Used Ferrari Roma buyer’s guide
The Ferrari Roma isn't just another sports car—it's a statement. With its sleek lines inspired by 1960s glamour and a roaring V8 under the bonnet, this grand tourer blends Italian elegance with raw performance. Whether you're drawn to its timeless design or the thrill of 612 horsepower, the Roma delivers an experience that's equal parts sophistication and adrenaline.
If you're considering a used Ferrari Roma, you're in good company. This model has captured the hearts of car enthusiasts who want something special without the over-the-top aggression of some supercars. It's refined, yet thrilling. It's a Ferrari you could drive every day—if you dare.
In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about buying a used Ferrari Roma, from what makes it tick to what to watch out for when you're shopping around.
The Allure of Ferrari Roma: A Design Perspective
The Ferrari Roma stands out because it doesn't try too hard. Instead of screaming for attention, it commands it quietly. The design takes inspiration from the stylish grand tourers of the 1960s, a time when cars were as much about grace as they were about speed.
Timeless Styles from the 1960s
Ferrari's design team looked back to the golden age of Italian motoring when creating the Roma. The result is a car that feels both nostalgic and modern. Clean lines, minimal fussiness, and an unmistakable silhouette give the Roma a presence that's hard to ignore. It's the kind of car that makes people stop and stare—not because it's flashy, but because it's beautiful.
The front grille is subtle yet distinctive, and the absence of a rear spoiler keeps the profile sleek and uncluttered. Even the wheels are designed to complement the overall aesthetic rather than dominate it. This is a Ferrari for those who appreciate understated elegance.
Refined Proportions and Modern Touches
The proportions are near perfect. The long bonnet, short rear deck, and low roofline create a classic sports car stance, whilst modern touches like LED headlights and aerodynamic sculpting keep it firmly in the present day. Inside, the cabin is equally impressive, with a minimalist dashboard, premium leather, and dual touchscreens that put control at your fingertips.
It's a cabin that feels more like a luxury lounge than a racetrack cockpit. Ferrari has managed to blend comfort with performance, making the Roma a car you'd actually want to spend hours in.
Performance Unleashed: The Powertrain of Ferrari Roma
If the design draws you in, the performance will keep you hooked. The Ferrari Roma is powered by a turbocharged V8 that delivers blistering acceleration and a soundtrack that'll make your heart race.
What Lies Under the Bonnet?
Under that sculpted bonnet sits a 3.9-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine producing 612 horsepower and 760 Nm of torque. Power is sent to the rear wheels through an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission, which shifts with lightning speed. The result? A 0-60 mph sprint in just 3.4 seconds and a top speed of 199 mph.
But it's not just about raw numbers. The Roma feels alive in a way few cars do. The throttle response is instant, the steering is sharp, and the chassis is perfectly balanced. This is a car that rewards skilled driving, but it's also forgiving enough for everyday use.
Engine Specifications and Driving Dynamics
Ferrari's engineers didn't just focus on straight-line speed. The Roma comes with a suite of driving aids, including adaptive suspension, electronic stability control, and multiple driving modes. Whether you're cruising through city traffic or attacking a winding country road, the Roma adapts beautifully.
The dual-clutch gearbox deserves special mention. It's smooth in automatic mode for relaxed driving, yet aggressive enough in manual mode to satisfy your inner racing driver. And the sound? Pure theatre. The V8 howls and crackles on upshifts, reminding you that this is a proper Ferrari.
Price Points: Evaluating the Cost of Luxury
Let's talk money. The Ferrari Roma price isn't for the faint-hearted, but when you consider what you're getting, it starts to make sense. This is a hand-built Italian masterpiece with performance that rivals supercars costing twice as much.
Understanding the Pricing Framework
A new Ferrari Roma starts at around £175,000, but used examples can be found for significantly less. Depending on mileage, age, and specification, you might find a used Roma for anywhere between £140,000 and £160,000. The Ferrari Roma Spider, the open-top version, commands a premium—expect to pay around £10,000 to £15,000 more for the privilege of dropping the roof.
Prices can vary based on optional extras, of which there are many. Ferrari offers an extensive list of customisation options, from carbon fibre trim to bespoke paint colours. A well-specced Roma can easily exceed £200,000 when new, but those extras don't always translate to higher resale values.
Factors Influencing the Final Cost
Several factors will influence the Ferrari Roma for sale price. Low-mileage examples with full service history naturally command higher prices. Limited-edition colours or rare options can also add value. Conversely, high-mileage cars or those without complete service records may be priced more competitively.
It's worth noting that Ferraris generally hold their value well, especially limited-production models. The Roma, being a relatively recent addition to the Ferrari lineup, hasn't been on the market long enough to establish long-term depreciation trends, but early signs are promising.
Comparing the Ferrari Roma with Competitors
The Roma doesn't exist in a vacuum. It competes with other grand tourers and sports cars that offer similar levels of performance and luxury. So how does it stack up?
How Does It Stack Against Rivals?
The Roma's main rivals include the Aston Martin DB12, Porsche 911 Turbo, and the McLaren GT. Each has its strengths. The Aston Martin offers arguably more elegance and a more traditional GT feel. The Porsche is more practical and easier to live with daily. The McLaren is more track-focused and arguably more dramatic.
But the Roma strikes a unique balance. It's more refined than the McLaren, more exciting than the Aston Martin, and more special than the Porsche. It's a Ferrari, after all, and that badge carries weight. The Roma offers a driving experience that's distinctly Italian—passionate, theatrical, and utterly intoxicating.
Unique Selling Points
What sets the Roma apart is its blend of usability and performance. This is a Ferrari you could genuinely use every day. The ride quality is surprisingly comfortable, the cabin is spacious enough for two adults, and the boot is actually usable. Yet when you want to, you can unleash 612 horsepower and experience performance that few cars can match.
The Roma also benefits from Ferrari's legendary build quality and engineering expertise. Every detail, from the stitching on the seats to the way the paddle shifters feel, is executed to perfection. It's this attention to detail that justifies the premium price tag.
Ownership Experience: Features and Options
Owning a Ferrari Roma is about more than just driving it. It's about the entire experience—from the features and technology to the maintenance and support.
Premium Features Overview
The Roma comes generously equipped as standard, but Ferrari offers an extensive list of optional extras. Highlights include a premium audio system, carbon fibre interior trim, adaptive LED headlights, and a passenger display screen. The dual-touchscreen infotainment system is intuitive and responsive, though some might find it takes a bit of getting used to.
Is the Ferrari Roma a 4 seater? Not quite. Officially, it's a 2+2, meaning there are two small rear seats. However, these are best suited for children or short journeys. Adults will find them cramped. Think of them as occasional seats or extra luggage space rather than proper seating.
Is the Ferrari Roma a convertible car? The standard Roma is a fixed-head coupé, but Ferrari also offers the Ferrari Roma Spider, which features a retractable soft-top. The Spider adds an extra dimension to the driving experience, allowing you to enjoy that V8 soundtrack with the wind in your hair. How much is a Ferrari Roma Spider? Expect to pay around £185,000 for a new Spider, with used examples starting from around £155,000.
Maintenance and Warranty Insights
Ferrari offers a comprehensive warranty and maintenance programme for new cars, which can be extended to cover used examples. Servicing costs are predictably high—expect to pay several thousand pounds for an annual service. However, Ferrari's build quality is excellent, and major mechanical issues are rare.
It's essential to buy a Roma with full Ferrari service history. Not only does this protect your investment, but it also ensures the car has been maintained to Ferrari's exacting standards. Independent specialists can be cheaper, but you risk voiding warranty coverage.
Insurance and running costs are also worth considering. The Roma falls into a high insurance group, and fuel economy averages around 20-25 mpg in mixed driving. But let's be honest—if you're buying a Ferrari, these aren't your primary concerns.
What to Look for When Buying
Buying a used Ferrari Roma requires careful consideration. Here's a checklist to help you make an informed decision:
Service History: Ensure the car has full Ferrari service history. Any gaps or missing documentation should raise red flags.
Mileage: Low mileage is desirable, but don't be put off by higher-mileage examples if they've been well maintained. Ferraris are built to be driven.
Specification: Check the optional extras carefully. Some options, like the premium audio system or carbon fibre trim, can significantly enhance the ownership experience.
Condition: Inspect the bodywork for any signs of damage or poor repairs. Check the interior for wear, particularly on the leather seats and steering wheel.
Test Drive: Pay attention to how the car drives. The engine should feel responsive, the gearbox should shift smoothly, and there should be no unusual noises or vibrations.
Documentation: Verify the car's history using its registration number. Check for any outstanding finance or previous damage.
If you're unsure, consider hiring a Ferrari specialist to inspect the car before you buy. It's a small investment that could save you thousands in the long run.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Ferrari Roma's engine performance compare to its competitors?
The Ferrari Roma's 3.9-litre twin-turbocharged V8 produces 612 horsepower, placing it firmly in supercar territory. Compared to rivals like the Porsche 911 Turbo (572 hp) and the Aston Martin DB12 (671 hp), the Roma sits comfortably in the middle. However, what sets it apart is the character of the engine—the Ferrari V8 delivers a more visceral, emotional experience with its distinctive soundtrack and razor-sharp throttle response. It's not just about the numbers; it's about how the car makes you feel.
What makes the design of the Ferrari Roma stand out in the present market?
The Roma's design philosophy is refreshingly different. Whilst many modern sports cars lean towards aggressive, angular styling, the Roma embraces elegance and simplicity. Its proportions are reminiscent of classic 1960s grand tourers, with clean lines and minimal ornamentation. This timeless approach means the Roma will age gracefully, avoiding the dated look that can plague more trend-focused designs. It's a car that values sophistication over shock value.
What engine does the Ferrari Roma have?
The Ferrari Roma is powered by a 3.9-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine. This award-winning powerplant produces 612 horsepower and 760 Nm of torque, delivering blistering performance and an unforgettable exhaust note. The engine is mated to an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission that sends power to the rear wheels. It's the same basic engine architecture found in other Ferrari models, but tuned specifically for the Roma's grand touring character.
How much is a Ferrari Roma Spider?
The Ferrari Roma Spider typically costs around £185,000 when new. Used examples can be found for approximately £155,000 to £170,000, depending on mileage, specification, and condition. The Spider commands a premium of roughly £10,000 to £15,000 over the standard coupé due to its retractable soft-top mechanism and the enhanced driving experience it offers. Optional extras can push the price significantly higher.
Is the Ferrari Roma a 4 seater?
Officially, the Ferrari Roma is classified as a 2+2, meaning it has two small rear seats in addition to the front seats. However, these rear seats are best suited for children or short journeys. Adults will find them cramped and uncomfortable for anything beyond brief trips. In practice, most owners use the rear seats as additional luggage space rather than proper seating. If you need a genuine four-seater, you might want to consider a different model.
Is the Ferrari Roma a convertible car?
The standard Ferrari Roma is a fixed-head coupé, not a convertible. However, Ferrari does offer the Ferrari Roma Spider, which features a retractable soft-top that can be raised or lowered in approximately 14 seconds. The Spider retains the Roma's elegant proportions whilst offering the option of open-air driving. Both versions share the same powertrain and performance characteristics, though the Spider weighs slightly more due to the additional roof mechanism.
