The week of January 19 to 23, 2026, is set to be one of the most dramatic in the history of the Newman family. In a move that has left the legal community of Genoa City in a frenzy, the police have reportedly arrested Nick Newman alongside his son, Noah. This double arrest is said to be the culmination of the events at the Newman Media Gala and the ongoing investigation into the shooting of Adam. Seeing father and son being led away in handcuffs is a psychological blow to the family’s prestige that Victor may not be able to fix.
The spoilers for next week suggest that the evidence against them is substantial, or at the very least, enough to justify a high-profile detention. Nick’s “Super Bowl of Bad Decisions” has finally caught up to him, and Noah’s “chilling words” and subsequent action have led him into a legal nightmare. The family must now decide where their loyalties lie—with the victim, Adam, or with the perpetrators, Nick and Noah. The rift this creates within the family is a chasm that may never be bridged.
As they sit in jail cells, father and son are forced to confront the reality of their actions. The week’s episodes will focus on the legal maneuvering of the Newmans and the psychological fallout for Nikki, who is caught between her love for her children and her horror at the violence they have unleashed. This week promises a fast-paced and emotional narrative where the consequences of one night at a Gala will define the future of the Newman legacy for the next year.
Maranello’s Masterpieces: A Decade in the Driver’s Seat of Ferrari’s Finest Road Cars
For ten years, my professional life has been intrinsically linked to the automotive world, and in that time, few marques have ignited the passion and commanded the respect quite like Ferrari. The Prancing Horse isn’t just a manufacturer; it’s an institution, a lineage of unparalleled engineering prowess, and a testament to the enduring allure of the automobile as an art form. Picking the “best” Ferraris is akin to selecting a favorite star in a galaxy – an almost impossible task given the sheer brilliance that has consistently emerged from Maranello. Yet, through countless hours behind the wheel, dissecting the nuances of each machine, and absorbing the collective wisdom of the industry, a definitive roster of Maranello’s masterpieces emerges. This isn’t merely a list; it’s a curated journey through automotive history, highlighting the best Ferraris that have defined eras and set benchmarks for performance, beauty, and driving exhilaration.
This exploration focuses on the road-going marvels, the cars that bridge the gap between track dominance and everyday (albeit exceptionally thrilling) usability. While the allure of a track-bred weapon is undeniable, the true magic of Ferrari, for many, lies in its ability to translate that raw intensity into a package that can be appreciated, and indeed, thoroughly enjoyed, on public roads. From the roaring V12s of yesteryear to the sophisticated hybrid powertrains of today, these are the best Ferrari models that have left an indelible mark on my professional journey and on the automotive landscape itself.
Our journey begins with a car that, for many, remains the pinnacle of the supercar ethos: the Ferrari 458 Speciale. While the newer 296 Speciale pushes boundaries with its innovative hybrid powertrain, the 458 Speciale represents a glorious send-off for the naturally aspirated V8 era. Its 4.5-liter engine, a masterpiece of internal combustion, churned out an astounding 597 horsepower, translating to an astonishing 133 horsepower per liter. But numbers, as any seasoned enthusiast knows, only tell part of the story. The true magic of the 458 Speciale lay in its aural symphony, a high-revving crescendo that reached a spine-tingling 9,000 rpm redline. Ferrari’s relentless pursuit of weight reduction, shedding 90 kilograms compared to the standard 458, coupled with meticulously chosen components, ensured that the chassis, rather than just the engine, was the star. The experience was nothing short of manic and enthralling – a fast, focused, and utterly sensational drive that cemented its status as arguably the greatest mid-engined supercar ever produced. For those seeking a pure, unadulterated Ferrari V8 supercar experience, the 458 Speciale remains the benchmark.
Stepping back in time, we encounter the legendary Ferrari F50. Following the icon that was the F40 is no small feat, but Ferrari’s answer was nothing short of audacious. A Formula 1-derived, naturally aspirated V12 engine, encased within a carbon fiber chassis and presented in an open-top body, created a road car that, whisper it, might even eclipse its predecessor in terms of sheer visceral connection. Initial contemporary road tests may have hinted at a softer, less defined character compared to the F40, but my experience, and that of many who have piloted this automotive legend, paints a different picture. The 4.7-liter V12’s reach and responsiveness are sublime, a pulsating entity that permeates the cabin from the moment you ignite the engine. This intensity, this unwavering focus, encourages a level of driver commitment that is both intimidating and deeply rewarding. Piloting a carbon-bodied, V12 Ferrari hypercar down a challenging B-road becomes an act of pure engagement, facilitated by wonderfully communicative steering and one of the most evocative powertrains ever conceived for a road car. The F50 stands as a monumental achievement in the pantheon of best Ferrari hypercars.
The evolution of the front-engined V12 Ferrari is a narrative of continuous refinement and escalating performance. The Ferrari 12 Cilindri emerges as the latest chapter, a bold celebration of the marque’s iconic engine configuration. Replacing the acclaimed 812 Superfast, its design, drawing inspiration from the Daytona, undeniably sparked debate. However, the decision to retain a large-displacement, naturally aspirated V12 in 2024 has been met with widespread acclaim. While the aural drama might be subtly dialed back compared to its predecessor, the V12 itself remains an engineering marvel. A slight reduction in peak torque over the 812 Superfast is more than compensated by an increased output of 819 horsepower, aligning it with the exceptional 812 Competizione, and it still revs to a dizzying 9,500 rpm. The characteristic hyperactive controls remain, but the 12 Cilindri adopts a more refined GT persona, exhibiting enhanced predictability at the limit and excelling in long-distance comfort. It masterfully fulfills the grand touring brief, solidifying its place among the best Ferrari GT cars.
Returning to the mid-engined marvels, the Ferrari 296 Speciale represents a daring yet ultimately triumphant shift in philosophy. The initial apprehension surrounding a downsized engine and a plug-in hybrid system for a car bearing the “Speciale” badge was palpable. However, the reality of this astonishing machine quickly dispelled any doubts. The moment you floor the throttle, the acceleration is ferocious, accompanied by a V6 note that, remarkably, is often more melodious than the twin-turbo V8 of its predecessor, the 488 Pista. The car’s perceived weight dissolves with the first turn of the wheel, showcasing a fluidity and lightness of touch that defines the modern Ferrari driving experience. With a formidable 868 horsepower, the 296 Speciale doesn’t just impress with brute force; it captivates with the seamless augmentation of its 3-liter twin-turbo V6 by an electric motor, creating the illusion of a much larger displacement engine. This instant response allows for an astonishing level of driving precision, a laser-guided feel that is thrilling without being unnervingly twitchy. The sophisticated chassis electronics are a boon to drivers of all skill levels, enhancing the experience without compromising it. Ferrari’s deliberate focus on driver engagement and the palpable thrills it delivers underscore its status as a true Maranello great in the making, offering a glimpse into the future of supercars. For those seeking the latest Ferrari supercar, the 296 Speciale is a compelling proposition.
The Ferrari 812 Competizione stands as a stark reminder of the staggering performance capabilities that modern Ferraris achieve. While Ferraris have always been fast, today’s output figures in the six, seven, and even eight-hundred horsepower range demand a rare breed of driver with nerves of steel. The 812 Competizione amplifies this thrill to an almost unbelievable degree. If the 812 Superfast occupied a liminal space between GT and supercar, the Competizione unequivocally resides in the latter. Its 819 horsepower, coupled with that piercing 9,500 rpm redline, results in a level of acceleration that is nothing short of brain-scrambling. The aggressive aerodynamic package, with its contorted bodywork, flicks, and splitters, asserts its formidable character before you even move. The addition of an independent rear-wheel-steering system, meticulously calibrated with revised chassis electronics, harnesses this immense power with astonishing efficacy. The result is a driving experience that is both scintillating and organically connected, a true benchmark for high-performance Ferrari models.
In the annals of Ferrari’s performance-oriented specials, the Ferrari 430 Scuderia holds a distinguished place. Building upon the foundation laid by the 360 Challenge Stradale, the Scuderia, introduced in 2007, showcased Ferrari’s burgeoning technical prowess and a relentless drive for increased performance. Its 4.3-liter F136 V8 engine delivered a potent 503 horsepower, a figure that rivaled the output of V12 GTs from just a few years prior, and it achieved this without the aid of turbocharging, demanding a spirited approach to its 8,500 rpm peak. This era also marked the final chapters for Ferrari’s single-clutch ‘F1’ gearbox, and the Scuderia’s iteration was among the most rapid and engaging, a far cry from earlier, more recalcitrant automated manuals. The integration of Ferrari’s E-Diff, adaptive dampers, and F1-Track traction control system enhanced performance without merely interfering with driver input. Despite the increasing sophistication of its electronic aids, the 430 Scuderia remained a visceral and thrilling machine, a testament to Pininfarina’s enduring design elegance and Maranello’s commitment to delivering an emotionally charged driving experience. It’s a prime example of a performance Ferrari that delivers raw excitement.
The Ferrari 550 Maranello represents a significant turning point in Ferrari’s front-engined V12 lineage. Often compared to the legendary Daytona, its shark-like styling, perhaps not fully appreciated at its launch, possessed a sharp-nosed aggression that echoed its illustrious predecessor. Unlike the 456, which offered a 2+2 configuration, the 550 was a pure two-seater. However, its role was not that of a traditional GT but rather as a modern successor to the Testarossa-derived 512M. The 550 Maranello was a revelation, offering a blend of modernity and accessible handling characteristics, thanks in no small part to its front-engined layout and transaxle design, which ensured ideal weight distribution. Its 5.5-liter V12 produced a substantial 478 horsepower, making it a formidable super GT. Its appeal extended beyond road use, with numerous privateer entries in GT racing series and a GTS class victory at Le Mans in 2003. The 550 Maranello is a cornerstone for collectors of classic Ferrari models.
The Ferrari Roma masterfully redeems the concept of a front-engined V8 Ferrari, a territory where its predecessors, the California and Portofino, had fallen somewhat short. The Roma’s success lies not in a flawed formula, but in a flawless execution. It exudes a classically beautiful aesthetic, with subtle curves replacing Ferrari’s recent penchant for overtly aggressive shapes, and eschews visible aerodynamic appendages for a cleaner, more timeless design. Its grand touring capabilities are equally impressive, featuring a restrained and comfortable cabin, and a ride quality that prioritizes occupant well-being. Crucially, the Roma seamlessly integrates genuine Ferrari driving dynamics into its elegant package, a feat the Portofino struggled to achieve despite sharing much of its underpinnings. The 612 horsepower variant of the front-mounted, twin-turbo 4-liter V8 delivers potent performance, and the handling is precise, complemented by Ferrari’s signature quick steering that, in this application, feels commendably stable rather than nervous. While ride quality is influenced by tire choice, the Roma consistently delivers a rewarding experience, solidifying its reputation as a stylish Ferrari.
Few cars truly embody the “race car for the road” mantra as vividly as the Ferrari F40. Stepping into its spartan cabin, adorned with fuzzy fabric, visible body sealant, and utilitarian drawstring door pulls, one feels a palpable connection to the world of IMSA racing. Despite its fearsome reputation for raw, unadulterated driving, the F40’s temperament is surprisingly forgiving, refraining from aggression unless truly provoked. The ride quality is remarkably supple, and the steering, while direct, is manageable. The gearshift and clutch require deliberate engagement, but the driving experience is one of nuanced control. Dropping a gear unleashes the relentless fury of the 2.9-liter twin-turbo V8, but fine throttle adjustments and precise steering inputs allow for surprisingly tractable progress. The F40’s iconic square-jawed, brutal styling, its motorsport-derived feel, and its purely analog approach to turbocharging grant it a distinctive character that is unlikely to be replicated. It remains a legendary Ferrari V8 twin-turbo masterpiece.
The Ferrari F12 Berlinetta arrived with the palpable sense of Ferrari achieving V12 front-engined perfection. Addressing the only significant kink in the technical makeup of its predecessors – the single-clutch transmission – Ferrari opted for a lightning-fast dual-clutch unit. The 6.3-liter V12 was enlarged, its power boosted to a staggering 730 horsepower, and the overall intensity was dialed up to stratospheric levels. Despite its increased potency, the F12 was more compact, featured a more refined interior, and shed 70 kilograms. Crucially, these advancements coalesced into an astonishingly rounded and capable, yet thrilling, driving machine. The F12 Berlinetta arguably perfected the amalgamation of supercar and grand tourer, perhaps even venturing into hypercar territory, sharing an engine and, importantly, a vocal signature with the LaFerrari. Its versatility is remarkable; it can tackle almost any driving scenario with aplomb, provided you’re traveling light. The only persistent criticism was a steering that could occasionally feel overly frenetic for such a substantial GT. The F12 Berlinetta remains a standout example of Ferrari V12 performance.
The Ferrari F80 represents a generational leap, the sixth in a lineage of hypercars that stretches back over forty years and the first since the LaFerrari in 2012. It marks significant departures: all-wheel drive for the first time in a Ferrari of this caliber, and a V6 engine, a choice not seen since the F40. The initial trepidation regarding a V6’s suitability for a flagship Ferrari, especially one commanding a price tag exceeding £3 million, was understandable. However, having experienced the F80 firsthand, its “specialness” is undeniable. It is a culmination of Ferrari’s technical expertise, translated into a driver-centric language. The complex systems – Multimatic dampers, active aerodynamics, powertrain control, and steering – harmonize seamlessly, elevating the driving experience without diluting its essence. The V6 hybrid powertrain delivers phenomenal performance and response, further enhanced by a captivating cabin soundscape. The F80 enthralls as a Ferrari hypercar, albeit in ways that challenge established expectations. It is a landmark new Ferrari model.
The Ferrari Daytona SP3 can be viewed as a modern reimagining of the iconic F50. Its extravagant, swooping lines, removable roof, and mid-mounted V12 echo its 1995 predecessor. However, three decades of technological advancement place its performance and character in an entirely different stratosphere, though outright driver involvement is a nuanced consideration. As the first mid-engined, non-hybrid V12 Ferrari since the Enzo, the SP3 offers an organic response. The sensation of planting the throttle, managing wheelspin, and shifting through gears as the V12 screams towards its 9,500 rpm redline delivers an unparalleled primal hit of adrenaline. Thankfully, the SP3 possesses that quintessential Ferrari trait of inspiring confidence, even amidst its monumental performance and eye-watering value, aided by an E-Diff and electronic aids borrowed from series production cars. With all 599 examples already spoken for, its desirability is clear. It’s a collector’s dream for exclusive Ferrari models.
The Ferrari LaFerrari faced the monumental task of succeeding the F80, a challenge made more complex by the F80’s divergence from traditional flagship formulas. In hindsight, and hybrid innovation aside, the LaFerrari was a more conventional Ferrari flagship. It boasted a bloodcurdling 6.3-liter V12 engine, rear-wheel drive, and sculptural, traditionally beautiful bodywork rather than an aero-centric design. Its brilliance lay in its evolution from the Enzo. While the Enzo was an early 2000s hypercar, characterized by a capricious single-clutch automated manual transmission and a raw, unrefined nature that demanded significant driver input, the LaFerrari offered a more approachable and usable experience. The dual-clutch transmission was both obedient and rapid, and the powertrain provided tractable, broad-ranging performance. The interior quality was elevated, creating a more luxurious and comfortable environment. It avoided being an edgy car, often described, in the most complimentary sense, as feeling like a large, V12-engined 458. Yet, it retained an undeniable sense of occasion and profound specialness. It represents a pivotal moment in Ferrari hybrid supercar development.
The Ferrari 812 GTS could be perceived, perhaps unfairly, as an iterative development of the F12 rather than a significant leap forward, a contrast to its predecessor’s advancements over the 599. However, iteration upon 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 already exceptional machine. Beyond bestowing a touch of elegance upon the assertive 812, removing the roof brought the driver closer to a V12 concerto that stands largely unrivaled, save perhaps for the SP3. The most significant advantage, particularly for those seeking driving thrills, was the minimal compromise in rigidity and, consequently, driving dynamics. It merely enhanced the 812 experience. A noteworthy point for prospective buyers is the GTS’s late arrival in the 812’s lifecycle, making it relatively rare and contributing to its continued strong presence in the used market. It remains a highly sought-after convertible Ferrari.
As I look back on a decade immersed in the automotive world, my experiences with these Maranello masterpieces have been nothing short of transformative. Each Ferrari road car on this list represents a pinnacle of automotive engineering and design, a testament to the enduring legacy of Enzo Ferrari. The roar of a V12, the precision of a perfectly balanced chassis, and the sheer emotional connection forged behind the wheel are experiences that transcend mere transportation.
The automotive landscape is perpetually evolving, with new technologies and philosophies constantly reshaping what’s possible. Yet, the core essence of a Ferrari – its passion, its performance, its inimitable spirit – remains an unwavering constant. If you’ve been captivated by the allure of these icons and are contemplating experiencing one for yourself, whether it’s a specific model like the Ferrari 488 Pista or a more classic offering, the journey begins with informed exploration.
We invite you to delve deeper into the world of Ferrari. Explore our comprehensive reviews, compare models, and connect with experts who can guide you through the intricacies of owning a piece of automotive history. Your next unforgettable driving experience awaits.
