Ferrari
458
McLaren
675LT
Ferrari 458 vs McLaren 675LT: 2016 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the McLaren 675LT comes out ahead of the Ferrari 458 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.
675LT
Overall
Sentiment is highly polarized, split between owners who report an exceptional, reliable driving experience and those who report persistent, debilitating reliability issues. The vehicle is universally praised as a phenomenal driving machine, described as a "peak" model for the brand, a "beast," and one of the best-driving cars on the road even years later. Its driving dynamics, lightweight construction, and raw performance are celebrated.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to declare a definitive "best" version. Limited feedback suggests coupes with the roof scoop and louvered fenders are the most sought-after configurations for collectibility.
Known issues
- ⚠Persistent electronic system failures: includes traction control errors, TPMS faults, ABS faults, power window malfunctions (can prevent door operation), key recognition failures, driver display and infotainment screen freezes, and complet…
- ⚠Hydraulic suspension accumulator failures: components wear out, typically every 1-4 years depending on use, causing PCC errors and preventing suspension mode changes. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Infotainment (IRIS) touchscreen failure: screen becomes unresponsive or fails; replacement is costly ($2,000-$4,000 USD). Frequency: recurrent.
The verdict
The McLaren 675LT is the better choice for most buyers.
It has stronger reliability sentiment in owner reports than the Ferrari 458, based on the data above. If the specific known issues on the McLaren 675LT are a dealbreaker, the Ferrari 458 is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Ferrari 458 or the McLaren 675LT?
Owner reports lean more positive on reliability for the McLaren 675LT than the Ferrari 458. See the known issues comparison above for the specific concerns owners report on each.
Which is better for families, the Ferrari 458 or the McLaren 675LT?
Both seat a similar number of passengers based on our data. The Ferrari 458 is classed as a Cabriolet, the McLaren 675LT as a Roadster, which affects cargo space and ride height for family use.
Which has better fuel economy, the Ferrari 458 or the McLaren 675LT?
The McLaren 675LT is more fuel-efficient on paper: 11.7 L/100km combined versus 11.8 L/100km for the Ferrari 458, based on the best-equipped catalogued version of each.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Ferrari 458 or the McLaren 675LT?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the McLaren 675LT than the Ferrari 458. See the known issues comparison above.