Ferrari
458
Ferrari
FF
Ferrari 458 vs Ferrari FF: 2013 Comparison
The short answer
The Ferrari 458 offers fuel economy, while the Ferrari FF excels at power instead. Choose the Ferrari 458 if you prioritize fuel economy in daily driving, or the Ferrari FF if power matters more for your needs. 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.
FF
Overall
Owner sentiment is generally positive, with the FF being celebrated as a uniquely practical and engaging Ferrari. It is frequently described as the "perfect dad Ferrari" or a daily-drivable exotic, praised for its genuine four-seat capacity, thrilling naturally aspirated V12 engine sound, and all-weather capability due to its all-wheel-drive system. The driving experience is described as special and exhilarating, making mundane trips memorable.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to specify a model year or trim as "best." Owner discussions focus on the condition and repair history of individual cars rather than trim differentiation. The critical factor is whether major components (PTU, gearbox, carbon ceramic brakes) have been addressed or rebuilt.
Known issues
- ⚠Power Transfer Unit (PTU) failure: The front gearbox is described as "extremely unreliable" and "the first mechanical part that breaks." It involves a permanently slipping clutch and is a very frequent point of concern.
- ⚠Gearbox reliability: The main gearbox is cited as problematic and expensive to repair, with quotes around $35,000 for replacement. Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠Carbon ceramic brake replacement cost: Extremely high replacement cost cited, approximately $35,000-$45,000 for a set replaced before 35,000 miles. Frequency: isolated.
The verdict
The Ferrari 458 is the better choice for most buyers.
It has better fuel economy on its best-equipped version than the Ferrari FF, based on the data above. If power matters more to you than running costs, the Ferrari FF is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Ferrari 458 or the Ferrari FF?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Ferrari 458 and the Ferrari FF. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Ferrari 458 or the Ferrari FF?
The Ferrari FF seats more passengers than the Ferrari 458 on its catalogued best-equipped version. Body type also differs: the Ferrari 458 is classed as a Cabriolet, the Ferrari FF as a Coupe.
Which has better fuel economy, the Ferrari 458 or the Ferrari FF?
The Ferrari 458 is more fuel-efficient on paper: 11.8 L/100km combined versus 15.4 L/100km for the Ferrari FF, based on the best-equipped catalogued version of each.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Ferrari 458 or the Ferrari FF?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Ferrari FF than the Ferrari 458. See the known issues comparison above.