Ferrari's Biggest Mistake? Is The 2008 California As Bad As Everyone Remembers?

[@hyena8385]

Small point - the back seats - everyone says they are useless but this is always mentioned from a single adult reviewer POV. I have had a Cali for 10 years and it's had two baby seats followed by two child seats at the back. The kids love the top down too! Absolutely perfect for those at that stage of their life!

[@steve0504]

Useless?? NO. Do you even realize how many of us had to check the “…Only if it has 4- Seats” ‘BOX’ in order to get a ‘Sports Car?” When you have a kid or two, you’ll be given the “Book of Rules” from the Union…. Haha!

[@ad03dh]

Thanks for this insight. I was thinking about it for a kid and happy to hear they work for you.

[@TheLDunn1]

When I was 15 (& 6’3”) I went down to the South of France from the UK in the back of a 308 GT4. Mind you, my parents also went on a European road tour in an E-Type roadster when I was about 3, and that only had two seats, apparently, I sat on the transmission tunnel. Oh, I’m 57 now….

[@Themodernclassicsshow]

I was walking down Hollywood BLVD about few years ago and saw 4 guys all in a California! The guys in the back looked a bit cooped up, but they were all in it! Was funny to see

[@jakebrown1639]

I love how James isn’t scared to challenged established big names in the automotive world and call them out. It’s refreshing to watch someone give a genuine reaction to a car rather than just using recycled preconception of the brand or model. Great stuff!

[@Manu-Official]

That's because he does not have to ask Ferrari, he's relying on car owners. See Matt Watson recently reviewing the Brabus G 800, he did not dare saying a bad thing on that pointless piece of rubbish.

[@ea9167]

@@Manu-Official The old G Wagon is a notoriously piss poor car, unbearable wind noise, steering wheel doesn't self-centre just to name a few. And people somehow compare it to a Range Rover and say as a car it's better? Sure the curb appeal is better but in a car review I want a review of how the car is, not how many likes on Instagram I'll get. Anyone who has driven the two will tell you that the "Old" G Wagon (the one I drove) is a complete basket case to drive, you buy it for the curb appeal & nothing else. I mean people bought the V12 G65 which was slower to 60 than the V8 G63... It's comparable to James' previous video on the Huracan, not someone just having a melt down because it's a Lamborghini but calling them out for putting an average parts bin special interior, terrible seats, ridiculous price point especially when you could have the (subjective) better looking, better appointed & better tech filled Audi R8 which is the exact same car underneath for nearly one hundred grand less. No car reviewer would ever dare say that.

[@ea9167]

@@ultraguy8771 As an ex Merc dealer - No. Both points you make are hilariously wrong. 1. The G65 is up there with one of the rarest car configurations Mercedes ever made. I have only ever sold one, I SAW a G63 every other day. 2. Luxurious is not a word that I would personally attach to any G wagon (at least at the time I left) - people buying them were never interested in LuXuRy; I only ever dealt with 2 types of G Wagon customers - Chavs that came into a bit of money who wanted to look like they were in the Russian Mafia and people who wanted to look like Kim Kardashian - that's it, it has that reputation and deserves it, do you think Mercedes didn't know their client base?? If you walked into a Merc dealership and walked past the GORGEOUS S class, the FAR BETTER GLS, heck even GLE and chose the G wagon because it is LuXuRiOuS then frankly you need your brain checking for mental retardation. The wind noise is ASTONISHINGLY BAD, the ride is comparable to a Countach and that's NOT an exaggeration, the tyre noise was alot more intrusive than other Mercedes, I mean for fuck sake even the steering wheel wouldn't centre itself; my lawn mower can do that, the seats weren't the most comfortable either, the interior was spartan and cheap even for 2015 when I left and you're seriously going to say that they said no, lets not fix anything else in the car, let's give it a V12 to fix it? If they did it purely for luxury reasons, it would've been called the G600, not G65. Very different car and anyone who has even driven a S65 or a S600 will be able to attest that. I mean for fuck sake, why do you think Maybach used the S600 & not the S65? It's a totally TOTALLY different car. Having dealt with the customers as well - the only G65 I ever sold was to this lady who was in a relationship purely for the money and wanted a car; and I quote "I want a car better than my friends 63". That is the kind of crowd they appeal to - Mercedes knows this, they designed it around that and we were taught that. The new one is MILES better (apparently) but they don't offer it in a 65 configuration, despite the fact that it is a far more capable, comfortable and usable car compared to the old dog that I knew. IMO no one should buy one anyway, if you give a shit about luxury in any capacity a GLS, Range Rover, Q7 anything but a fucking G wagon. They are the most over priced shit boxes going - having to sell a car I knew was awful was painful but the thing is the buyers of G wagons don't care how nice the interior is, or how well it rides or anything else - it's all about Vanity. Tbh I have had a bit of a rant purely because people pay 3x too much for them. They are the most overpriced cars on the market today by an absolute mile and any illusion of luxury and G wagon is a mis-informed at best.

[@Sentymentkok]

I love how Jamed isnt scared to take his viewers on his biuciful goges fevrit piece of ttttwwwisstyyy beeec rreeudddd

[@dylanoppeneer2354]

@@ea9167the huracan chassis is modified though on some places

[@peterwhitehead2453]

Absolutely love this car, not even a comparison to a Boxster in my view...has the Ferrari presence & beauty that Porsche hasn’t had for generations...

[@veeco3110]

Looks at you in gt3, gt3rs, gt2rs, 918, Carrera gt “Am I a joke to you?!” Haha

[@LifeExplanatory]

@@veeco3110 *reminder* those are not boxster money haha 😆

[@JoseRodriguez-ey7ju]

@@veeco3110 yeah that's a dumb point you're comparing cars that don't cost anywhere near the price of the california

[@veeco3110]

I meant it more towards the Porsche hasn’t had presence or beauty for generations. My apologies

[@42dunbar]

You should drive a 3.8 or 4.0L Boxster or Cayman before dismissing them. Perfectly balanced mid-engined layout and (finally) enough power to exploit what the chassis can offer. It’s not really a “big guy” car though so I can see why JayEmm might not like it. I’m in the camp that thinks the 911 is overrated but after driving a GT4 it is pretty much the best handling car you can buy for under about $175k.

[@finalpharoah1]

I've always lived this car, I could never understand the hate. I loved it when Jay shouted "I REALLY LIKE THIS CAR!", that is what a car is supposed to do to you. In Clarkson's article about the California, he had a similar reaction.

[@lukecamfield2130]

Always knew this car wasn't as bad as people say!

[@barbarusbloodshed6347]

Come on, it was so obvious it was something the snobs said about a car that was meant to appeal to a wider audience.... :D

[@danielbentley8103]

I bet its a great car to own. And poor people jeer and are jealous and never been in a ferrari

[@pookachu64]

I had no idea it had a bad name - I’ve always been a fan of it.

[@lukecamfield2130]

@@pookachu64 Well I think as stated in the video it was more the narrative that was spun after the fact. And I also think the image of the car owner didn't help it. I'm so glad all of that is rubbish though, personally has always been an aspirational one day car... now I really feel like it could be worth it!

[@mobsquad7805]

It is horrible for the money. But a corvette, M6 or S65 any day. The California and T are girls cars. The portifino M is the only car that is a true supercar.

[@OCCMotorsport]

I’ve owned a Nero Daytona Cali for 3 years now, never had any issues with it. Had it tuned by DMS automotive now running 510BHP. For the money you can’t beat it!

[@nolandderlugner1351]

Amazing

[@jamesdavies8982]

Did the tune make a significant difference? More low end torque presumably?

[@finalpharoah1]

@@jamesdavies8982 More low end torque will blow a high revving motor. It's like asking a diesel to rev to 7000rpm. High revving cars are designed for specifically that purpose

[@8PMFORMULA]

Then you will strip out those mods when you are ready to sell it to some unsuspecting person as a totally stock never modified or abused car.

[@thehumanoid6543]

@@finalpharoah1 i mean if you increase the bore and the intake trumpet length both at the same time, you keep the same power because power loss through increased trumpet length is cancelled by increase in bore radius, but you get more torque because now your intake runners are longer.

[@vibingwithvinyl]

I always liked the California. It looked a bit like the classic Ferraris from my childhood. Would love to have one.

[@mikij1018]

This remains the only Ferrari I’ve had the privilege of driving. Wasn’t the fastest thing ever (a modern A45/RS3 feels much faster on the road) but it felt very special. Honestly do not understand the hate these got when new. They’ve come down in price so much that hopefully in 18-24 months or so I’ll be in a position to pick one up myself🤞🏼

[@JoseRodriguez-ey7ju]

great that you enjoyed the car but you missed the whole point of the video, Jay clearly states that the car was actually received well when it launched, it was only in the years after that the car started to receive hate for whatever reason

[@BUMHEAD1100]

@@JoseRodriguez-ey7ju but it just wasn’t well received…. I do agree it was vilified more with age, but to say it was received well is disingenuous. For example let’s take the two Chris Harris videos on you tube - he was not keen but held back on the original California launch, but then in the Cali T review he totally slated the original. So yes over time people hated it more - but it was never really loved to begin with.

[@lcwpg]

@@BUMHEAD1100 The people who love it is those who actually bought one but the rest is just following some motor journalist opinions. Everyone got their own opinion but never follow them blindly.

[@samcourt6228]

@@JoseRodriguez-ey7ju I don’t recall them being particularly well received when new at all, most reviews were pretty down on them.

[@nathanl4417]

About to finally purchase one!

[@ScottZ370]

Always thought this car was the back to basics road going Ferrari, they never were all about speed and power back then! Just sounded great and got everyone looking

[@nickrichardson7451]

Any 2+2 Ferrari’s are sidelined by the people who only regard 2-seater’s as true Ferrari’s hence the Cali, like Mondials, 308GT4’s, 456’s, 612’s, 400’s, etc are all relative bargains! I’ve always only ever bought the 2+2 Ferrari’s and they provide more space for luggage as well as often better handling than 2-seaters! For racing it’s interesting to note 308 GT4’s & Mondial 3.2’s etc are in demand! The Cali is a great drive, & I like it’s looks!

[@visionist7]

Imagine if they found out old man Ferrari preferred four seat V12 GTs

[@pushatsinfrared]

@@visionist7 don’t tell them that or by the time I’m old enough to afford a Ferrari at all they’ll all be out of reach

[@notmark2745]

Even V12 2+2s are being sidelined (talking about the FF especially). Might also just be the Design Aesthetics of the car, but they are CHEAP for what they are.

[@AntoniusTyas]

Get the FF and GTC4Lusso while you can, before they realized what they've missed out and start jacking the price.

[@christopherhume8896]

The problem with most 2+2s is that the +2 is unusable, even the back seats in the new Roma are barely suitable for children. The GTC4 is the only properly 4 adult car Ferrari did, maybe the FF. I'd rather have a bigger boot or a lockable storage space but maybe that's just me.

[@simondale3980]

I stopped paying attention to what motor magazines said a good while ago, most seem to talk a lot of rubbish.

[@barry5138]

Most of the writers are just trying to out compete each other with the latest buzz words

[@DKArmstrong]

It's the same in the film industry. But I know we are not hear to talk about that.

[@EvoraGT430]

A lot of them have been swayed/blinded by all the hospitality. Worst of all is Steve Cropley; he only ever talks about the schmoozing, barely mentions cars at all!

[@iHaveTheDocuments]

That's how all journalists are thought of in general now, across all industries. Seems everyone has realized urinalists are a joke.

[@DKArmstrong]

@@iHaveTheDocuments SHOW ME THE DOCUMENTS

[@brostelio]

Closed captions interprets that exhaust note as music. Very fitting.

[@captgutter]

The Cali is a beautiful car. Never meant to be a cutting edge sport machine like the 430, nor a cruiser like the 456. Classic looking open top. I never understood the criticism. Great review.

[@anthony2213]

100% agree with you James, for me the California is a brilliant Ferrari and the fact that it doesn’t have too much power, or turbos makes it even better, as you can actually enjoy the linear power delivery knowing full well that the chassis and brakes are capable of far more. One of Ferrari’s underestimated gems.

[@Hali88]

Looks good, sounds good, and if it's 'bad reputation' keeps driving the prices down then good, makes it a more and more affordable dream car. 460hp is more than enough for B roads and country lanes, which is where this car will be almost always used.

[@colinmeechan587]

Always had a soft spot for the California

[@barbarusbloodshed6347]

Yeah, was the first "new" Ferrari where I went "Oh, this looks great"... all the other Ferraris from the early 2000s (and all those from the 90s) were absolutely FUGLY.

[@bambychoi9366]

I driven two of them and really enjoyed them for what they are/were. Not comparing it to the other models within the brand.

[@jkeaton1513]

I've had a 2010 for the last two years in Mirabeau Blue with a Crema interior. It's been flawless. Getting gas the other day a teenager pulled up to me in his big Toyota 4x4 and rolled his window down and exclaimed "That's the most beautiful car I've ever seen!" Sometimes the amount of attention can be a little much but when you hear complements like that it puts a big smile on your face.

[@tonysuzer9569]

Excellent Review Mate! I do have a 2012 California and really appreciated this review from you! Cheers!

[@lordnovember5688]

Regarding EVO I believe the original reviews were mostly managing Ferrari's feelings, trying not to cross them too badly by bashing the car ; later reviews looking back to the car years later were a bit more reflective of the honest opinions of road testers. Gathered this from Chris Harris' podcast with Harry Metcalfe, but I could be wrong of course.

[@thehumanoid6543]

yeah ferrari has always been too touchy about the opinions people give about its cars. And maybe, they deserved that, because from the 60's-early 70's and then again from late 90's to early 2000 s, they were simply the best. But they are no longer focused on the driver but on lap times and 0-60 which matters to the a-holes who have enough money to spend on them. Ferrari needs to look at what Porsche's done, because I'd rather have a gt3 touring than any ferrari made today(except maybe the 812 gto, cause i can almost forgive the lack of a manual when you have a wild 9.5k rpm v12 in front of you)

[@varsas10]

It goes the other way too. They hated the S2000 when it was new (I have a copy with the original group test, they didn't even like the engine), but a year or so ago it was in the 'icons' section and lauded as amazing, with one of the best engines ever made.

[@thehumanoid6543]

@@varsas10 well, you realize how bad modern cars have to be at fun and simplicity , that an s2000 that received dismal reviews in period is now in the icons section of the same mag 20 years later. And it's not like the people have changed, Dickie, catchpole, bovingdon and metcalfe all still write for evo and do the icons sectio

[@TheKRVR]

I’ve had the pleasure of driving several Californias and I was never disappointed. I think they’re comprehensively good cars and I also think they make great first exotics to own. I also never really knew where the stigma came from for them being bad cars to drive. Great review as always and thanks for shedding some light on the first gen Cali!

[@global_nomad.]

nice surprise at the end and it feels it reinforces the notion that auto journalism is on the whole part of the marketing system and lacks a true criticality.

[@AntoniusTyas]

Really don't understand EVO. I like reading (and watching) EVO reviews during the days of Jethro, Henry, Chris, Dickie, and Harry. Perhaps add Steve Sutcliffe lately, but back then he was with Autocar. But several others outside them are a little questionable. Praising Evora over the 992 yet decided that 992 wins the test because it's easy to live with? Come on.

[@backseatcovers]

That was very interesting, in particular the ending rant! Oh and that leather was gorgeeeeeous

[@Pauli-COJ]

Thanks a lot for the post credit scene! Really informative and hobest, as always! Cheers!

[@KevGoesRiding]

came for a car review, and I got a stellar piece of investigative journalism!

[@mgutkowski]

Thank you for homing in on the stuff that's actually important to a lot of us. It doesn't have to set your hair on fire to feel fast and fun.

[@BM-di4cu]

I loved that you're wearing a SF Giants shirt while reviewing the Cali

[@crouger92]

Didn't these sell really well, despite what the press said about them?

[@ImGriffinP]

They did, but often it was from Ferrari forcing their buyers to buy a Cali to get another higher end car (like a 458).

[@trihardcx6743]

I believe most buyers were first-time Ferrari customers.

[@atastefortheroad4475]

The Cali represented 10% of production and brought in lots of new buyers, including many women. The car's strong resale value reflects plenty of demand.

[@davebarron5939]

Neat review, especially the "connecting-the-dots" at the end, kinda like wiping that haze off a windshield that seems to only show when the sun hits it just right. Thanks.

[@01stum]

I’m so glad. Had one for the day for my 40th Birthday always wanted to drive a Ferrari and it was great sounded nice looked the part and went well for what I was use to. Great day glad you liked it proved I’m not as stupid as I thought for loving it

[@SPC22]

Me too Airstewie, drove it across the hills around Maranello...an experience I'll never forget, and there was room for three of us....I get tired of people with their prejudices always banging on about their so-called ideals, while they forget about what really matters in life....

[@01stum]

@@SPC22 that is so true, there’s alot of it on You Tube too. That’s why this channel Harry Metcalfe and the car guys is all I take notice of even though I watch a few others. But driving it up in Maranello sounds amazing the ultimate place to drive it and agree had three of us in the one I drove and was fine

[@JZS171-W]

One of my favourite Ferrari’s love the styling & the noise, I always thought it got slated on its release.

[@georgeparaskevopoulos6601]

This car is all about elegance. It’s an awesome cruiser!! I really appreciate all of you guys who come out and say the truth about those cars. Of course nothing is perfect, but it’s a really really nice car and you can definitely enjoy it as a coupe or as a convertible. At the end of the day what really matters is customers opinions. The sales figures explain everything.

[@wings9925]

Very interesting! Calling out Evo and other publications is good to hear! Revisionist history has no place, as you rightly say

[@Sahibsinghchohan]

I owned a California for nearly 3 years, loved it. Not the fastest but sounded great!!!

[@coreycohen6160]

What killed the California reputation was how good the 458 was just a year later and people think of them as the same generation so they compare them together when they think of early 2010’s Ferrari’s.

[@hyena8385]

so true, I saw a lot of mag reviews ending in "but we'd rather have a 458". But it was meant to be judged differently for a different purpose... that's why they have a different model! 🤦

[@richardmortimer8147]

To be honest, there is one big reason to have a 2008 'Cali' over a 'T,' Portafino or Portafino M. Not the price... although is one. It is the first and last N/A drop head Ferrari. Hear them coming past you one by one, the 2008 stands out!

[@aeromotive2]

really glad you added that second part, i was just about to suggest it! gj

[@greek2mee]

I recently bought my first Ferrari and it is a 2010 California in TDF Blue. The Cali in this color really brings out the beautiful lines in the car that I think may have changed some original opinions if it was marketed in that spec. I have not been able to get rid of the smile on my face since my first drive with it! I have spent an awful lot of time reading Ferrari Chat and watching YT videos on the California since I bought the car. Like most of the comments here, just about everyone now is a California fan and James's review is spot on. He really captures the essence of this car as only he can and that is what we all love about his honesty. It is not always about big specs but how a car makes you feel and the positive reaction to it. Chris Harris' comments on the California were IMO undeserved and I wonder deep down if he feels more like everyone else's positive comments here...including James's.

[@MysteriousBreeze]

Absolute blinding review, especially at the end knocking out the big magazine out off its socks. Bravo 👌🏼👌🏼

[@stephensquire2410]

I owned my Gen 1 California 5years it done everything I asked and was my cheap Ferrari fix. As im not a racing driver like Chris Harris I always felt that it was capable of killing me before I it. loved it and very fast.

[@andyharvey7985]

A refreshing review of a true Ferrari. Well done James!

[@iandavidson99]

This happens even more with Hi-Fi magazine reviews! I've read many times in magazines words to the effect "Improves over the predecessor's flaws in every way" ... and yet if you revisit the original Hi-Fi component article, it got a 4 or 5-star review! Honestly, my friend and I used to joke about this all the time.

[@pahyip3432]

Fabulous video. The 2010 California is my everyday driver. I love it, I put on more than 38k miles on it and counting. I tracked it, dragged, launched it often and I've done 0-1 mile with it. The California is a warrior, a true supercar. They don't make NA V8s much now days and in the future, enjoy the sophisticated sound while you can!!

[@bobwalther1154]

I appreciate you challenging the crowd that panned this car. Ferrari can make a useable product. It doesn’t have to be bonkers and impractical to be a “real Ferrari.”

[@augustortiz]

I always liked the looks, but it’s incredible how well it has aged. I remember all the hate it received when it came out.

[@dans4316]

Nice review JM! I agree I drove the California 30 when it came out. Loud, fast, fun and the screen saver has my home town of Carmel Ca. on it. Double clutch works just as well as the Italia…maybe 🤔

[@hashrogers]

James your reviews are truly authentic and trust worthy. I have been an avid lover of cars all my life and have subscribed to most cad magazines. Most journalists views keep changing and are fluid. After watching you channel I get a sense of trust and authenticity. Thanks and keep it up

[@hashrogers]

Also to add - the boxster does not come close to the California. The California has aged so beautifully. Whenever I see one on the road I can’t help but love it and admire it and can’t stop looking at it.

[@lanmastersassistant659]

I saw one today, it's a very timeless design that simply doesn't look old

[@matthewjudge3763]

I'll admit, I never really liked the Cali, I thought it looked kinda boring and was too heavy and sorta forgot about it... That car looks incredible on your video, apparently 17yr old me was quite blind.

[@jayfxdx]

Really underrated car. Apparently the owners of them really loved/love them.

[@richardheath3923]

Very interesting piece on the Evo review at the end and something that generally tends to come through in your reviews is the genuine nature of your views (often contrary to the established opinion) and that this is normally well explained. IMO a major reason your content seems to resonate with a large number of petrol heads is the often fresh take on something settled, commonly with very nuanced conclusions.

[@henryshu6265]

See, that's exactly why I quit reading car reviews nowadays, because videos like this really are far more trustworthy!

[@CHuzz7777]

Loved these when they came out and dismissed the journo’s nonsense at the time. No question I’d have one of these over a Boxster. It’s not even a competition.

[@jamesdavies8982]

One of your best reviews in my view. Love that you came to your own conclusion and that you favour this over the Cali T which is refreshing to hear. I've currently got a 4.3 (400bhp) Vantage SS Roadster and considering either one of these or an F430? Is it an upgrade or a sideways step for approximately double the price or, worth going with a 2009 F430?

[@kazino21]

Aston has great charm (I owned a 4.3 roadster), 430 (my brother owned) is sharper as it's mid engined and not designed to be a gt, California (have had for a few years) is a great GT and was a step up from the Aston. I also have a couple of 911 turbos which are better in every way except the sound

[@Themodernclassicsshow]

I just got a California and done a review on it on my small channel, and I completely agree with your comments! Its brilliant! Such a cool car! Thanks for making this!

[@grahamtricker4103]

I think the original California is better looking than what came after. Well done for speaking out on this... 👍

[@onkesigenu6243]

This video has definitely changed my mind about this car, it “feels” lovely!

[@kimbland2614]

The engine is probably closer related to the 458 italia than the F430.

[@joeb7975]

actually the same yet neither - main difference is F430 and 458 are both dry sump - but this engine is wet sump and actually most closely related to the Maserati Gran Turismo

[@paulthorpe766]

@@joeb7975 Maserati is totally different cross plane crank versus Ferrari flat plane crank though - fp for power and cp for torque btw !

[@staLkerhu]

@@joeb7975 by spec the Cali and the 458 engine has a 94mm bore, while the F430 engine has a 92mm bore. The Cali engine is rather a short stroke 458 engine than an F430 engine.

[@darrellsimpson6966]

@@paulthorpe766 by

[@paulthorpe766]

@@darrellsimpson6966 What does ‘by’ mean pls Darrell?

[@AndrewDobie]

Love it. I had a Boxster and it was a great car. But in a clinical kind of way. I'm glad I had one, but I want more theatre and this certainly delivers.

[@TACADO1]

You fit in that it and really suits you! Excellent review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[@heleng9690]

So pleased you drove and liked the California. To me it’s at such a great price point it’s been hard not to buy already . I went for a 911 997 cabriolet last year for my sunny day car, but now you’ve reviewed and recommended the California I’ll move onto this next year. I love its looks and the exhaust sound. The Boxtser is no comparison in my opinion. Please keep up the amazing reviews. I love the variety of what you look at each week. Great reviews every time.

[@saralee8459]

We just got our 2013 Ferrari today! It has 18,400 miles! We will enjoy this car!

[@longtailgt]

Because I grew up in a time when I didn't have social media, and somehow I had managed to not see any of the "bad reviews" this car had been subjected to, I'd say my view on the California was a bit more unfiltered than others, and all that really mattered to me was how it looked, how it sounded and how it made me feel. And to me, the California has always been, and always will be a stunningly pretty car that sounds great and feels like a Ferrari sports car. I was very baffled when I eventually stumbled upon the internet platforms and started seeing how much people hated it and I couldn't understand it. I'm not sure what happened, but I suppose many of them jumped on the bandwagon of "hating the California so you look cool" while some simply misunderstood the car. 15 years later I still think it's one of the nicest mainstream Ferraris you can own, and I'm glad people have started waking up to it. Although I don't think it's right to compare it to a Boxster, they are in different leagues. I'd have the California any day! In fact, to me, it's California>California T>Portofino.

[@PADABOUM]

I am back in September if you want to do a proper review of the T. Really enjoyed the last bit when you went back in time.

[@MotorsportbyMario]

I for one think it is a very handsome car. Have always had a soft spot for it. Would love to own one one day!

[@sportzntouring]

Loved the insight on the contradictory journalistic coverage at the end... "Somehow the Ferrari magic escaped?!" 🤣

[@Badger-qj7uf]

The Ferrari over the Boxster every day.

[@42dunbar]

I’d take a mid-engined 4L Porsche every day of the of week over a used Ferrari California.

[@Badger-qj7uf]

@@42dunbar The Boxster may be a great car, but at the end of the day it is an ordinary car. The Ferrari is an extraordinary car. Sometimes it isn't about the ability of the car but the unquantifiable magic of the car.

[@42dunbar]

@@Badger-qj7uf Have you driven the 3.8 or 4.0L Boxster or Cayman? It completely transforms the character of the car. And there really is no substitute for having a mid-engine layout in the handling department.

[@Badger-qj7uf]

@@42dunbar I am not saying the Boxster in any form is not a brilliant handling car, neither am I saying the Ferrari is a better car. Down most roads I accept the Boxster would be the quicker car, just like Quorn is nutritionally better than a McDonalds burger, but I would still rather have the burger. Sometimes it isn't just about the ability of the car, it's about the specialness of the car. What it brings emotionally to the drive.

[@42dunbar]

@@Badger-qj7uf Yeah, I get the desire to drive a GT car over sports car. I just don’t get the appeal of a used Ferrari California with no warranty. I know JayEmm is firmly in the used Italian car camp. It’s all fun and games until the first $5k service bill comes along.

[@matthewpumfrey2178]

The best value Ferrari available today. Love the debrief, James 👍

[@911abz]

Thanks for the review, really enjoyed it as I’m very keen on getting one soon as a weekend tourer to sit alongside my 991 turbo s (which the wife hates being a passenger in because it’s too fast!), and so this review is great timing - also good to hear the service costs are fairly low for Ferrari standards, one thing I’ve struggled to find out.

[@andyb52804]

lol... Your San Francisco shirt while driving a California didn't go unnoticed. Bravo!

[@seb9357]

It’s hard watching someone live your dream

[@NickG24]

Thanks for a great and honest review. I also heard people bring up the “not a proper Ferrari” line. Since this is the only reasonably aged Ferrari I’m ever likely to be able to afford, I love the fact you’ve exposed it for what it is supposed to be. The fact that you can drive it easily, it’s comfortable, good gearbox etc are huge pluses. As you say, a Cayman or Boxster GTS is probably a competitor in my mind but after this review I’d have an old California every single time because it will be my one and only chance to own a Ferrari. Great point at the end, they all went out with a pre conception and wanted to hate it. They do that with a lot of cars. Just because they’ve driving something better in the past, it doesn’t mean something else is not good also.

[@michaelsdiscusandatticaqua9155]

California is one of my favourite cars of all times, maybe something wrong with me 🤷‍♂️ This before any Porsche for me

[@cmdreffietrinket]

What an excellent review, especially in the closing. The lesson to us all? Ignore what others say and buy what you like, because popular opinion tends to be driven by trend and perpetuated by the snoberazzi. Now I’m off to find out if you’ve reviewed the 612. 👍

[@TheMrFishnDucks]

This looks like an awesome car. Cannot believe I forgot about it.

[@godsangryhands4499]

Ive always LOVED the California.. The body style.. But the clincher for me is the Hardrop convertible... But i AM a Audi/Porsche fan.. Curreny i have an A4.. Love it! But this California has a spot in my Heart..;-)

[@luk0z4de97]

Ah the start of TDU2 nostalgia is real

[@viduransivakumar3192]

Can confirm

[@Bd-ox4mi]

Top review love your honesty look forward to your back catalogue as I’ve just stumbled upon you ✌🏻

[@probono3284]

I really enjoyed this, I love the original Cali and I’m hoping to buy one soon. In wine terms Porsche is fine Bordeaux and Ferrari is fine Burgundy. The great châteaux of Bordeaux are owned by international corporations, and produce wine that’s dependable, consistently high quality and always enjoyable. Burgundy is unreliable as it’s made by craftsmen on small farms using ancient techniques, and sometimes the wine is crap - but sometimes it’s just sensational, and blows the socks off even the finest Bordeaux. Ferrari has that Burgundy spirit, it’s an undefinable quality called soul, which no German car can ever possess.

[@sprezzatura8755]

Excellent analogy and metaphor!

[@ldorman]

In my opinion, the California is a modern take on the Ferrari Daytona Convertible. I just recently rewatched the 2006 movie and my thought was, the California would have been better suited as Crocketts car than the F430 Spider. But I know, it wasn't out when they shoot the movie.

[@davidsmyth9729]

Really enjoying your reviews over the past while, refreshing style to your work over others. Keep them coming! Driving one of these in a week's time so was good timing on the review, can't wait now!

[@daveleary9467]

Glad you came out at the end with that piece James, I’ve seen that myself so many times and has frustrated me too. Great video as always

[@markgeezey1809]

Spot on my friend! Typical Journo’s. They always slag off the older models when a shiny new model arrives, forgetting that they had given the previous versions of various cars stellar reviews originally. Like bloody magpies 🤯🤣. Literally after watching your video then KZbin provided me with Harry’s Garage and his review of the California T Speciale. He even commented on how bad the original was🤔 yet sort of praises the new one in general. Great review J 👍.

[@michaelsalter2473]

Smile that you regard a sub 4.0 to 60 as not quick, when I was a car fanatic teenager in the 70’s we thought 5.5 sec to be outrageously quick! Aston V8 Vantage was the car I wanted so much.

[@TheEarlofK]

I never really liked the California from the start, taking its nomenclature from one of the most beautiful Ferraris ever made was never going to help in comparison, but now that it's generally regarded as the runt of the Ferrari litter it has now garnered some respect as a lot of performance for a reasonable price; I'd certainly have one over a run-of-the-mill Boxster, anyday.

[@PalashMehta]

I loved the California the dsy it came out and when I got to drive it few years down the line I was smitten,,, it remains the only modern Ferrari design I like up to recent models

[@markbennett6658]

At £60k it’s still too rich for me and I expect plenty of others. It’ll probably be £90K now after Jay giving it a good ‘bigging up’ Ah well!😂

[@tanner1ie]

I've loved this car since I first saw it in Gran Turismo 5 and I raced in it every time I could. Indeed I also loved the 612 😀🤘 .

[@Foxtrot_EW]

Out of all the Ferrari's ive oened over the decades, this is my favorite! Love it!

[@kyleholloway3470]

Saw one of these in Fareham yesterday. I'm not a massive Ferrari fan (lost interest after the F50 for the most part), but I do like the California.

[@frenchbred2081]

Having driven pretty much all of the Ferrari range old and new, (working for a main dealership helped!) I always found it a very easy car to drive, sounded great and now is proving to be a bit of a bargain price wise! Buy one now before prices go back up.

[@duncanmartin2626]

I don't care that a Boxster is probably a lot faster, this is so much more special. My boss' boss had one back in the early 2010s, and it was amazing. He switched it for an i8, which is cool looking, but it didn't sound anywhere near as nice.

[@willbrennan5965]

Good job great review

[@chrisogrady28]

I LOVE the original NA Cali. I just wish you could get a gated manual, that would genuinly be my perfect 1 car garage

[@donaldw6049]

Yes Yes Yes

[@trihardcx6743]

You could, but only a handful were ever made, so they're 599 GTO money now.

[@chrisogrady28]

@@trihardcx6743 i was just reading about this, it's so crazy only 3 were ever ordered and one has been crashed. There's just 1 RHD manual cali and it's in the UK somewhere. So annoying that people didn't order them. I do wonder if it's possible to manual swap one, I'd pay about £30k for a swap if it was possible. The cali was the very last ferrari offered with a stick and the fact barely anyone bought one is what made them axe the third pedal entirely.

[@Paris__]

Absolutely spot on. But I tell you another thing about Ferrari. I own a Ferrari 330 GTC (considered a budget low-end classic and low-rent Ferrari by enthusiasts who turn their noses down at it), here in Monaco I was given the opportunity to purchase an Enzo, LaFerrari ect. I don't want a track toy, I wanted a GT. So I bought a California, which I still have. And you wanted to hear what the dealer said!......"Why do you. want one of those for? You want a 'true' Ferrari!".......Snobs! In truth, it ha been fairly reliable mechanically. But it's the niggles and below-par quality that irritate. It's constantly at the dealer for fixes and electrical issues. People may say "it's a Ferrari" . But why should we expect a below standard product for a lot of money, just because the marketing men have inflated the brand. I don't know why I'm so brand-loyal to them. But my 330 means everything to me, as my father bought it for when I was born in 1967😥

[@TheThinker1111]

I couldn’t agree more Jay, I frikin LOVE the O G Cally, infact, I’m gonna put my entire life on hold and work 24/7 in order to get one! Absolutely no-one could put me off this thing. Belissimo!! 🇮🇹

[@GadgetyMV]

Love the channel. A question: 13:37 "I would definitely have one over a Boxster" A used California, at least in continental Europe is about par with a NEW Boxster GTS 4.0. Is this the comparison you're making?

[@Iamneverright]

I would take the Ferrari California all day long.. Porsche are great cars to drive, but are a bit soulless in my humble opinion !!!

[@trihardcx6743]

Fantastic review man, love the California!

[@sebmanes1401]

Always loved the Cali 30 with 458 wheels - great car