sizable super GT. The F12 Berlinetta represents a significant chapter in Ferrari V12 grand tourers.
The Hypercar’s Future Defined: Ferrari F80
The Ferrari F80 stands as a singular achievement, a once-in-a-generation machine representing the sixth in a lineage of hypercars that began over four decades ago, and the first of its kind since the LaFerrari in 2012. Significant advancements define this iteration. It features all-wheel drive for the first time in a Ferrari hypercar of this ilk. Furthermore, it employs a V6 engine, not a V12, a departure not seen since the F40.
Initial concerns about a V6 engine being sufficiently “special” for a flagship Ferrari, particularly one priced north of £3 million, were understandable. However, having experienced the F80 firsthand, I can confirm it feels profoundly special – a culmination of Ferrari’s extensive technical prowess, translated into a driver-centric language. Its astonishingly complex systems – including Multimatic dampers, active aerodynamics, powertrain control, and steering – coalesce into a cohesive whole, elevating the driving experience without compromising its integrity. The V6 hybrid powertrain delivers phenomenal performance and response, complemented by a captivating sound within the cabin. In essence, it enthralls as a Ferrari hypercar should, albeit in ways that may have been unexpected. The F80 is a cornerstone of next-generation Ferrari hypercars.
The Modern V12 Dream: Ferrari Daytona SP3
In many ways, the Ferrari Daytona SP3 is a modern reincarnation of the iconic F50. Its extravagant, flowing lines, removable roof, and mid-mounted V12 engine draw striking parallels with the 1995 hypercar. However, nearly three decades of development have propelled its performance and character into an entirely different stratosphere.
As the first mid-engined, non-hybrid V12 Ferrari since the Enzo, the SP3 offers an organic responsiveness. You plant the throttle, manage the wheelspin, and pull through the gears as the V12 screams towards its 9,500 rpm redline – few cars can match its primal adrenaline hit. Thankfully, the SP3 possesses that quintessential Ferrari trait of inspiring confidence, even with its monumental performance and eye-watering price tag. It utilizes an E-Diff and electronic aids borrowed from series production cars. All 599 examples were pre-sold, and it’s easy to see why. The Daytona SP3 represents a pinnacle for limited-edition Ferrari models.
The Hybrid Benchmark: Ferrari LaFerrari
The Ferrari LaFerrari was tasked with succeeding the Enzo, a formidable challenge, especially considering the F80’s significantly different approach to hypercar design. With the benefit of hindsight, and notwithstanding its hybrid innovation, the LaFerrari represented a more traditional Ferrari flagship. It boasted a bloodcurdling 6.3-liter V12 engine, was rear-wheel-drive, and featured sculptural, classically beautiful bodywork rather than an aerodynamic festival.
What truly defined the LaFerrari’s brilliance was its improvement upon its predecessor, the Enzo. The Enzo, an early 2000s hypercar, featured a capricious single-clutch automated manual transmission, was raw and unrefined, and demanded a great deal from its driver. The LaFerrari, in contrast, was more approachable and usable. Its dual-clutch transmission was obedient and fast, and its powertrain offered tractable performance across a broad range. The interior quality was higher, making it more of a luxury item and more comfortable on the road. It was not an edgy car; many described it, in the most complimentary sense, as feeling like a large V12-engined 458. Yet, it retained a profoundly special aura. The LaFerrari remains a landmark in Ferrari hybrid hypercar development.
The Open-Top V12 Symphony: Ferrari 812 GTS
The Ferrari 812 Berlinetta could, perhaps uncharitably, be described as an iteration and development of the F12, rather than the evolutionary leap its predecessor represented from the 599. However, iteration on excellence invariably breeds excellence, and this was certainly true of the 812 Superfast coupe. The introduction of the convertible-roofed GTS added a new dimension to this excellence.
Beyond bestowing a touch of elegance upon the already aggressive 812, removing the roof brings you closer to a V12 concerto that arguably knows no peer. While the SP3 offers a comparable experience, the successor 12 Cilindri Spider saw a reduction in the V12’s ferocity. The most compelling aspect, particularly for driving enthusiasts, was that removing the fixed roof resulted in barely perceptible compromise in rigidity, and therefore, the car’s dynamics. It only enhanced the 812 experience, which is unequivocally a positive. An interesting note for prospective buyers is that the GTS arrived late in the 812’s production life, making it relatively rare and contributing to its sustained market value in the region of £300,000 on the used market. The 812 GTS exemplifies the allure of Ferrari V12 convertibles.
This journey through Maranello’s finest represents a decade of profound engagement with these automotive titans. Each model, in its own unique way, pushes the boundaries of what is possible, cementing Ferrari’s position at the apex of the automotive world.
Ready to experience the thrill of a Ferrari for yourself? Explore our current inventory of exceptional pre-owned Ferrari models or contact our specialist team to discuss bespoke acquisition services and discover your own piece of automotive artistry.
