Ferrari's contentious FF signalled a clear fork in the company's V12 GT development branch, with buyers able to choose between a more traditional Berlinetta GT Coupe (like the 599) and a more practical all-wheel drive shooting-brake approach exemplified by the FF.
Everyone's typical FF drive, right?
Ferrari's first production four-wheel drive model produces 660hp at an incredible 8,000rpm, accompanied by 504lb ft of torque - it reaches 62mph in just 3.7 seconds. An astonishingly capable car, the claimed top speed is 208mph.
Equipped with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission the FF used Ferrari's new 4RM system, which transfers torque to the front wheels when needed. This system is lighter than other four-wheel drive set-ups, which obviously benefits the FF's performance. And it also provides the ability to pre-empt wheelspin in bad conditions. However, when the going is good the FF remains completely rear-driven.
The FF shares design elements in common with other contemporary Ferraris, like the swept-back headlights of the 458 Italia, and the twin circular tail lights seen of the 458 and 599 GTB Fiorano. And boasts the best cabin space and occupant comfort in the segment - generous body-hugging seats ensure that all four of the FF's occupants enjoy the same standard of comfort, as well as access to the car's on-board entertainment.
Like the 458 Italia, you can tailor the FF's character with a steering wheel-mounted manettino. On the road, the FF for the most part feels surprisingly fleet of foot, despite weighing in close to 1,900kg. The ride is excellent, body roll well suppressed and the car's sharp steering makes the FF feel much smaller. However, the four-wheel drive system, which is largely unobtrusive, every now and then feels slightly gawky in corners.
'Shooting brake' probably preferable to 'bread van'
Gearchanges are efficient but a few owners have reported gearbox issues, which have been addressed by Ferrari. Later cars seem to have fewer problems.
There are just over 200 UK cars registered, and almost all will have covered a low mileage - with the cheapest selling for around £130,000. Being more modern in design the FF tends to appeal to the kind of buyer who wants guaranteed reliability, and plenty of modern options.
"Things like working satellite navigation and effective air-conditioning used to be deemed nice to have, rather than essential, on earlier V12s, but not the FF," Glass's Robert Redman reports. "The newer models like the FF are better suited to daily use, although sadly many will still be consigned to a life in a climate-controlled garage, with only occasional outings on high days and holidays."
Values are currently trickling downwards, partly due to the car's 'bread van' styling and its four-wheel drive transmission, which initially drew howls of protest from many diehard RWD Ferrari fans. There's no doubt the FF is the most contentious of recent Ferraris - a 'Marmite' car if ever there was one. But that man Chris Harris certainly enjoyed his time as an FF owner in 2014.
Buy if: money is no object and you regularly drive your family across the Alps
Don't buy if: you're seeking an affordable Ferrari that's always engaging to drive
We found: 2012 Ferrari FF, White, automatic, full service history, 16K miles, £142,000
Price Guide
Poor: Under £130,000
Good: £130,000 to £150,000
A1: £150,000+
Special Editions: 2016 UK cars currently sell for over £200,000