Ferrari
458
Ferrari
599
Ferrari 458 vs Ferrari 599: 2013 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the Ferrari 599 comes out ahead of the Ferrari 458 on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
458
Overall
Overwhelmingly positive sentiment, with the 458 Italia widely regarded as a modern classic and one of the most desirable modern Ferraris. The consensus among owners and enthusiasts is that it represents a high point for the brand, celebrated for its naturally aspirated 4.5L V8 engine, which is praised for its intoxicating sound, high-revving character (up to 9,000 RPM), and exceptional reliability for a high-performance exotic. The driving experience is described as exhilarating, with sharp, nimble handling and a sense of special occasion.
Best version to buy
458 Speciale: The track-focused variant is mentioned as the ultimate, most collectible version. However, for most buyers, the standard 458 Italia is highly recommended.
Known issues
- ⚠Dual-clutch transmission (DCT) concerns: Isolated reports of speed sensor and solenoid problems; described as field-repairable and not typically catastrophic.
- ⚠Interior quality and aging: Sticky buttons, loose headliners, and general wear in older, higher-mileage examples (e.g., 2010-2012 models).
- ⚠Steering feel: Described by some as overly light and lacking in feedback, especially at high speeds, making it difficult to sense front-end grip. Frequency: isolated.
599
Overall
Owner sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with the 599 GTB Fiorano and its GTO variant celebrated as a highly desirable, reliable, and sonically magnificent front-engined V12 grand tourer. The vehicle is consistently praised for its beautiful engine noise, considered one of the best-sounding cars on the road, and for its surprising reliability for a Ferrari, with reports of trouble-free long-term use. The chassis is noted as a significant step forward from its predecessor, the 575.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to declare a definitive "best" version. The 599 GTO is repeatedly mentioned as a special, rare, and highly desirable variant.
Known issues
- ⚠Immobilizer/starting issues: engine cranks but won't start, error codes cannot be cleared, potentially requiring dealer intervention. Frequency: isolated.
- ⚠F1 transmission clutch wear: high wear rate, especially in stop-and-go traffic; replacement cost approximately $3,000 plus labor. Frequency: recurrent (mentioned in context of similar-era Ferrari/Maserati F1 systems).
- ⚠Suspension component wear: rear shock absorbers developing slow leaks. Frequency: isolated.
The verdict
The Ferrari 599 is the better choice for most buyers.
It has more power on its best-equipped version than the Ferrari 458, based on the data above. If efficiency matters more to you than outright power, the Ferrari 458 is worth a closer look instead.
Explore further
Not sure which one fits you?
Answer a few questions and get a personalized recommendation.
Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Ferrari 458 or the Ferrari 599?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Ferrari 458 and the Ferrari 599. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Ferrari 458 or the Ferrari 599?
Both seat a similar number of passengers based on our data. The Ferrari 458 is classed as a Cabriolet, the Ferrari 599 as a Coupe, which affects cargo space and ride height for family use.
Which has better fuel economy, the Ferrari 458 or the Ferrari 599?
Fuel consumption data is limited for one or both models. Check the specs table above for the figures available on each catalogued version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Ferrari 458 or the Ferrari 599?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Ferrari 599 than the Ferrari 458. See the known issues comparison above.