Ferrari
California
Owner report available
Ferrari
Roma
Owner report available
Ferrari California vs Ferrari Roma
The short answer
Based on available data, the Ferrari Roma comes out ahead of the Ferrari California 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
California
Overall
Sentiment is sharply divided and highly contextual. Among long-term owners and those who have purchased used examples, the California (particularly the later T model) is frequently praised as a reliable, practical, and enjoyable entry point into Ferrari ownership, offering a comfortable grand touring experience, strong performance, and relative ease of maintenance compared to older models. However, a very frequent and dominant theme in broader discussions is its negative perception as the "budget" or "entry-level" Ferrari, often dismissed as a "wife's car" or "chick's car" lacking the brand's traditional mid-engine, V12 purity.
Best version to buy
California T (2014-2017): The turbocharged model is recurrently mentioned as the preferred version, cited for being "very pretty," having strong performance, and improved dynamics. The Handling Speciale package is noted for addressing early criticisms of a soft suspension and slow steering, making it firmer and more responsive.
Known issues
- Folding hardtop mechanism problems: sensors and hydraulic components can become problematic with age or lack of use, potentially requiring expensive repairs. Frequency: recurrent.
- DCT (Dual-Clutch Transmission) reliability concerns: early cars can experience mechatronics or speed sensor failures; costly to repair. Frequency: recurrent.
- General depreciation and perception: not considered a "full-blown Ferrari" by some, leading to weaker residual values and social stigma among enthusiasts. Frequency: very frequent.
Roma
Overall
Mixed sentiment with a clear distinction between its intended role and execution. The Roma is consistently described as a front-engined Grand Tourer designed for long-distance comfort and daily usability, praised for its beautiful design, comfortable and well-insulated cabin for normal driving, and a powerful twin-turbo V8 engine. It is positioned as a more civilized, gentleman's alternative to mid-engine Ferrari sports cars, suitable for those wanting a Ferrari badge without extreme harshness.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to designate a specific trim or version as "best." Discussions focus on the model generically, with some noting the coupe was succeeded by the Roma Spider and then the Amalfi.
Known issues
- Infotainment system lag and poor quality: very slow response, outdated UI likened to a first-generation iPad, specific mention of slow 360-degree camera activation. Frequency: recurrent.
- Suspension/Driving character identity crisis: suspension described as too soft for a Ferrari sports car yet handling is too darty for a relaxed Grand Tourer. Frequency: isolated.
- Initial depreciation: significant loss in value when trading in a Roma for a newer model (e.g., Roma Spider), noted as "devastating." Frequency: isolated.
The verdict
The Ferrari Roma is the better choice for most buyers.
It has more power on its best-equipped version than the Ferrari California, based on the data above. If efficiency matters more to you than outright power, the Ferrari California is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Ferrari California or the Ferrari Roma?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Ferrari California and the Ferrari Roma. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Ferrari California or the Ferrari Roma?
Both seat a similar number of passengers based on our data. The Ferrari California is classed as a Coupe - Cabriolet, the Ferrari Roma as a Cabriolet, which affects cargo space and ride height for family use.
Which has better fuel economy, the Ferrari California or the Ferrari Roma?
The EPA rates the 2018 Ferrari California at 18–19 mpg combined and the 2026 Ferrari Roma at 19 mpg, depending on the version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Ferrari California or the Ferrari Roma?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Ferrari California than the Ferrari Roma. See the known issues comparison above.