12. Ferrari F355
Would you like to own a Ferrari for Lexus money? It is a tempting proposal and if you lust for sensual lines of the gorgeous F355. Ferrari introduced it in the mid-90’s, so now is your chance to buy it for the price of a new, well-equipped mid-size SUV. However, the cost doesn’t mean you should buy this car. In fact, it is notoriously unreliable and expensive to maintain.
There are several significant problems with the F355. You will be shocked to hear how much the service costs. First, there are exhaust manifolds, which can crack. So, how is that possible since the headers are not a complicated part and rarely crack on modern cars? The answer is bad engineering and poor materials.
The cost of replacing the headers is close to $5,000. However, if you don’t do the headers and keep driving, you could face engine failure. A full engine rebuild costs around $25,000. Second, the valve guides are prone to failure in about one out of every five Ferrari F355s. As you can expect, the price of sorting this problem out is also astronomical at approximately $6,000.
Also, every three to five years, F355 owners are required to do a regular belt change and full service. This includes pulling the engine out of the car and several days of expensive labor. Some dealers charge around $10,000 for this routine service. This should discourage you from buying a used Ferrari F355. However, if you can save a little more, look for the F360 or 430. They are far more reliable and user-friendly cars.