The return of Zoe Buckingham to Los Angeles has brought with it a secret that will change the lives of several key characters. Zoe has returned not just with her signature style, but with a baby in tow. The “Biggest Bombshell” is the revelation of the baby’s father, whose identity is said to be a “shocking surprise” that no one saw coming. Speculation is rampant—could it be Carter, Zende, or perhaps someone even more controversial like Thomas?
The psychological impact of Zoe’s return is felt most by Carter Walton, who had finally found some semblance of peace after their tumultuous past. Zoe’s arrival disrupts the current social order, as the truth about the baby’s conception and her time away begins to emerge. This storyline explores themes of motherhood, secrets, and the inevitable way the past returns to haunt the present.
The reveal of the father’s identity is expected to occur during a high-profile event, ensuring maximum drama and fallout for everyone involved. As the families of Los Angeles deal with this new addition, Zoe must navigate the complex web of relationships she once left behind, proving that she is still a force to be reckoned with. The mystery father’s reaction to the news will dictate the direction of the Buckingham legacy for years to come.
Maranello’s Finest: A Decade of Driving Ferrari’s Most Iconic Road Cars
For over 75 years, Ferrari has been synonymous with automotive excellence, a nameplate that evokes passion, performance, and unparalleled engineering. The Prancing Horse has a storied history of crafting not just cars, but true masterpieces that blur the lines between art and engineering. As an industry veteran with a decade spent behind the wheel of some of the most coveted machines on the planet, I’ve had the distinct privilege of experiencing the evolution of Ferrari’s road-going legends. It’s a daunting task to distill this illustrious legacy into a definitive list, but through countless miles, track days, and intimate road tests, certain Maranello creations have etched themselves into my memory as the absolute pinnacle of Ferrari’s output. From the raw, unadulterated fury of the F40 to the sophisticated hybrid prowess of the 296 Speciale, this is my curated selection of the best Ferraris – a testament to the enduring allure of these Italian thoroughbreds.
The challenge of selecting the “best” Ferrari road car is akin to choosing a favorite star in the night sky; each possesses a unique brilliance. The sheer volume of legendary models that have rolled out of Maranello is staggering. We’re talking about a heritage rich with boundary-pushing supercars, elegant grand tourers, and now, even a bold foray into the SUV segment with the Purosangue. However, for this exploration, we’ll focus on the cars that have truly captivated my senses and redefined what a performance automobile can be. This list is built on personal experience, a decade of immersing myself in the Ferrari ethos, and an appreciation for the engineering that makes each of these machines so profoundly special. While the Purosangue represents an exciting new chapter, the true soul of Ferrari, for me, has always resided in its lower-slung, more visceral creations.
The modern era of Ferrari performance has seen a remarkable shift, and some of the most captivating machines embody this transition. The Ferrari F80, for instance, represents a bold leap into the future. While some might lament the departure from the V12 symphony, the F80’s hybrid V6 powertrain delivers a performance profile that is nothing short of astonishing. It’s a testament to Ferrari’s ability to innovate and extract staggering power from even smaller displacement engines, seamlessly blending electric augmentation with a combustion engine that still sings. This hypercar, a successor to titans like the LaFerrari, feels like a culmination of all the technical acumen Maranello possesses. Its ability to integrate complex systems—from advanced adaptive dampers to sophisticated aerodynamic elements—into a cohesive and utterly engaging driving experience is what sets it apart. The F80 doesn’t just deliver numbers; it translates its immense capabilities into a language drivers understand, offering thrills without compromise. When I first experienced the F80, it was clear that this was a machine destined for legendary status, pushing the boundaries of what a hypercar could be. The integration of its hybrid powertrain, delivering instant torque and a captivating soundtrack, showcases Ferrari’s forward-thinking approach to performance hybrid cars.
Stepping back slightly, but no less impactful, is the Ferrari 296 Speciale. This car, at the forefront of Ferrari’s hybrid offensive, takes the already remarkable 296 platform and elevates it to an art form. When the initial 296 GTB was unveiled, the idea of a V6-powered Ferrari with a plug-in hybrid system might have raised an eyebrow among purists. However, the 296 Speciale silences any doubters with its ferocious acceleration and a V6 soundtrack that, astonishingly, can be more evocative than some of its V8 predecessors. The immediate impression is one of lightness and agility; the car feels as if it sheds weight the moment you turn the wheel. It embodies the fluid, responsive handling that defines the best modern Ferraris. With a staggering 868 horsepower, the 296 Speciale doesn’t just offer raw output; it’s the nature of its delivery that sears itself into your consciousness. The electric motor acts as a perfect foil to the 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6, creating the illusion of a much larger engine with instant, razor-sharp response. This allows for incredibly precise driving, a sensation of being laser-guided without any hint of nervousness. The sophisticated chassis electronics are designed to reward drivers of all skill levels, a philosophy that truly resonates. Ferrari’s emphasis on how a car feels and the thrills it provides, rather than just focusing on lap times and g-forces, is palpable. The 296 Speciale is unequivocally a future Maranello great, a benchmark for hybrid sports cars and a clear indication of where next-generation Ferrari performance is heading.
For those who still yearn for the pure, unadulterated sonic drama of a naturally aspirated V12, the Ferrari 12 Cilindri emerges as a triumphant celebration of this iconic engine configuration. Succeeding the prodigious 812 Superfast, the 12 Cilindri carries the immense weight of expectation. Its bold, Daytona-inspired styling certainly stirred debate upon its debut, but the decision to retain a large-displacement, naturally aspirated V12 in 2024 was a masterstroke that resonated deeply with enthusiasts. While the aural theatre might be slightly more refined than its predecessor, the V12 itself remains an engineering marvel. Producing a breathtaking 819 horsepower and reaching an incredible 9,500 rpm redline, it’s a powerplant that demands respect and rewards with an intensity that few other engines can match. While peak torque saw a slight reduction compared to the 812 Superfast, the overall performance is firmly in line with the exceptional 812 Competizione. The hallmark hyperactive controls are still present, but the 12 Cilindri leans more towards the grand tourer persona. It’s more predictable at its limit and remarkably comfortable for extended journeys, perfectly embodying the spirit of a modern super GT. The pursuit of new Ferrari V12 models has yielded a car that is as exhilarating as it is refined, a true modern classic for those who cherish the V12 legacy.
In the pantheon of Ferrari legends, the Ferrari 458 Speciale holds a particularly exalted position. It represents the zenith of the naturally aspirated V8 era, a send-off that perfectly encapsulates what made that engine so special. While turbocharging now dominates, the 4.5-liter V8 in the 458 Speciale produces a phenomenal 597 horsepower, translating to an astonishing 133 horsepower per liter. This is not just a number; it’s a testament to an engine that sings a spectacular song and allows drivers to exploit its full potential, revving to a glorious 9,000 rpm. But the Speciale is far more than just its engine. Ferrari’s relentless pursuit of weight reduction—90 kg lighter than a standard 458—and the judicious application of cutting-edge technology and components mean that the chassis is the true star. It’s a car that is fast, focused, and relentlessly enthralling, offering a manic and exhilarating experience. For many, the 458 Speciale stands as the greatest mid-engined supercar ever produced, a benchmark against which all others are judged. Its legacy as a truly exceptional V8 supercar is undeniable.
The conversation about the greatest Ferraris would be incomplete without acknowledging the sheer visceral thrill of the Ferrari 812 Competizione. If the 812 Superfast straddled the line between GT and supercar, the Competizione unequivocally plants its flag in the latter. With a colossal 819 horsepower and that spine-tingling 9,500 rpm redline, it delivers a level of acceleration that is nothing short of mind-bending. The first time you unleash all of its horses in second or third gear, you’ll find yourself uttering expletives of pure astonishment. The Competizione takes the already extreme aero package of the 812 to new heights with its contorted bodywork, intricate flicks, and aggressive splitters, projecting an imposing character before you even turn a wheel. The addition of an independent rear-wheel-steering system and revised chassis electronics work in concert to harness this immense power, resulting in a driving experience that is both scintillating and remarkably organic. It’s a machine that redefines what’s possible in a front-engined V12 performance Ferrari, offering an unfiltered connection to the road and an experience that is truly second to none.
Venturing further back in time, the Ferrari F40 remains an icon, a benchmark for what a “race car for the road” truly means. Sitting in its spartan cabin, with its utilitarian dashboard, visible body sealant, and simple drawstring door pulls, you feel a profound connection to its motorsport DNA. Despite its fearsome reputation, the F40 is surprisingly tractable. The ride is supple, the steering is light, and while the gearshift and clutch demand deliberate action, the car responds beautifully to a focused driving style. Prod the throttle, and the 2.9-liter twin-turbo V8 unleashes a relentless torrent of power, yet it can be managed with fine throttle control and deft hands. It’s no more demanding than many contemporary supercars in this regard. The F40’s brutal, square-jawed styling, its raw, analogue approach to turbocharging, and its uncompromising ethos give it a character that is arguably the most distinctive of any Ferrari. For enthusiasts seeking the purest form of classic Ferrari performance, the F40 is an unparalleled choice.
Following in the F40’s formidable footsteps was the Ferrari F50. The challenge of outdoing such an automotive legend was immense, but Maranello rose to the occasion with a Formula 1-derived, naturally aspirated V12 engine. Housed within a carbon-fiber chassis and an open-top body, the F50 was, for many, an even sweeter road car than its predecessor, a true masterpiece of its time. While some contemporary reviews suggested a softer edge compared to the F40, my experience reveals a different story. The reach and responsiveness of its 4.7-liter V12 are sublime, and as a stressed member of the chassis, it vibrates through the cabin with an intensity that’s utterly captivating. This intensity permeates the entire car, encouraging unwavering commitment despite the intimidation factor of threading a V12 hypercar down a challenging road. The F50 is remarkably composed, offering wonderfully communicative steering and arguably one of the best powertrains ever fitted to a road car. It’s a true V12 Ferrari hypercar that continues to command immense respect and admiration.
The Ferrari 550 Maranello represents a different, yet equally compelling, facet of Ferrari’s engineering prowess. Often compared to the legendary Daytona, the 550 Maranello, with its sharp, shark-like styling, served as an effective and modern replacement for the Testarossa-derived 512M. Its front-engined layout, combined with a transaxle transmission, resulted in ideal weight distribution and accessible handling characteristics that were a revelation. The 478 horsepower 5.5-liter V12 provided ample performance for a super GT, making it a fabulous long-distance companion. Beyond its road manners, the 550 Maranello also made its mark in motorsport, with numerous privateer entries and a GTS class win at Le Mans in 2003. It remains a compelling example of Ferrari’s ability to blend grand touring comfort with exhilarating performance, a sought-after front-engined V12 Ferrari.
The Ferrari Roma represents a successful evolution of Ferrari’s front-engined V8 formula. While previous iterations like the California and Portofino didn’t quite hit the mark, the Roma demonstrates that the concept was sound, but the execution needed refinement. It’s a car that embodies classic Ferrari beauty, with subtle curves and an absence of overt aerodynamic addenda. Its grand touring credentials are unquestionable, featuring a restrained and comfortable cabin with excellent ride comfort. Crucially, the Roma integrates genuine Ferrari driving dynamics more convincingly than its predecessors. The 612 horsepower variant of the 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 delivers potent acceleration, and the handling is precise, complemented by Ferrari’s signature quick steering that avoids feeling nervous. While tire choice can influence the ride, the Roma overwhelmingly delivers on its promise of a stylish, capable, and engaging Ferrari grand tourer.
The Ferrari 812 GTS adds an exhilarating open-top dimension to the already exceptional 812 Superfast. While perhaps not as revolutionary a leap as its predecessor, the iteration on excellence in the 812 formula undoubtedly breeds excellence. The GTS version bestows a certain elegance upon the formidable 812, and removing the roof brings the V12 concerto even closer to the driver, an experience arguably unparalleled outside of the SP3. The beauty of the GTS is that this convertible conversion yields almost imperceptible compromise in terms of rigidity and, therefore, dynamics. It simply enhances the already thrilling 812 experience. The relative rarity of the GTS, having arrived later in the 812’s lifecycle, contributes to its enduring desirability and strong presence in the used Ferrari market.
The Ferrari F12 Berlinetta was, at its launch, considered by many to be the pinnacle of front-engined V12 Ferrari perfection. The single-clutch transmission, a common point of contention in earlier models, was replaced by a snappy dual-clutch unit. The 6.3-liter V12 was uprated to 730 horsepower, catapulting performance into the stratosphere. The F12 was also more compact and lighter than its predecessor, with an improved interior. Crucially, all these elements coalesced into an astonishingly rounded and capable, yet thrilling, car. It masterfully amalgamated the supercar and grand tourer, perhaps for the very first time, even hinting at hypercar levels of performance with its shared engine and vocal signature with the then-new LaFerrari. Its only persistent criticism was a steering that could feel a tad too frenetic for its size. Nonetheless, the F12 Berlinetta remains a landmark achievement in Ferrari V12 performance.
The Ferrari 430 Scuderia stands as a formidable successor to the 360 Challenge Stradale, a car that arguably pioneered the breed of road-racer specials. By its introduction in 2007, Ferrari was at the vanguard of technical innovation and performance enhancement. The 4.3-liter F136 V8 in the Scuderia delivered 503 horsepower, a figure that rivaled V12s of just a few years prior, with its peak power arriving at a thrilling 8,500 rpm, a characteristic of the naturally aspirated era. This was also a time before widespread dual-clutch transmissions, and the Scuderia featured one of the last iterations of Ferrari’s F1 single-clutch gearbox, a rapid and engaging unit. Beyond its powertrain, the Scuderia benefited from Ferrari’s E-Diff, adaptive dampers, and F1-Track traction control, all working in concert to enhance performance. Despite increasing electronic sophistication, the 430 Scuderia remained one of Maranello’s great thrillers—technically astonishing, increasingly capable, visceral, and undeniably beautiful. It’s a prime example of a track-focused Ferrari.
The Ferrari F80 is a remarkable culmination of Ferrari’s engineering prowess, representing a bold new direction for its hypercar lineage. While concerns about a V6 in a flagship Ferrari were understandable, the F80 dispels them with its extraordinary performance and a driving experience that is deeply engaging. The integration of its complex systems, from adaptive dampers to active aerodynamics, creates a cohesive whole that elevates the driving experience without compromising its purity. The V6 hybrid powertrain delivers phenomenal response and a captivating soundtrack, proving that cutting-edge technology can indeed produce the enthralling experience expected of a Ferrari hypercar, even in ways we might not have initially anticipated. This is a testament to the future of automotive innovation.
Each of these Ferraris represents a distinct chapter in the brand’s illustrious history, a testament to its unwavering commitment to performance, passion, and pushing the boundaries of automotive engineering. From the raw emotion of the F40 to the sophisticated hybrid power of the F80, these machines offer an unparalleled driving experience.
If you’ve been captivated by the allure of these Maranello masterpieces and are considering bringing one into your life, or if you simply wish to delve deeper into the world of Ferrari ownership and the intricacies of finding the right Ferrari model, we invite you to connect with our team of specialists. Let us guide you through the passionate journey of acquiring your own piece of automotive legend.
