Ferrari or Lamborghini? Like the Greeks against the Spartans, it’s one of the great divides of the ages. These two titans of the high-end automotive industry each have their benefits, but you can’t always go all-out and buy one of each at the same time. So which one is the best buy – or at least the best buy for you? We’re breaking things down and evaluating the pieces to help you out in what just might be the most important decision of your life.
MASCOT
Because nothing says more about a car than its mascot.
FERRARI: Ferrari is instantly recognizable by its prancing black stallion rearing up with the wind in its hair, a mascot which dates back to the 1920s when it was employed by Enzo Ferrari is a symbol of good luck inspired by horse races – fitting, considering Ferrari’s participation in motorsports. Today, the stallion as a symbol denotes not only speed and power, but agility and grace.
LAMBORGHINI: Born a Taurus, Ferruccio Lamborghini was known for a fascination with Spanish bullfighting tradition that carried over to the branding of his automobile line with a raging bull in the midst of a forward charge. Though bulls are certainly no slowpokes, this brand is all about power and strength… and maybe a little bit of self-indulgence.
ADVANTAGE: It's a draw – bold executives will likely appreciate the bull, while more subtle or superstitious hands may gravitate toward the pony.
LINEAGE
Sure, the names Ferrari and Lamborghini both inspire awe and envy – but what’s behind the subsidiary?
FERRARI: Holding 90 percent of market shares, Ferrari is squarely in the pocket of Fiat S.p.A. – an ownership which keeps the sporty Italian lineage pure. While Fiat may be known for itty bitty cars as its main stock in trade (who could forget the Cinquecento?) it also produces such enviable brands as Alfa Romeo and Maserati. Interest and even respect in the Fiat are also picking up in the United States, thanks to a major marketing push and celebrity endorsements.
LAMBORGHINI: Lamborghini is a fully-owned subsidiary, and has changed hands several times after its bankruptcy in 1978. Since 1998 the business has been in the stable of Audi AG, which itself is a subsidiary of Volkswagen AG. While you may be thinking of VW Bugs and Rabbits, Volkswagen Group is home to some of the most luxurious names in the automotive industry, including Bentley and Bugatti.
ADVANTAGE: Both have their ups and downs, but it’s hard to argue with a circle of brands that includes both Porsche and Bugatti. A Lamborghini shows that you know how to stay in with the in crowd.
Which brand will come out ahead in the end? Stay tuned for the thrilling conclusion in Ferrari vs. Lamborghini: FIGHT! Round Two!
