HAROLD PACE
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May 20, 2022
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All Feature Vehicles
The cheapest Ferrari you can currently buy is the Ferrari Mondial 8, available on the used market from approximately $20,000 to $40,000. Other affordable options include the Ferrari 308 GT4 (from $35,000), the Ferrari 308 GTBi/GTSi (from $40,000), and the Ferrari 348 GTB (from $45,000).
However, purchase price is only part of the story. Even the cheapest Ferraris carry significant maintenance costs routine tune-ups regularly exceed $6,000 to $8,000, and basic engine work can top $35,000. Read our complete guide below before making any decisions.
Ferrari prices have never been higher. Ferraris are currently the hottest flavor in the collector car candy store. Pretty much all V-12 Ferraris from the ’60s and earlier are worth more than half a million dollar and blue-chip examples like the Ferrari 250 GTO have crossed the $50 million mark.
But there are still Ferraris that can be had for less than a new Corvette, and some for less than a new Miata. But just because you can afford one, should you jump into the game?
The majority of affordable Ferraris are V-8s from the ’70s and newer. Although they can often be bought through online auctions for what seems like very reasonable money, the purchase price is often a small part of the total expense of Ferrari ownership.
With most collector cars the price of a total restoration can easily exceed the value of the car. With Ferraris the price of routine maintenance can do the same. Tune-ups easily top $5,000, and the cost of just basic engine work can exceed $30,000.
Due to the stratospheric rates for even minor repairs, it’s common for owners of lower-valued Ferraris to forego servicing until the car is in desperate straits. That’s why it’s very important to insist on records for all shop work, and also why unscrupulous owners may prefer to sell at auctions to prevent close inspections and embarrassing questions from prospective buyers. Having a car inspected by a Ferrari expert before purchase is a must.
The good news is that an experienced amateur mechanic can probably maintain a carbureted or mechanically injected Ferrari. If you have kept a vintage Jaguar, Porsche 911 or Mercedes on the road, Ferrari innards should hold no big surprises (other than the price for parts). Otherwise, you’ll want to find an independent repair shop with Ferrari experience to maintain your car.
If you can’t get visions of a prancing horse out of your head, here are some of the best deals, plus a few to think twice about before buying. We’ve even rated them on a scale of one (think ring with a curse) to five stars (Michael Schumacher, eat your heart out!). These numbers are based on value, running costs and performance. Of course, if you can afford the upkeep, any Ferrari is better than no Ferrari at all!
Use this table to compare all 10 models at a glance before reading the full reviews.
| # | Model | Years | 2026 Buy Price | Est. Annual Maintenance | Reliability | Our Rating |
| 1 | 308 GT4 Dino | 1974-80 | $35,000-$65,000 | $4,000-$10,000 | ⭐⭐⭐ | ★★★ |
| 2 | 308 GTB/GTS | 1975-85 | $40,000-$90,000 | $5,000-$12,000 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ★★★★ |
| 3 | 328 GTB/GTS | 1985-89 | $75,000-$130,000 | $5,000-$12,000 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ★★★★★ |
| 4 | Mondial | 1980-93 | $20,000-$60,000 | $5,000-$15,000 | ⭐⭐ | ★ to ★★★★ |
| 5 | 348 GTB/GTS | 1989-94 | $45,000-$75,000 | $6,000-$15,000 | ⭐⭐⭐ | ★★★ |
| 6 | F355 | 1994-98 | $80,000-$140,000 | $8,000-$20,000 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ★★★★★ |
| 7 | Testarossa | 1984-92 | $80,000-$135,000 | $8,000-$18,000 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ★★★★ |
| 8 | 365 GT4/400/412 | 1972-89 | $30,000-$65,000 | $8,000-$20,000 | ⭐⭐ | ★ to ★★ |
| 9 | 550 Maranello | 1996-2001 | $100,000-$185,000 | $8,000-$18,000 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ★★★★★ |
| 10 | 348 Challenge | 1993-95 | $50,000-$70,000 | $5,000-$12,000 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ★★★★ |
Prices based on June 2026 market data from Hagerty, Bring a Trailer, and Cars & Bids completed sales. Maintenance estimates based on independent Ferrari specialist shop rates.
2026 Price Range: $35,000–$65,000
The GT4 was the first V-8-powered street Ferrari, and followed the popular 246 Dino. Like its predecessor, it was named for Enzo Ferrari’s late son Alfredo (Dino) and initially had no Ferrari emblems on the outside. In 1976, the badging was switched to Ferrari at the insistence of the dealers.
The wedgy 2+2 styling by the Italian styling house Bertone was initially considered too tame when compared to the racy two-seat 246. The 308’s 16-valve engine (3.0L, eight cylinders) was fed by four Weber carburetors and produced 230 hp in American market tune.
What’s Under the Hood:
The 308’s 3.0-liter V-8 engine features 16 valves and was fed by four Weber carburetors in its original configuration, producing approximately 230 horsepower in U.S.-market specification. The engine sits transversely mounted behind the driver, creating a compact mid-engine package that delivers excellent weight distribution and balance.
Why the 308 GT4 is the Cheapest Ferrari Worth Buying:
After years of being the most overlooked and therefore cheapest used Ferrari on the market, the 308 GT4 has experienced a genuine resurgence in collector appreciation. Values have risen steadily since 2020, but it remains one of the most affordable authentic Ferrari experiences available.
The carbureted engine is also one of the more DIY-friendly Ferrari powerplants a significant advantage given the cost of Ferrari specialist labor. An experienced home mechanic familiar with vintage carbureted European cars will find the 308 GT4 far more approachable than later fuel-injected models.
2026 Ownership Reality:
Our Recommendation: Buy the best example you can afford. A well-maintained $55,000 GT4 will cost you far less over five years than a neglected $30,000 example that needs $25,000 in immediate work.
308 GT4 ★★★
2026 Price Range:
The two-seat GTB (coupe) and GTS (Spyder) were sold alongside the Dino and enjoyed huge sales success, due in part to the highly visible example driven by actor Tom Selleck in the popular television series Magnum, P.I. The first ones had fiberglass bodies, but by 1976 they were switched to steel. Production numbers were strong by Ferrari standards, which is precisely why these remain among the most affordable Ferraris available today.
308 GTB/GTS (1975-1979) – Carbureted:
The original carbureted models share the same 3.0-liter, four-Weber, 230-horsepower engine as the GT4 Dino. These are the most desirable of the 308 family for two reasons: better performance than the later injected models, and simpler, less expensive maintenance. The earliest 1975-1976 cars featured fiberglass bodywork these are genuinely rare and now command $80,000-$120,000+. Post-1976 steel-bodied examples are the sweet spot for affordable ownership.
308 GTBi/GTSi (1980-1981) – Fuel Injected:
In 1980, Ferrari responded to tightening U.S. emissions regulations by fitting a Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection system to the 308. The result was a significant power drop to approximately 205 horsepower in U.S. tune combined with more complex maintenance requirements. These are the cheapest 308 models to buy but carry higher ongoing costs due to injection system complexity. Avoid unless the price is significantly below carbureted equivalents.
308 QV GTB/GTS (1982-1985) – Quattrovalvole:
In 1982, Ferrari addressed the power deficit by fitting new four-valve-per-cylinder cylinder heads (hence “Quattrovalvole” Italian for four valves). Power was restored to 240 horsepower in European specification (slightly less in U.S. form). The QV models represent a genuine performance improvement and are highly recommended over the GTBi/GTSi versions.
Gray Market Warning:
A substantial number of European-specification 308 models were imported to the United States through the gray market during the early 1980s. These lighter European cars offer better performance than U.S. versions but were converted to meet American regulations with wildly varying levels of quality and compliance. Always verify the vehicle’s import and conversion history thoroughly.
2026 Ownership Reality:
Our Pick: An early carbureted 308 GTS (Spyder) in solid condition. The open-top experience, correct specification, lower maintenance costs, and growing collector appeal make this the best value in the 308 range.
308/308QV ★★★★
308i ★★
2026 Price Range: $75,000-$130,000
If there is one affordable Ferrari that represents the absolute best combination of value, reliability, performance, and long-term ownership satisfaction, it is the Ferrari 328 GTB and GTS.
The final version of the famed 308 models received a new designation, courtesy of a more muscular 3.2L version of the QV engine.
What Makes the 328 Special:
Visually, the 328 is distinguished from the 308 by a more angular front bumper treatment and revised tail lights. Late-production 328 models received ABS braking a meaningful safety addition that also slightly affects wheel offset (later cars have wheels with less outward offset, a detail that matters to purists).
Visually the 328 has a more angular nose than the 308, and late versions with ABS have wheels with less offset. The 328 has always been an admired model and has better resale than the troublesome 348 model that followed.
The 328 has consistently held better resale value than the troublesome 348 that replaced it in 1989. This is a market signal worth paying attention to: the 328 is loved by those who own them, and that genuine affection is reflected in the prices these cars command on the used market.
2026 Ownership Reality:
Our Verdict: Worth every dollar of the premium over the 308. If your budget stretches to $80,000-$100,000 for a clean 328 GTS, buy it without hesitation. You will spend less on maintenance, enjoy better performance, and own a car with stronger resale trajectory than almost any other affordable Ferrari.
328 GTS and GTB ★★★★★
2026 Price Range:
The Ferrari Mondial is the cheapest way to buy a Ferrari badge in 2026. As a genuine four-seat Ferrari with a mid-engine layout, it offers something genuinely unique and its low market value makes it extremely tempting for budget-conscious buyers.
This long-lived four-seater replaced the Dino GT4 and was based on the running gear of the two-seat models that were built at the same time. Both coupe and cabriolet versions were available.
Mondial 8 (1980–1982):
The 1980-82 Mondial 8 carried the injected 308 GTi engines, but in a package that was heavier (and even slower) than the GTBi and GTSi. Like the Dino GT4, the Mondial models were criticized for styling that was refined rather than exciting. However, they handle well and are the lowest priced Ferraris on the market today.
Mondial QV (1982–1985):
In 1982 the QV engine was dropped in, and three years later the 3.2L mill from the 328 finally gave the Mondial a respectable level of performance.
Mondial 3.2 (1985–1989):
The 3.2-liter engine from the 328 finally gave the Mondial the performance it deserved. This is the first Mondial we would comfortably recommend to a buyer willing to do their homework. Handling is genuinely good, and the 2+2 body makes it the most practical Ferrari in this price range.
Mondial t (1989–1993):
The final version was the 1989-93 Mondial t, which switched to the longitudinally-mounted 3.4L V-8 from the 348 series. The “t” designation refers to this transaxle layout. These are deceptively quick and not that much more valuable than the earlier models.
2026 Ownership Reality:
Mondial 8 ★
Mondial QV ★★
Mondial 3.2 ★★★
Mondial t ★★★★
2026 Price Range: $45,000-$75,000
(348 Serie Speciale: $65,000-$90,000)
The 348 was an all-new model that followed the popular 308/328 series. It got off to a rough start with road test reports of high-speed instability and a disappointing standard of finish. The 348s are expensive to keep alive and many haven’t been kept up throughout the years.
The 348 was also the first Ferrari with a transversely-mounted gearbox and longitudinally-mounted engine. The final models handled better, so pick a later one. There were also 100 Serie Speciale models built in 1993 with minor cosmetic changes and sport seats.
Why Buy a 348 Anyway:
Despite its reputation, a well-sorted 348 is actually a very rewarding car to drive. Later production models (1992–1994) had most of the early issues resolved, and the 3.4-liter V-8 producing 300 horsepower makes for genuinely exciting performance. The 348’s lower values compared to the 328 and F355 mean you get similar performance for significantly less money.
2026 Ownership Reality:
348 GTB and GTS ★★★
348 Serie Speciale ★★★★
2026 Price Range: $80,000-$140,000
The F355 was a much-improved 348 with cleaner styling and new five-valve cylinder heads for the 3.5L engine. Power was up to 375 horses and performance was impressive.
There were three models:
Why the F355 Is Still Affordable:
Ferrari sold more than 11,000 F355 examples worldwide during its four-year production run a high volume by Ferrari standards. This relative abundance is the primary reason F355 prices remain within reach for serious enthusiasts. Supply is sufficient to keep values from spiking the way rarer models have.
2026 Ownership Reality:
F355 ★★★★★
2026 Price Range: $80,000-$135,000
The Testarossa was a development of the 365 and 512 Boxers of the ’70s. The slat-sided styling was sooo ’80s and the TR was bulky and claustrophobic for around-town use. But it did have an impressive 5.0L flat 12 in the middle.
The TR lived in the shadow of the wildly exaggerated Lamborghini Countach, despite being a better sports car. Repair costs are higher than for V-8 models, so be sure to have these inspected carefully before purchase. The engines are strong, but not so the gearboxes.
The Flat-12 Engine:
At the heart of the Testarossa sits a 4.9-liter horizontally-opposed twelve-cylinder engine mounted longitudinally in the middle of the car, producing 390 horsepower. It is an extraordinary piece of engineering and one of the great Ferrari engines of any era. The soundtrack it produces at high revs is something that genuinely has to be experienced to be understood.
Warning about the 512 TR:
The improved 512 TR replaced the Testarossa in 1992, featuring 428 horsepower and various chassis refinements. It is a significantly better car but commands prices starting at $120,000-$200,000 putting it at the outer edge of our “affordable” definition.
2026 Ownership Reality:
Testarossa ★★★★
Read More: A Ferrari Testarossa Goes Silent
2026 Price Range: $30,000-$65,000
Ferrari has traditionally offered medium-sized four-seat touring cars, starting with the 1960 250GTE. The early 2+2 models have now been discovered by collectors and prices have taken off.
365 GT4 2+2 (1972–1976):
But the 365 GT4 2+2 that followed them has not found much love in the prancing-horse community. Never officially imported to the U.S. by Ferrari, a large number were converted by gray-market dealers. The wedge-shaped body became dated quickly and the 4.4L V-12 engine with six Weber carbs was a nightmare to service.
400 GT (1976–1979):
In 1976 the engine was opened up to 4.8L and the name changed to 400 GT. The “GT” suffix indicated a five-speed manual gearbox.
400 Automatic (1976–1984):
A new model, the 400a, featured the first automatic transmission offered in a Ferrari using a GM-sourced Turbo-Hydramatic unit.
400i (1979–1985):
In 1979, the Webers gave way to fuel injection and the anemic, if more tractable, 400i was born. A number of 400s were sliced into convertibles by aftermarket companies, but there were no factory drop-tops.
412 (1985–1989):
The final development was the 1985-89 412. Minor restyling cleaned up the back and the engine was pumped up to 4.9L. The best of the lot are the GTs, especially early carbureted examples, but precious few 400s have been properly maintained.
2026 Ownership Reality:
Automatic ★
Manual gearbox ★★
2026 Price Range: $100,000–$185,000
Okay, we’re cheating a little here. The big V-12 Maranellos aren’t super cheap, but they do represent the best value in a big, honking front-engined Ferrari. They look fabulous, run even better, and are the logical descendent of the iconic $500,000-plus 365 GTB “Daytona” of the ’70s.
Maintenance costs are high, but the Maranello has proven to be relatively reliable and well-developed.
How does 485 screaming horses and 200-mph performance sound? If you can afford to splurge on one of these, you’re getting a lot of prestige and performance for the money. The 550 is perhaps one of the few undervalued Ferraris on the market.
They hold up better than the visually similar, but more electronically complicated, 575 that followed. Like the 355, the reason they’re affordable is that they sold well when new, and so are not particularly rare. Don’t let that stop you.
2026 Ownership Reality:
550 Maranello ★★★★★
2026 Price Range: $50,000-$70,000
Historically the most valuable Ferraris are the ones with a racing history. There’s not a single Ferrari racing car from the ’50s or ’60s that wouldn’t break a million dollars at auction today. However, there’s one racing Ferrari that can be had for less than a tired Porsche Cup Car, the 348 Challenge.
Developed for the Ferrari Challenge amateur racing series, the 348 Challenge cars started as 348 street models but received minor performance and cosmetic improvements. Ferrari dealers then installed roll cages and other safety equipment for racing. The engines were basically stock, but special 17-inch mags wore racing slicks.
The 348 Challenge cars raced from 1993 until 1996 when they were dropped from the series. Today these old warriors compete in Ferrari Club track events, NASA and SCCA road racing. You won’t win many trophies, but you can find out how it feels to race a Ferrari!
2026 Ownership Reality:
348 Challenge ★★★★
If you are looking for the most affordable new Ferrari rather than a used classic, the entry point to the current Ferrari lineup is the Ferrari Roma, starting at approximately $230,000 in the United States for the 2025-2026 model year. For buyers focused on new cars, this is the only Ferrari that qualifies as the “cheapest” option available from a dealer showroom.
For used Ferraris under $100,000, the models covered in this guide represent the best value available anywhere in the 2026 market.
The cheapest Ferrari currently available on the used market is the Ferrari Mondial 8 (1980–1982), which can be found from approximately $20,000 to $40,000. However, buyers must understand that even the cheapest Ferraris carry identical maintenance costs to more expensive models. Tune-ups run $6,000–$10,000 and major services can exceed $30,000 regardless of the car’s purchase price.
Yes. Several Ferrari models can be purchased for under $50,000 in 2026, including the Ferrari Mondial (all variants), the Ferrari 308 GT4, and some examples of the Ferrari 308 GTBi/GTSi. The Ferrari 348 Challenge racing car is also available in this price range. However, always budget an additional $15,000–$20,000 for immediate maintenance needs.
Among affordable Ferraris, the carbureted models — specifically the Ferrari 308 GT4 and early carbureted 308 GTB/GTS — are the most accessible from a maintenance perspective. Their Weber carburetor systems, while requiring specialist knowledge to set up correctly, are simpler and less expensive to service than later fuel injection systems. An experienced home mechanic familiar with vintage European cars can perform much of the routine maintenance.
The Ferrari 328 GTB and GTS (1985–1989) is universally regarded as the most reliable affordable Ferrari. Its 3.2-liter Quattrovalvole engine is well-proven, its mechanical layout is straightforward by Ferrari standards, and it benefits from the full development cycle of the 308 platform without the teething issues of the 348 that followed it. The Ferrari F355 is also highly reliable when properly maintained.
The best-value affordable Ferraris for investment potential in 2026 are the Ferrari 328 GTS, Ferrari F355 Spider, and Ferrari 550 Maranello. All three have shown consistent value appreciation over the past five years. The 308 GT4 is also attracting growing collector attention. The Ferrari Mondial and Ferrari 348 (standard models) have historically been slower to appreciate, though all genuine Ferraris have trended upward over the long term.
Approach auction purchases of affordable Ferraris with significant caution. Many sellers specifically choose auction environments to avoid pre-purchase inspections and detailed questions about service history. If an auction allows pre-sale inspection access, take advantage of it and bring a Ferrari specialist. If no inspection is possible, factor a substantial deferred maintenance allowance into your maximum bid.
The Ferrari F355 offers the best performance-to-price ratio among affordable Ferraris in 2026. Its 375-horsepower, five-valve-per-cylinder 3.5-liter V-8 engine was genuinely revolutionary at launch and remains impressive by modern standards. The F355 was also the first Ferrari to win widespread acclaim from mainstream automotive journalists, earning comparisons to far more expensive machinery.
Before purchasing any affordable Ferrari, a specialist pre-purchase inspection should cover: timing belt condition and replacement history, valve adjustment record (critical on F355), clutch condition, gearbox operation through all gears, cooling system integrity, electrical system function, chassis for accident damage, underbody for rust or previous repairs, and complete service history verification. Budget $300–$600 for a proper inspection — it is the best money you will spend.
The cheapest V-12 Ferrari available in 2026 is the Ferrari 365 GT4 2+2 or its successors (400, 400i, 412), which can occasionally be found from $30,000. The 400 series offers a genuine 4.8-liter or 4.9-liter V-12 experience at a fraction of the cost of other V-12 Ferraris, though maintenance complexity and the prevalence of deferred maintenance make thorough inspection absolutely essential.
The most affordable brand-new Ferrari available in 2026 is the Ferrari Roma, starting at approximately $230,000 in the United States. For buyers focused on used Ferraris under $100,000, the models covered in this guide represent the best available options in the current market.
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