Ferrari isn’t just a car — it’s a symbol of speed, craftsmanship, and exclusivity. But if you dream of parking one in your garage, there’s more to know than just the sticker price. Behind the wheel of every Prancing Horse is a world of rules, restrictions, and surprises that most would-be buyers never expect.
Known for their use of competitive car technology, primarily their early adoption of V12 engines, Ferrari balances both comfort and performance flawlessly. Although Ferraris are similar to Lamborghinis and other premium vehicles, they are easily distinguished by their prestige and elegance. This is predominantly so given their scarcity, as these vehicles are sought after by many car enthusiasts, and many Ferraris appreciate in value over time.
Purchasing a new Ferrari isn’t a decision to make lightly. There are several essential points to consider, so continue reading to learn the four things you didn’t know about buying and owning your first Ferrari.
Buying a Ferrari? Here are 4 surprising rules you’ll need to follow
Before buying a Ferrari, there are a few things you need to know.
1. You cannot sell it without notice, or within the first year of purchase
Before buying a Ferrari, it is essential to understand all the terms and conditions and not turn a blind eye. If you read through the fine print, you’ll likely be surprised to learn that the manufacturer (Ferrari) retains control over its cars even after they have been sold.
Yes, you read that right. Ferrari either prohibits owners from selling them during the initial year of ownership or asks them to inform Ferrari before selling.
There’s a method to Ferrari’s madness. These regulations are set up to deter the profiteering resale of exclusive cars and motivate those who own them to drive them. Ferrari aims to discourage speculative buying and flipping. The company wants its vehicles to be driven and appreciated, not just stored for resale value.
Unfortunately, if you hope to try and pull the wool over their eyes, they are within their rights to retrieve their automobiles if the owners offer them up for sale, so make sure you’re buying it to enjoy — not to flip.
2. No alterations to the vehicle whatsoever
Ferrari is proud of its meticulous design, so much so that owners are prohibited from making unauthorized modifications. Even VIP buyers who customize their vehicles at the factory must follow strict rules, and any outside changes risk voiding the warranty.
This means that if you decide to buy a Ferrari, you can’t modify the engine, change bodywork, or paint without approval, or remove the Ferrari badge. Additionally, any repairs or maintenance must be completed by Ferrari using only genuine Ferrari parts; if not, the guarantee will be null and void, and you may be banned from purchasing Ferrari vehicles in the future. Yikes!
3. Ferrari does a thorough background check on all its potential customers
Purchasing a Ferrari isn’t as simple as one might think. It is impossible to enter a dealership with an enormous amount of money and walk away with a new Ferrari. This is because Ferrari chooses buyers carefully regardless of whether you possess the cash, especially for limited-edition models.
While most dealers run credit checks, Ferrari takes buyer screening further. Rumors suggest they prefer older buyers with spotless records and established reputations, which may explain why younger owners are rare.
4. You may never get on Ferrari’s VIP list, despite owning a Ferrari
Obtaining an ordinary Ferrari is difficult, but procuring an extremely rare or limited edition Ferrari is almost unattainable for an average person. These premium cars often sell out months before their availability is even made public, with waiting lists so restricted that even the wealthiest millionaires may struggle to acquire access.
Even longtime Ferrari owners often can’t crack the VIP list.
Wealth alone doesn’t guarantee a spot on Ferrari’s VIP list. The brand reportedly prioritizes loyalty, long-term relationships, and ownership history over net worth. While the full selection process remains opaque, exclusivity is part of Ferrari’s mystique.
So, enjoy your Ferrari if you decide to buy one, but don’t expect special treatment
What to expect after buying a Ferrari: 4 ownership truths
Now that you know what buying a Ferrari entails, here’s what daily ownership actually looks like.
1. Maintenance is often (read: always) costly
Repairing and maintaining a Ferrari can be pricey, regardless of whether it is a minor or severe issue. Unfortunately, many don’t realize that Ferrari owners must be picky about where they send their cars for maintenance and repairs.
When repairs are needed, most will find themselves visiting an authorized Ferrari dealership, not a local mechanic; even the most minor repairs can cost upwards of $1,000. So if you don’t think you can afford this and more, you may want to consider a more affordable high-performance vehicle instead.
2. Owning a Ferrari makes you a part of a community
Owning a Ferrari connects you to a close community of passionate enthusiasts. From invite-only events to local meetups, you’ll find yourself among people who appreciate performance and precision as much as you do.
3. Buying gas is expensive
Ferrari’s powerful V8 and V12 engines deliver incredible performance — and equally intense fuel bills. Big tanks and low MPG mean you’ll spend a lot at the pump.
4. You’ll become obsessed with driving it but will still have to use your main car
If you love speed, a Ferrari could be the vehicle for you. These cars are renowned thanks to their strong engines and fast speeds. Even entry-level models may deliver an exciting driving experience. However, it is crucial to remember that most Ferrari buyers do not utilize these
As tempting as daily driving might be, Ferraris are best reserved for special occasions — frequent driving can lead to faster wear and pricey repairs.
Pro tip: Consult with other owners and salespeople before purchasing
If you love fast cars and prestige, it’s unsurprising that you love Ferrari. In addition to your other research, we also advise hitting up a local car show or enthusiasts group to see if being a “Ferrari guy” is the right avenue for you.
Looking at a used Ferrari? Here’s what you need to know
No, you’re never going to see a Ferrari in a seedy roadside used car lot, but there is a way to get the pre-owned Ferrari of your dreams.
Don’t expect a bargain — even pre-owned Ferraris often sell for their original price or more, especially limited editions.
Ferrari has a comprehensive program for its pre-owned cars, which makes sense coming from a brand known for controlling every aspect of its vehicles. According to the company’s website,
Buying a Ferrari is more than a purchase — it’s a passport to a world of power, prestige, and precision. If you’re ready for the rules and the responsibility, it might just be the ride of your life.
