TL;DR Do you think PTU failure is inevitable and, if yes, would you happily consider a Lusso with 30K miles and PTU replacement already done (by an F dealer)? TIA Long version: Hello! New member and lurker here. Been a long-time Ferrari lover but never got to even think that one was possible. Finally, I am at a point where I am shopping for the f-car and Lusso is on the list. For additional context, we have other cars (SUVs and a stick 993 droptop for the weekend), so utility isn't the top priority. I would like the Lusso V12 as it seems to be the most approachable Ferrari with creature comforts and that glorious V12. The Portofino is another option as the wife would like a convertible (she doesn't drive the 993). I could stretch for the 488 Spider to get most of our needs met (sans the V12). I don't intend to track the car - mostly long drives in good weather. All that context noted, I would appreciate your thoughts on the below: 1) Assuming PTU failure is a high probability event for the Lusso, would you be relieved if it has already been taken care of at a Ferrari shop? I understand that for Ferrari Approved cars it will still be covered. 2) I have driven the Lusso and the Portofino but not the 488 Spider. Before I put it under consideration, I would welcome thoughts on drivability vs the Portofino as the wife isn't looking for something too complex. Thanks in advance, and I must admit the search is exciting!
From what we can see on Ferrarichat, the PTU on the Lusso is allegedly improved from the FF. So probably is already less. It doesnt mean that it is zero though, as you can see... But I would be totally fine with a car with a replaced unit, as long as it was done by a reputable shop. It would be even better if it was an improved version as proposed by GTE Engineering for example. But yeah regarding your choice of car, I am sure you will be thrilled with the Lusso, and the wife will love it as well. So useable and tame at low RPM but you can have the beast you want just by pushing above 5000 RPM. And so comfortable inside.
I choose the Lusso because it supports the wife's and my habit of golfing and road trips. 2 sets of clubs, 2 pieces of carry on luggage, 2 duffle bags, case of water, case of wine, couple bottles of tequila, warm coats on top, a couple of the wife's hats, golf shoes and trader joes goodies and all being pushed by a v12.
It seems (might be wrong though) that the Lusso has a slightly lower PTU failure probability than the FF. It might just be that fewer of them have failed because they are more recent. But this was also the comment from the workshop manager at my dealership (Bordeaux, France) who said they had seen many FFs with failed PTU, but no Lusso so far. It is also acknowledged that the PTU is slightly different in between the models. There is improved cooling on the Lusso, allegedly enabling more torque to be sent to the front wheels. The ECU also has an improved logic to control the PTU (also noted by the various reviews, including Chris Harris'). The new ECU could very well reduce the peak pressure sent on the hydraulic actuators in order to reduce the chances of blowing the retainer rings.
The 2 local metro nyc dealers both noticed lussos going in for ptu way earlier than ffs for ptu replacements. Sent from my iPhone using FerrariChat
It’s interesting if it’s a design flaw why it seems some cars get impacted and some haven’t been. On the Lusso while getting the V12 is ideal, does this mean getting the V8 may be a safer proposition or the V12 still worth the PTU risk?
Apples & Oranges If possible, take an extended test, drive in both, then go to lunch, then ask yourself which one do you want to go drive again? I don’t think you could go wrong either way, and while I enjoy the GTC4 Lusso T, I find myself driving the Portofino more often. Good luck with your search, A
I chose the GTC4Lusso T because of lower maintenance costs, lower warranty costs, and lower fuel costs. I also liked the spec and price of the one I found.
The V8 is a nice car and drives very well, but less emotion. The linearity and power delivery as you pass 5000rpm with the V12 is where the magic is. The V8 will be forgotten. The V12 will remain seen as a masterpiece.
You're so right about the engine beyond 5000 rpm, it sings in a way no other car I've driven does. It is intoxicating. (FF owner)
That's wrong info, PTU on Lusso, FF, and even purosangue absolutely same, they didn't fix anything. That's depends of style of driving, if drivers is shifting often.
Depends of PTU, if that stock PTU, changed by of dealer - not not not. If that's modified PTU by SS TECH, that's much better than any stock Gtc4lusso
IMHO the replacement by itself shouldn't be a huge issue- so long as it was done correctly. Lusso vs Portofino Both are very good for driving around with your wife Lusso has the V12- you are right that it's a good way to get into the V12 experience- I think this is a big factor Lusso has better ride quality Lusso also has wheels/ tires that are easier to damage - especially on the roads in the NorthEast- the fronts are fairly vulnerable Porto a little easier to park and live with because its a little bit smaller Porto is sexier looking/ do you need the backseats? My take away is the V12 is worth experiencing at least once in your life. Just keep your eyes open for pothole.
I just bought a 2016 FF and I choose a higher mileage car that only 6 months ago had the PTU's replaced by Ferrari, I have warranty for another 18 months unlimited miles. I searched for a good 4 months and decided to get the higher mileage car with a recent replacement I saved on the car and have a piece of mind for the first 18 months of ownership. As someone stated the same units are now used on the Ferrari Purosangue. The dealer who worked on the car said I have the 7th version and I think eventually they will go again and if I still own the car will get the Peak Performance replacements they seem to address all the weak points.
I think that was a wise decision. And congrats and I wish you good luck with your new car! But, keep in mind it didn't happen unless you post some pics.
