Ferrari
458
Ferrari
Testarossa
Ferrari 458 vs Ferrari Testarossa: 2013 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the Ferrari 458 comes out ahead of the Ferrari Testarossa on fuel economy and 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.
Testarossa
Overall
Sentiment is sharply divided by generation. For the classic 1984-1996 Testarossa (including 512 TR and F512M variants), sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, characterized by deep nostalgia, iconic status, and emotional appeal. It is celebrated as a symbol of 1980s excess, a Wall Street legend, and a childhood dream car, with ownership described as a 40-year dream come true.
Best version to buy
For the classic lineage, the original 1984-1991 Testarossa is specifically mentioned as the version that "stole my heart," valued for its pure, iconic form over the later 512 TR and F512M updates. One owner explicitly states a preference for their 1990 Testarossa over the M/TR variants, emphasizing emotional connection.
Known issues
- ⚠**Classic Testarossa (1984-1996):** Cumbersome driving dynamics: described as a "30 year old GT car" that is quite cumbersome to drive compared to more nimble contemporaries. Frequency: isolated.
- ⚠Parts availability concerns: cited as a reason to refrain from purchasing today, as getting parts is described as a "daunting task." Frequency: isolated.
- ⚠Passenger side mirror uselessness: the passenger mirror is noted as being hidden by the A-pillar and cannot actually be seen by the driver. 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 Testarossa, based on the data above. If power matters more to you than running costs, the Ferrari Testarossa is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Ferrari 458 or the Ferrari Testarossa?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Ferrari 458 and the Ferrari Testarossa. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Ferrari 458 or the Ferrari Testarossa?
Both seat a similar number of passengers based on our data. The Ferrari 458 is classed as a Cabriolet, the Ferrari Testarossa as a Coupe, which affects cargo space and ride height for family use.
Which has better fuel economy, the Ferrari 458 or the Ferrari Testarossa?
The Ferrari 458 is more fuel-efficient on paper: 11.8 L/100km combined versus 15.6 L/100km for the Ferrari Testarossa, based on the best-equipped catalogued version of each.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Ferrari 458 or the Ferrari Testarossa?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but reliability signals above are the closest proxy: fewer reported issues generally means lower repair costs over time.