10 of the most affordable Ferraris available
Not every second-hand Ferrari carries a price tag in the six-figure range. While there are many iconic models from this Italian luxury brand that can cost millions, there are also some surprisingly budget-friendly options. Certain Ferrari models aren’t as popular among collectors, making them more accessible than their highly sought-after counterparts.
With this in mind, we’ve compiled a list of 10 of the most inexpensive Ferraris currently on offer, spanning from vintage classics to nearly new models, illustrating the wide range of what a “cheap Ferrari” can mean for your wallet.
Ferrari Mondial
The Mondial is arguably one of the most underrated Ferraris. Its mid-engine design and wedge-like shape align well with the brand’s aesthetic from 1980 to 1993. Although it doesn’t boast extreme performance, later models can deliver up to 300 horsepower with their smaller V-8 engines.
However, adding a rear seat has severely impacted the Mondial’s appeal among collectors. Despite Ferrari’s efforts to market its various Mondial models, including convertibles, buyers have largely overlooked this four-seater for more traditional options. Because of its abundant availability and similar maintenance costs to other Ferraris, the Mondial remains the least expensive Ferrari you can find.
- Engine type: 3.0-liter V-8 (Mondial 8, Mondial QV) / 3.2-liter V-8 (Mondial 3.2) / 3.4-liter (Mondial T)
- Horsepower: 214 (Mondial 8) / 240 (Mondial QV) / 270 (Mondial 3.2) / 300 (Mondial T)
- Torque: 179 lb-ft (Mondial 8) / 188 lb-ft (Mondial QV) / 224 lb-ft (Mondial 3.2) / 239 lb-ft (Mondial T)
- 0–60 mph times: 5.6 to 8.2 seconds
- Base price: N/A
- Estimated market price: $25,000–$40,000
Ferrari 400 GT / 400i / 412
Before the Mondial, the 400 series provided Ferrari enthusiasts with a more practical option alongside their sports cars. With its elegant styling and distinct hoods, the 400 GT (1976–1979), the 400i (1979–1985), and the 412 (1985–1989) were variations that continued the trend through the Mondial era.
These models featured a prized front-mounted V-12 engine. Despite their impressive looks, the back seat has kept these stunning coupes from achieving the same high value as other classic Ferraris. However, their ease of use and relative affordability have led many to convert them into convertibles. The 400i introduced fuel injection to the 400 GT’s 4.8-liter, 12-cylinder engine while the 412 offered slightly increased displacement. The power varied, ranging from 340 (400) to 315 (400i) and back up to 340 (412).
- Engine type: 4.8-liter V-12 (400 GT / 400i) / 4.9-liter (412)
- Horsepower: 340 (400 GT) / 315 (400i) / 340 (412)
- Torque: 319 lb-ft
- 0–60 mph time: 7.0 seconds
- Base price: N/A
- Estimated market price: $40,000–$70,000
Ferrari 308
For many Americans, the Ferrari 308 is forever tied to the iconic Magnum P.I. series. The model’s moderate performance combined with its lengthy production run from 1975 to 1985 has contributed to its affordability.
Prices for the Ferrari 308 have risen considerably in recent years, moving from around $30,000 to double that for well-maintained models. Collectors who can’t access V-12 coupes are increasingly interested in the 308’s 3.0-liter V-8, especially since its design has made a comeback in popularity.
Those seeking more power should look for the carbureted models from the 1970s (approximately 240 horsepower) or the Quattrovalvole versions made from 1982 to 1985 (230 horsepower). It’s advisable to avoid the earlier fuel-injected editions from 1980 to 1982, which featured only 205 horsepower unless you’re looking for a bargain.
- Engine type: 3.0-liter V-8
- Horsepower: 240 (GTB/GTS) / 205 (GTBi/GTSi) / 230 (Quattrovalvole)
- Torque: 209 lb-ft (GTB/GTS) / 185 lb-ft (GTBi/GTSi) / 192 lb-ft (Quattrovalvole)
- 0–60 mph time: 6.7 seconds
- Base price: $45,000
- Estimated market price: $64,000–$110,000
Ferrari 348
In 1989, the Ferrari 348 took over from the 308 as the brand’s entry-level eight-cylinder sports car. Its refreshed design brought it in line with the V-12 Testarossa, and significant upgrades to the engine improved its performance.
Despite a 1993 update and various special editions, values for the 348 declined due to comparisons with the Acura NSX, which highlighted its lesser build quality, lack of comfort, and significant maintenance costs. Now overshadowed by the more expensive 355 model, it retains a more reasonable price tag.
- Engine type: 3.4-liter V-8
- Horsepower: 296
- Torque: 238 lb-ft
- 0–60 mph time: 5.6 seconds
- Base price: $95,000
- Estimated market price: $70,000–$100,000
Ferrari 360
The Ferrari 360 stands out as the first genuinely modern V-8 coupe produced by the brand. It eliminated the need for the costly engine-out service and improved the overall driving experience, making it more suitable for long-distance travel. Manufactured from 1999 to 2005, the 360 prioritized ergonomics and engineering, establishing itself as a top-tier sports car that could compete technologically with its peers.
So what contributes to the 360’s lower price compared to the more popular 355? Is it the absence of pop-up headlights? The fact that it didn’t gain its own arcade game? Or does its more refined demeanor detract from its appeal? Whatever the case, it’s an incredible bargain for anyone searching for a high-performance exotic that can also be driven daily.
Many Ferrari enthusiasts worry about the hefty scheduled maintenance costs associated with owning a Ferrari. However, it’s worth noting that it’s one of the latest models available with a manual transmission.
- Engine type: 3.6-liter V8
- Horsepower: 400
- Torque: 275 lb-ft
- 0–60 mph time: 3.9 seconds
- Base price: $138,000
- Estimated market price: $80,000–$103,000
Ferrari Roma
The Ferrari Roma is currently the most affordable option among Ferraris, with a starting price exceeding $200,000. However, used models from its initial 2021 release have dipped below the $190,000 threshold.
What does the Roma offer? This coupe stands out as a tech marvel, featuring advanced technology throughout. While its performance may lean towards grand touring rather than pure sports car agility, it boasts a powerful twin-turbo V8 engine that produces over 600 hp, delivering an exciting driving experience. It serves as a compelling rival to the Porsche 911 Turbo, although it lacks all-wheel-drive capability.
- Engine type: 3.9-liter twin-turbo V8
- Horsepower: 611
- Torque: 560 lb-ft
- 0–60 mph time: 3.3 seconds
- Base price: $222,000
- Estimated market price: $189,000–$205,000
Ferrari 330 GT Series I
The Ferrari 330 GT holds a market value nearing $200,000, which may seem favorable compared to other four-seater Ferraris. However, when benchmarked against multi-million-dollar counterparts like the 250 GTB or the two-seat 330 GT, whose prices range from $500,000 to $700,000, it’s evident that the 330 GT lacks a bit of market allure.
Nonetheless, the 1964–’65 330 GT Series I is an enjoyable car to drive. While it’s slightly heavier than coupes, making it less nimble on twisty roads, the sound of its V12 engine will surely thrill passengers in the back seat.
Photo: Getty Images
- Engine type: 4.0-liter V12
- Horsepower: 300
- Torque: 244 lb-ft
- 0–60 mph time: N/A
- Base price: N/A
- Estimated market price: Starting at $190,000
Ferrari BB 512
Launched around the same time as the iconic Lamborghini Countach, the Ferrari 512 Berlinetta Boxer (or “BB”) has struggled to achieve similar status in the classic car market. Though it delivered robust performance for its era, its relatively understated design has kept it from reaching the same heights as the Countach.
The 512 BB came with a 5.0-liter mid-mounted V12, generating 340 hp. The design of the 512 foreshadowed the styling seen in later models like the 308 and the 348. Even when it was retired (as the fuel-injected BBi) in 1985, it looked quite modern.
Additionally, the 512 BB played a significant role in the advent of the “gray market,” where American enthusiasts imported Italian sports cars that didn’t meet U.S. emission or crash standards and modified them accordingly.
- Engine type: 5.0-liter V12
- Horsepower: 340
- Torque: 333 lb-ft
- 0–60 mph time: 6.2 seconds
- Base price: $38,000
- Estimated market price: $200,000–$280,000
Ferrari 365 GTC/4
The Ferrari 365 GTC/4 marked the evolution of the 365 GT four-seater upon its introduction in 1971, showcasing a dramatically different design with its curved fenders, sloped wedge hood, and pop-up headlights. A notable aspect of this model is its shorter wheelbase, enhancing its character and appeal to Ferrari collectors who enjoy having multiple models from the brand.
Produced until 1973, it offers ample space for family trips and provides decent comfort, especially when compared to other classic cars lacking attention to passenger needs. Although only 500 units were made, the rarity hasn’t significantly inflated its price, making the 12-cylinder 365 GTC/4 yet another fine choice from the ’70s for collectors.
- Engine type: 4.4-liter V12
- Horsepower: 340 (320 for U.S. market)
- Torque: 318 lb-ft
- 0–60 mph time: N/A
- Base price: $27,500
- Estimated market price: $210,000–$275,000
Ferrari 296 GTB
At the top of our list for affordable Ferraris is the modern 296 GTB. Priced at $120,000 higher than any other model mentioned, it underscores the sharp rise in Ferrari ownership costs. This car features a turbocharged V6 combined with a hybrid system, producing an impressive 818 hp. The 296 GTB aligns more closely with Ferrari’s current Formula One technology than with earlier heritage models but remains highly sought after by buyers keen on cutting-edge tech to showcase in their garage.
- Engine type: 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 with a single electric motor
- Horsepower: 818
- Torque: 546 lb-ft (plus an additional 232 lb-ft from the electric motor)
- 0–60 mph time: 2.3 seconds
- Base price: $313,000 (2022)
- Estimated market price: $340,000 (2024)
Summary of Affordable Ferraris
- The Ferrari Mondial is estimated as the least expensive used Ferrari available today.
- Four-passenger, 2+2 Ferraris are typically cheaper than their two-seat counterparts.
- The Ferrari 308, while still affordable, no longer holds the title of budget-friendly option it once did.
- The Ferrari 360 stands out as the most economically accessible modern Ferrari.
- The Ferrari 512 BB offers performance akin to the Countach’s at a more manageable price.
- You might find classic Ferraris starting around $40,000, with modern “affordable” models reaching over $325,000.
by Bring A Trailer, MotorTrend Staff, Alan Muir