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The Ferrari FF offers a different reason to consider a V12 grand tourer: a car intended to extend the driving season. Its four seats and four-wheel-drive system can make it relevant to buyers whose plans include colder climates. They do not remove the need to examine tires, road conditions and the individual vehicle's mechanical condition.
For a US buyer, the strongest FF search begins with a realistic description of winter use. Occasional dry mornings in a cold city and repeated journeys to a snowy mountain property are different assignments.
Understand the role of 4RM
Ferrari's history of the FF identifies the model, introduced in 2011, as its first four-wheel-drive production car. The rear wheels remain driven, while a Power Transfer Unit supplies the front axle with assistance when required on low-grip surfaces. Ferrari integrates that torque management with the car's other dynamic controls.
The buying implication is straightforward: the front-drive hardware deserves specific attention during the pre-purchase inspection. Ask the technician to assess the system, review relevant repair invoices and explain any stored faults. A generic engine-and-gearbox inspection description may not tell you whether this part of the car received meaningful evaluation.
The tire plan comes before the ski plan
Ferrari's FF winter-tire accessory listing identifies dedicated winter fitments. That is useful evidence that the factory's seasonal-use concept includes suitable tires. It is not a promise that every listed product or size is currently available from a US supplier.
Have a Ferrari-qualified specialist confirm the correct present-day tire and wheel combination for the specific car. Ask for availability and a written installed quote before assuming a second wheel set will be easy to obtain. Review the tires actually fitted, including their age, condition and matching specification.
Four driven wheels cannot create grip that the tire and road surface do not provide. Treat acceleration traction and the ability to stop or change direction as separate considerations. Keep generous margins and postpone the trip when conditions exceed the car's or driver's capability.
Inspect the winter details you will use
Test the heater, demisting, windshield washers, wipers and exterior lighting. Have the technician check the condition of seals, drainage paths and the underside. Ask whether any previous corrosion treatment or underbody repairs are documented rather than assuming a clean exterior tells the entire story.
Try your intended luggage with the passenger arrangement you expect to use. Secure long equipment only with an appropriate arrangement; do not let the shape of the cargo area turn loose items into a safety risk. Bring the actual bags or equipment to a permitted fit check.
Plan for the destination
A heated home garage does not answer what happens at the other end of a journey. Consider overnight parking, local service access and recovery arrangements. Discuss the vehicle's loading requirements with any transport provider before a problem occurs.
Also decide how the car will be cleaned after exposure to dirty winter roads and where seasonal wheels will be stored. Request a maintenance plan based on time and use, not just a hoped-for annual mileage.
The FF's distinctive engineering makes a broader ownership brief possible. The most convincing purchase is an inspected example supported by the right seasonal equipment and a practical plan for the roads you intend to drive.
More from the journal: Bentley Flying Spur W12: What All-Wheel Steering Changes for US Buyers.
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