The corporate landscape of Los Angeles is shifting as Steffy Forrester makes a desperate and calculated move to reclaim the dominance of Forrester Creations. In a move that has stunned the boardroom, Steffy is reportedly putting immense pressure on Eric Forrester to return to the company full-time and, more shockingly, to completely abandon his support for Katie Logan’s new business venture. Steffy believes that the family legacy is being diluted by Eric’s distractions and that the Logans are slowly siphoning off the prestige that belongs solely to the Forresters.
This “Biggest Bombshell” highlights the growing rift between the two families as Steffy aims to restore the “gold standard” of the brand. The psychological tension between grandfather and granddaughter is palpable, as Eric values his newfound independence and his creative collaboration with Katie. Steffy, however, sees this as a betrayal of the bloodline. She is using every emotional lever at her disposal, reminding Eric of the history they built together and the threats posed by their rivals.
If Eric gives in to Steffy’s demands, it could mean the end of his relationship with Katie and a total declaration of war against the Logan family. The stakes involve millions of dollars in market share and the very soul of the company’s creative direction. As the pressure mounts, Eric is forced to choose between his creative freedom and his family’s demands for total loyalty.
Maranello’s Crown Jewels: A Decade of Driving Ferrari’s Finest Road Cars
As a seasoned automotive professional with a decade immersed in the high-octane world of performance vehicles, few brands ignite the passion quite like Ferrari. Maranello’s hallowed halls have consistently churned out automotive artistry, vehicles that transcend mere transportation to become objects of desire and engineering marvels. The challenge, as always, lies in distilling this rich tapestry of motoring excellence into a definitive selection. Over the years, my colleagues and I at [Industry Publication Name] have had the distinct privilege of piloting an extensive array of Ferrari’s road-going masterpieces, from the visceral thrills of the 458 Speciale to the ground-breaking innovations of the 296 Speciale and the raw, untamed spirit of the legendary F40. This compilation represents not just a list, but a curated chronicle of the best Ferraris we’ve experienced, reflecting a decade of driving, testing, and appreciating these Italian icons.
The sheer volume of breathtaking machines Maranello has gifted the world makes pinpointing the absolute best a formidable task. Ferrari has masterfully navigated the automotive landscape, producing legendary Grand Tourers, sublime supercars, and, more recently, even venturing into the burgeoning SUV segment with the Purosangue. For the purposes of this list, our focus remains steadfastly on the cars that have defined driving exhilaration on traditional roads, eschewing the marque’s more utilitarian ventures. We’ve delved deep into the heart of what makes a Ferrari truly exceptional, considering not only raw power and lap times but also the intangible essence of the driving experience – the communication, the emotion, and the sheer, unadulterated joy of piloting a Maranello creation.
This selection is informed by countless hours behind the wheel, from exhilarating track days to serene cross-country expeditions. We’ve witnessed firsthand the evolution of Ferrari’s engineering prowess, the relentless pursuit of perfection, and the unwavering commitment to delivering vehicles that stir the soul. From the sonic symphony of a naturally aspirated V12 to the brutal efficiency of a twin-turbocharged V8, each vehicle on this list represents a pinnacle of automotive achievement, a testament to the enduring legacy of Enzo Ferrari’s vision.
The Pinnacle of Performance: Unveiling Our Top Ferrari Selections
The conversation surrounding the best Ferrari road cars inevitably begins with the most iconic and coveted models. These are the vehicles that have captured the imaginations of enthusiasts worldwide, setting benchmarks for performance, design, and driver engagement.
Ferrari 458 Speciale: A Symphony of Naturally Aspirated V8 Brilliance
The Ferrari 458 Speciale stands as a towering achievement in the lineage of naturally aspirated V8 Ferraris, a breed that many enthusiasts lament the passing of. While modern turbocharged engines boast impressive headline figures, the Speciale’s 4.5-liter V8 delivered something far more profound: an intoxicating blend of accessible power and an unparalleled acoustic experience. With 597 horsepower on tap, translating to an astounding 133 horsepower per liter, the numbers alone don’t tell the whole story. The true magic lay in its willingness to rev to a glorious 9,000 rpm, accompanied by a soundtrack that would make an opera singer weep.
Beyond the engine’s visceral appeal, Ferrari’s obsessive dedication to weight reduction – the Speciale tipping the scales 90 kg lighter than its standard 458 counterpart – and the meticulous integration of cutting-edge technology ensured the chassis was the true star. It’s a fast, focused, and unashamedly manic machine that delivers an enthralling experience. In fact, many of us at [Industry Publication Name] consider the 458 Speciale to be the pinnacle of mid-engined supercar design, a potential candidate for the greatest supercar of all time. Its blend of analog feel and modern dynamics offers a driving experience that is both exhilarating and deeply rewarding.
Ferrari F50: The V12 Hypercar Dream Realized
Following in the tire tracks of the legendary F40 was no small feat, but the Ferrari F50 rose to the challenge with audacious brilliance. Maranello’s decision to harness a Formula 1-derived, naturally aspirated V12 engine within a carbon-fiber chassis and an open-top body resulted in a road car that, whisper it, might even surpass its illustrious predecessor in terms of sheer emotional connection. While some contemporary reviews suggested a softer, less defined character compared to the F40, our experiences paint a different picture.
The sheer responsiveness and reach of its 4.7-liter V12 are nothing short of sublime. As a stressed member of the chassis, the engine’s potent vibrations permeate the cabin from the moment you ignite it. This intensity fuels an exhilarating commitment to the drive, even when navigating challenging B-roads in a carbon-bodied, V12 Ferrari hypercar. The F50 gracefully handles every demand placed upon it, communicating through wonderfully precise steering and a powertrain that remains one of the most sensational ever fitted to a road car. It’s a visceral, demanding, and ultimately incredibly rewarding experience.
Ferrari 12 Cilindri: A Bold Celebration of the V12 Heartbeat
The Ferrari 12 Cilindri arrives as the successor to the esteemed 812 Superfast, tasked with the monumental challenge of celebrating the V12 engine itself in an era increasingly dominated by electrification. While its bold, Daytona-inspired design initially divided opinion, the commitment to retaining a large-displacement, naturally aspirated V12 engine in 2024 has proven to be a masterstroke.
Although our initial drives revealed a slight reduction in the aural drama compared to its predecessor, the V12 remains an engineering tour de force. While peak torque sees a modest dip against the 812 Superfast, the increased 819 horsepower output aligns it with the exceptional 812 Competizione, and its stratospheric redline still crests an astonishing 9,500 rpm. The hallmark hyperactive controls persist, yet the 12 Cilindri presents itself as a more refined GT than its predecessors. It offers a greater sense of predictability at the limit and exceptional comfort for extended journeys, truly embodying the modern super GT ethos. For those seeking new Ferrari models that champion traditional V12 power, the 12 Cilindri is a compelling proposition.
Ferrari 296 Speciale: Electrifying the Supercar Formula
The introduction of a downsized engine and a potent plug-in hybrid system might not have been the immediate expectation for a model bearing the “Speciale” badge, yet the Ferrari 296 Speciale is an undeniably astonishing piece of engineering. When you plant the throttle, the acceleration is ferocious, augmented by a wailing V6 note that, remarkably, possesses a more engaging tone than the 488 Pista’s twin-turbo V8. The car’s mass seems to dissipate with the first turn of the wheel, exuding a fluidity and lightness of touch that has become the hallmark of modern Ferraris. If this is the future of the supercar, then the future is exceptionally bright.
With a colossal 868 horsepower, the 296 Speciale unequivocally eclipses the Pista in sheer output. However, it’s the nature of its power delivery that truly imprints itself on the driver’s memory. The electric motor seamlessly augments the 3-liter twin-turbo V6, creating the illusion of a much larger displacement engine. This instant torque allows for unparalleled driving precision, offering a laser-guided feel without becoming nervous. The ingeniously designed chassis electronics cater to drivers of all skill levels, delivering immense rewards. Ferrari’s emphasis on driver feel and exhilaration, rather than solely focusing on lap times and g-forces, is palpable. This is a Maranello great in the making, a testament to their forward-thinking approach to performance cars.
Ferrari 812 Competizione: Unleashing Unadulterated V12 Fury
A recurring theme in contemporary Ferrari road cars is their staggeringly potent performance. While Ferraris have always been swift, modern iterations now push into the realm of six, seven, and even eight hundred horsepower, demanding nerves of steel to fully exploit their capabilities. No car delivers this exhilarating onslaught quite like the Ferrari 812 Competizione.
If the 812 Superfast straddled the line between GT and supercar, the Competizione firmly plants its flag in the supercar domain. With 819 horsepower and a piercing 9,500 rpm redline, it is monumentally, brain-scramblingly fast. The first time you unleash all of its horses in second or third gear, you’ll find yourself uttering expletives that would make a seasoned sailor blush. Taking the 812’s aerodynamic package to extreme new heights with its sculpted bodywork, aggressive flicks, and splitters, the Competizione asserts its formidable character before you even turn the wheel. Complementing this is a new independent rear-wheel-steering system designed to harness its prodigious power, coupled with revised chassis electronics. The result is a scintillating yet organically connected driving experience unlike any other. For those seeking the ultimate V12 Ferrari, the Competizione is a compelling choice.
Ferrari 430 Scuderia: The Track-Focused V8 Exhilarator
The Ferrari 430 Scuderia emerged as Maranello’s triumphant sophomore effort in the “road racer special” category, following in the footsteps of the 360 Challenge Stradale, which arguably helped define the genre in 2003 alongside the 996-generation Porsche 911 GT3 RS. By 2007, the year of the Scuderia’s introduction, Ferrari was at the vanguard of technical innovation and performance enhancement. The 4.3-liter F136 V8 powerplant delivered a formidable 503 horsepower to the Scuderia’s driver – not significantly less than the V12 found in the 575M GT just a couple of years prior. This power, however, arrived no sooner than 8,500 rpm, a characteristic of the pre-turbocharging era.
This era also predated the widespread adoption of dual-clutch transmissions. The Scuderia, however, featured one of the fastest iterations of Ferrari’s ‘F1’ single-clutch gearbox, making it a superb companion for enthusiastic road or track driving, a world away from the more capricious original F1 gearbox found in the F355. The Scuderia also incorporated Ferrari’s E-Diff, adaptive dampers, and F1-Track traction control system, working in concert to enhance performance rather than merely diminishing power at the first hint of slip. Despite the increasing prevalence of sophisticated electronic aids, the 430 Scuderia remained one of Maranello’s greatest thrillers – technically astonishing, increasingly capable, yet viscerally thrilling, all wrapped in the timeless beauty of Pininfarina design. It’s a prime example of a used Ferrari for sale that still delivers immense driver engagement.
Ferrari 550 Maranello: The Return of the Front-Engined V12 GT Masterpiece
Echoing the spirit of the 456 that preceded it, the Ferrari 550 Maranello was frequently compared to the legendary Daytona. This comparison felt even more apt with the later car. Its shark-like styling, perhaps not fully appreciated at the time of its release, possessed the same sharp, predatory nose as the 365 GTB/4. Like the Daytona, the 550 was a purist’s two-seater, eschewing the 456’s more accommodating four-seat configuration.
However, the 550 Maranello wasn’t merely a spiritual successor; it served as an effective replacement for the Testarossa-derived 512M. Next to that car, it was a revelation, offering a significant leap forward in modernity and accessible handling characteristics, largely thanks to its front-engined layout. The transaxle arrangement ensured ideal weight distribution, and the 478 horsepower, 5.5-liter V12 provided considerable thrust. It was a fabulous super GT, even making its mark in motorsport with numerous privateer entries in GT series worldwide and a GTS class win at Le Mans in 2003 with Prodrive. This is a classic Ferrari that continues to command respect and admiration.
Ferrari Roma: Modern Elegance Meets Classic Driving Dynamics
Ferrari’s previous front-engined V8 models, the California and Portofino, while competent, never quite captured the public’s imagination in the way enthusiasts hoped. The attractive and accomplished Roma, however, demonstrates that the issue wasn’t the formula, but rather the execution. It represents what those earlier cars perhaps should have been: classically beautiful with subtle, flowing curves rather than Ferrari’s more recent aggressive styling cues, devoid of overt aerodynamic addenda. Its impressive grand touring capabilities are complemented by a restrained, comfortable cabin and an excellent ride quality.
Crucially, the Roma integrates genuine Ferrari driving characteristics more convincingly than the Portofino, with which it shares much of its underpinnings. The 612 horsepower variant of the front-mounted, twin-turbo 4-liter V8 delivers potent acceleration, the handling is precise, and Ferrari’s signature quick steering feels composed rather than nervous. While ride quality can be tire-dependent (the Pirelli option proved superior in our testing), the Roma excels far more than it falters. It’s a strong contender for those seeking a luxury sports car with a timeless aesthetic and engaging dynamics.
Ferrari F40: The Uncompromising Hypercar Icon
Few cars truly embody the term “race car for the road” as profoundly as the Ferrari F40. Stepping into its spartan cabin, adorned with a fuzzy fabric dashboard, visible green body sealant, and simple drawstring door pulls, one feels a mere helmet and racing suit away from being an IMSA driver. Despite its fearsome reputation as one of the most raw and unadulterated road cars ever produced, the F40 is surprisingly approachable, only truly baring its fangs when provoked.
The ride quality is remarkably supple, and the steering is light. While the gearshift and heavy clutch demand a deliberate approach, the F40 responds beautifully to a measured driving style. Dropping a gear unleashes the 2.9-liter twin-turbo V8, unleashing a relentless frenzy of power. However, the F40 can be tamed with fine throttle adjustments and quick hands, proving no more taxing than many contemporary supercars in this regard. Its square-jawed, brutal styling, motorsport-derived ethos, and analog approach to turbocharging endow it with arguably the most distinctive character of any Ferrari – a trait that is likely to endure for generations to come. It remains a benchmark for affordable supercars for collectors willing to embrace its raw nature.
Ferrari F12 Berlinetta: The Definitive V12 Grand Tourer
At its launch, the Ferrari F12 Berlinetta was widely perceived as the zenith of front-engined V12 Ferrari perfection. The single-clutch transmission, a lingering kink in such cars, was replaced by a swift dual-clutch unit. The V12’s displacement grew to 6.3 liters, power surged to 730 horsepower, and the intensity ascended to stratospheric levels. The F12 was more compact and featured a more refined interior than its predecessor, while also shedding 70 kg. Crucially, none of this would matter if these advancements didn’t coalesce into an astonishingly rounded, capable, yet thrilling car – but they did.
In the F12, the supercar and grand tourer were, perhaps for the first time, perfectly amalgamated. There are even elements of hypercar in its DNA, given that, in basic terms, it shared an engine – and crucially, a vocal signature – with the seven-figure LaFerrari. There’s little you can’t tackle with an F12’s nose pointed towards it, provided you’re not carrying more than a single passenger. Our only persistent criticism? The steering could feel a touch too frenetic for what was still a sizable super GT, though this is a minor quibble in an otherwise spectacular package. It exemplifies high-performance GT cars that blur the lines between ultimate road car and track-day weapon.
Ferrari F80: The Future of the Hypercar, Defined
The Ferrari F80 represents a once-in-a-generation machine, the sixth in a lineage of hypercars that began over 40 years ago, and the first of its kind since the LaFerrari in 2012. Much has changed. It channels power to all four wheels for the first time in a Ferrari of this caliber. It employs a V6 engine, not a V12, a departure not seen since the F40. Concerns were raised about whether a V6 could possess sufficient “specialness” for a flagship Ferrari costing upwards of £3 million. Having now driven the F80 extensively, we can unequivocally confirm its extraordinary nature – a culmination of all of Ferrari’s technical acumen, transcribed into a driver’s dialect.
All its astonishingly complex systems – the Multimatic dampers, active aerodynamics, powertrain control, and steering – integrate seamlessly into a cohesive whole, elevating the driving experience without compromising its purity. The V6 hybrid powertrain delivers phenomenal performance and response, alongside a captivating acoustic experience within the cabin. In essence, it enthralls as a Ferrari hypercar should, albeit in ways that have redefined our expectations for next-generation supercars.
Ferrari Daytona SP3: A Modern Tribute to V12 Purity
In many respects, the Ferrari Daytona SP3 is a modern reincarnation of the iconic F50. With its extravagant, swooping lines, removable roof, and mid-mounted V12, it shares more parallels with the 1995 hypercar than any other. However, the driving experience transcends these visual similarities. Nearly three decades of development have propelled its performance and character into an entirely new stratosphere, although outright driver involvement is, admittedly, a different matter altogether.
As the first mid-engined, non-hybrid V12 Ferrari since the Enzo, the SP3 offers an organic feel to its responses. You plant the throttle, manage the wheelspin, and pull gear after gear as the V12 shrieks towards its 9,500 rpm redline. Few cars can match its primal, adrenaline-inducing hit. Thankfully, the SP3 possesses that typical Ferrari trait of inspiring confidence despite its monumental performance and eye-watering value, incorporating an E-Diff and electronic aids borrowed from its series-production cars. All 599 examples are already spoken for, a testament to its desirability. It stands as a pinnacle of limited edition Ferraris.
Ferrari LaFerrari: The Electrified Flagship Redefined
The LaFerrari was the car tasked with succeeding the F80, a formidable challenge given the F80’s fundamentally different approach to the flagship hypercar concept. With hindsight, and hybrid innovation notwithstanding, the LaFerrari was a more traditional Ferrari flagship. It boasted a bloodcurdling 6.3-liter V12 engine, rear-wheel drive, and sculptural, traditionally beautiful bodywork, rather than being an aerodynamic extravagance.
What truly defined the brilliance of the LaFerrari 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, conversely, was more approachable and usable. Its dual-clutch transmission was obedient and swift, and its powertrain tractable with a broad range of performance. Interior quality was elevated, making it more of a luxury item and more comfortable on the road. It wasn’t an edgy car; many described it, in a wholly complimentary sense, as feeling like a large, V12-engined 458. Yet, it retained an undeniable sense of occasion and specialness. It’s a benchmark for hybrid hypercars.
Ferrari 812 GTS: The Open-Top V12 Grand Tourer Experience
The Ferrari 812 could be uncharitably described as an iterative development of the F12, not the evolutionary leap that its predecessor represented over the 599. However, iteration on excellence invariably breeds excellence, and that’s precisely what occurred with the 812 Superfast coupe. The introduction of the convertible-roofed GTS added a new dimension to this excellence.
Beyond bestowing a touch of elegance onto the already aggressive 812, lopping off the roof brings you closer to a V12 concerto that arguably knows no peer – unless you’re fortunate enough to be aboard an SP3 special. Certainly, it surpasses the experience offered by the 812 GTS’s successor, the 12 Cilindri Spider, which had its fury somewhat toned down. The most significant benefit, particularly for those seeking driving thrills, was that removing the fixed roof resulted in barely perceptible compromise in terms of rigidity and, consequently, the car’s dynamics. It only enhanced the 812 experience, which can only be a positive. An interesting note for prospective buyers is that the GTS arrived late in the 812’s production cycle, meaning it is relatively rare. This might explain why they still command prices in the region of £300,000 on the used market, making it a desirable Ferrari convertible for those seeking exclusivity and performance.
The Enduring Allure of Maranello
This curated selection of Maranello’s finest represents a decade of dedicated evaluation, offering a glimpse into the automotive artistry that defines Ferrari. From the analogue purity of the F40 to the cutting-edge hybrid technology of the F80 and 296 Speciale, these machines embody the brand’s relentless pursuit of perfection. Each Ferrari road car on this list offers a unique and unforgettable driving experience, a testament to the enduring passion and engineering prowess that has made Ferrari a legend.
For those who dream of owning a piece of this extraordinary legacy, whether it’s a classic V12 GT or a modern hybrid supercar, the journey begins with research and informed decision-making. Explore the available new and used Ferrari models and discover the machine that speaks to your soul. We invite you to delve deeper into the world of these magnificent automobiles and perhaps, one day, experience the magic of a Ferrari for yourself.
