12 Things About Ferraris You Be Aware Of Know Before Buying One
I still remember the first time I saw a Ferrari zoom past me on the highway – that iconic red blur left me speechless. Owning a Ferrari isn’t just about having a car but about joining an exclusive club with its own rules and expectations.
Before you take the plunge into Ferrari ownership, there are some crucial things you should understand about these Italian masterpieces.
1. The Price Tag Is Just The Beginning
Sticker shock doesn’t end when you leave the dealership. Annual maintenance can easily exceed $7,000 for routine service, while major services might cost upwards of $30,000.
Insurance premiums often rival a mortgage payment, and depreciation hits differently than with ordinary cars. The true cost of Ferrari ownership reveals itself in your annual expenses, not just the purchase price.
2. Waiting Lists Are Real And Long
Ferrari doesn’t simply sell cars to anyone with cash. For limited editions and special models, you’ll need a purchase history and relationship with the dealer.
Some collectors wait years for their dream car. The company carefully selects buyers who will represent the brand well. Building rapport with your local Ferrari dealer isn’t optional – it’s essential for accessing the models you really want.
3. They’re Surprisingly Uncomfortable For Daily Use
Forget cup holders, spacious storage, or easy entry. These machines were built for performance, not practicality. Low ground clearance means speed bumps become strategic puzzles.
The stiff suspension transmits every road imperfection directly to your spine. Cabin noise at highway speeds can be deafening in some models.
Weekend joy rides? Absolutely. Daily commuter? You might want to reconsider that plan.
4. Servicing Requires Planning And Patience
Regular maintenance isn’t a quick oil change at your local garage. Services must be performed by certified Ferrari technicians, often requiring appointments weeks in advance.
Many owners ship their cars to specialized facilities hundreds of miles away. Parts can take months to arrive from Italy.
Smart owners schedule winter maintenance during off-season to ensure their prancing horse is ready when driving weather returns.
5. The Community Is Part Of The Experience
Buying a Ferrari automatically inducts you into a passionate global community. Owners’ clubs organize exclusive track days, rallies, and social gatherings reserved for Ferrari enthusiasts.
These connections often become as valuable as the car itself. Longtime owners generously share wisdom with newcomers.
The Ferrari family extends beyond the vehicle to create lifelong friendships based on shared passion for the prancing horse.
6. They Attract Unwanted Attention
Everyone becomes a photographer when you’re at a stoplight. Strangers will approach with questions and requests for rides or photos. Privacy becomes a luxury of the past.
Parking requires strategic thinking to avoid door dings and vandalism. Some owners report being followed home by car enthusiasts.
The constant attention can transform a simple grocery run into an impromptu car show – charming at first, exhausting eventually.
7. Storage Matters More Than You Think
Proper storage becomes an obsession for Ferrari owners. Humidity-controlled garages protect against corrosion, while battery tenders prevent electrical issues during periods of non-use.
Many owners invest in specialized covers and dehumidifiers. Improper storage can lead to deteriorating rubber components and electrical gremlins.
The cost of proper storage facilities often surprises new owners who hadn’t factored this into their ownership expenses.
8. Driving Skills Need Serious Upgrading
Handling 700+ horsepower requires respect and skill. Many dealers recommend performance driving courses before taking delivery of your new Ferrari.
The throttle response, braking capabilities, and cornering forces exceed anything in normal driving. Ferrari’s own Corso Pilota program teaches owners to safely explore their car’s potential.
Mastering these machines is a journey that continues long after you’ve signed the paperwork.
9. Resale Value Depends On Documentation
Meticulous record-keeping becomes critical when ownership time ends. Every service, every mile, every detail affects future value.
Cars with complete service histories from authorized dealers command premium prices. Original parts, books, tools, and keys significantly impact resale value.
Smart owners keep detailed logs of every interaction with their Ferrari, preserving not just the car but its documented history.
10. Colors Affect Future Saleability
That purple Ferrari might speak to your soul, but traditional colors hold value better. Rosso Corsa red, Giallo Modena yellow, and Nero black consistently attract more buyers when reselling.
Unusual color combinations can extend selling time by months or years. The exception? Extremely limited editions where rarity trumps convention.
Your perfect spec should balance personal expression with market realities unless you plan to keep the car forever.
11. Factory Options Matter More Than Aftermarket
Carbon fiber trim added at the factory might cost triple what an aftermarket shop charges, but it’s worth it. Factory-optioned Ferraris maintain significantly higher values than modified ones.
The Tailor Made program allows extensive personalization while preserving factory authenticity. Future buyers will pay premiums for original factory options.
Resist the urge to customize post-purchase if investment value matters to you.
12. Mileage Philosophy Divides Owners
Ferrari ownership presents a philosophical dilemma: preserve it as an investment or drive it as intended? Some owners meticulously limit annual mileage to maintain value.
Others believe these machines should be exercised regularly. Ferraris that sit too long develop their own problems.
The happiest owners find personal balance between preservation and enjoyment. Remember why you wanted one in the first place.