The name Ferrari has always been connected to speed and luxury. The car company got its start on the racetracks of Italy, and its racing heritage remains evident in Ferrari designs. Two models, the Roma and the Portofino M, are driver’s cars that offer timeless Ferrari design and high-end performance.

It’s debatable whether these entry-level prices can really be called affordable, but in the world of luxury performance vehicles and supercars, they qualify. Both are gorgeous, powerful, and in the upper echelon of the automotive world. In the battle of the affordable Ferraris, which comes out on top, the 2021 Ferrari Roma or the 2021 Ferrari Portofino M?

The 2021 Ferrari Portofino M

The Ferrari Portofino M is considered the brand’s entry-level model. The “M” stands for “modificata,” which means modified in Italian. The 2021 Ferrari Portofino M clocks in with a starting MSRP of $226,000. CNET reports there’s also a massive $141,356 in packages and customization options available on the 2+2 droptop. Customizations include bodywork elements, wheels and tires, exhaust pipes, and interior details.  

The “M” is the addition of a new drivetrain, a 3.9 liter twin-turbo V8 engine. This powerful engine is now mated to an all-new, dual-clutch, eight-speed transmission. Modified gear ratios offer Wet, Sport, Race, and Comfort modes for a customized driving experience depending on the weather and conditions.  

The Ferrari Portofino M features a power hardtop that folds down in a quick 15 seconds at speeds up to 30 mph. The interior combines sport and luxury beautifully, and tech upgrades include adaptive cruise control. Android Auto and Apple Car Play integration allow you to connect your phone to the massive central touchscreen. However, these options run high, as just smartphone connectivity adds $4,219.

The 2021 Ferrari Roma

A grand tourer built for auto enthusiasts, the 2021 Ferrari Roma offers refinement at the “affordable” MSRP of $222,420. Its base price is slightly less expensive than the comparable Portofino M, although CNET points out that Roma’s available functional and visual options can launch the price up to $316,240.

The Roma has the same 2+2 configuration as the Portofino, but it is almost three inches longer and about two inches wider. The Roma is also 200 pounds lighter, making for a nimble ride on the highway. There’s even a decent-sized trunk for a luxury performance coupe. Tech improvements include the 8.4-inch vertical touchscreen for climate control and infotainment systems.

The 2021 Ferrari Roma has a classic, sleek design that eliminates any extra elements. Balanced proportions and aerodynamics are enhanced by a mobile rear spoiler that takes nothing from the car’s design when retracted. Custom colors include historical choices, like Roso Dino and Blu Swaters. Elsewhere, wheel options include Forged Matt Grigio Corsa Diamond Cut Rims. 

Which is the best affordable supercar from the brand?

Both the Ferrari Roma and Portofino M are vehicles with timeless design and stunning performance. They also share the same drivetrain and transmission. However, given the lower price and long list of features, the 2021 Ferrari Roma comes out on top. Even though the differences are slight, it has more interior room and is more lightweight. 

The Roma has classic Ferrari lines based on the old GT and has new, groundbreaking technology. Even though it isn’t as flashy as the hardtop Portofino, it offers the solid quality that defines the Italian brand. Coming in at a starting MSRP of $222,420, it’s an “affordable” Ferrari that sacrifices nothing in terms of classic style, performance, and refinement.