Vladimir Melnikov and Ferrari in Autoreview: how iconic reviews of Italian supercars were created

Vladimir Melnikov is a name that is heard by every car enthusiast who is passionate about journalism about cars. As editor-in-chief of a legendary magazine "Autoreview", it has shaped the tastes of several generations of motorists over the course of decades. But reviews occupy a special place in his career Ferrari - a brand that has become a symbol of speed, luxury and engineering excellence. These materials went beyond standard test drives: Melnikov did not just describe technical characteristics, but immersed the reader in the philosophy of Italian supercars, their history and the nuances that make each model unique.

In this article we will look at how Vladimir Melnikov approached testing Ferrari for "Autoreview", which models became the most memorable in his reviews, and why his opinion still remains authoritative for collectors and buyers of premium cars. You will also learn what to look for when choosing a used one. Ferrari — taking into account Melnikov’s expert recommendations and current market realities. If you've ever dreamed of a red supercar with an emblem "horse", this material will help you avoid common mistakes and understand whether the game is worth the candle.

Who is Vladimir Melnikov and why his opinion about Ferrari is valued by experts

Vladimir Melnikov is not just a journalist, but legend of the domestic automotive press. His career in "Autoreview" began in the 1990s, when the magazine was just gaining popularity, and continued for more than 20 years. During this time, he managed to work with hundreds of cars - from budget Zhiguli to exclusive Bugatti and Koenigsegg. But it's the reviews Ferrari distinguished him from other auto reviewers. Why?

Firstly, Melnikov had a rare combination technical expertise and literary talent. He could clearly explain how the active rear wing system works on Ferrari 458 Speciale, and at the same time it is fascinating to talk about the emotions caused by the sound of a V12 at high speeds. Secondly, he never succumbed to everyone’s admiration for the brand: if a model had shortcomings, he honestly pointed them out - be it reliability problems or inconvenient ergonomics.

• 📌 Education and Experience: Melnikov graduated from MADI (Moscow Automobile and Highway Institute), which gave him a deep understanding of engineering aspects.
• 🏆 Authority in the industry: His reviews were quoted by foreign publications, and even dealers of premium brands took his opinion into account.
• 🎤 Unique style: The combination of humor, technical details and personal impressions made his materials recognizable.

Interesting fact: Melnikov was one of the first Russian journalists to gain access to Ferrari Enzo (2002) and LaFerrari (2013) even before their official appearance on the market. His reviews of these hypercars are still considered benchmarks - not only because of his detailed analysis, but also due to his ability to convey that same feeling of “drive” that distinguishes Ferrari from other supercars.

The most famous Ferrari reviews from Vladimir Melnikov in Autoreview

Over the years of work at the magazine, Melnikov tested dozens of models Ferrari, but some reviews became real hits. They are still reread today, both for technical details and vivid descriptions. Here are the TOP 5 materials that every fan of Italian supercars should study:

1. Ferrari 360 Modena (2000) - a review where Melnikov called this model “the first truly modern Ferrari” thanks to the aluminum chassis and electronic assistants.
2. Ferrari F430 (2005) - material in which he compared it with its predecessor 360 Modena and noted the revolutionary system E-Diff (electronic differential).
3. Ferrari 458 Italia (2010) - here Melnikov disassembled the 4.5-liter V8 in detail and criticized the design of the front optics, which later became iconic.
4. Ferrari FF (2011) - a unique review of the first serial Ferrari with all-wheel drive and body shooting brake.
5. LaFerrari (2013) - perhaps the most emotional material, where he called the hybrid hypercar "the pinnacle of engineering."

These reviews are especially valuable for those who are considering buying a used one. Ferrari. Melnikov always focused on "diseases" of models, which appear over time. For example, in the review F430 he warned about problems with F1-box after 100,000 km, and in the material about 360 Modena — about corrosion of the aluminum body due to improper care.

Technical nuances that Melnikov paid attention to when testing Ferrari

Unlike many colleagues, Vladimir Melnikov never limited himself to standard acceleration and braking tests. He delved into the aspects that really matter to owners Ferrari - especially in the secondary market. Here are the key points he always checked:

Aspect	Why is this important	Example from Melnikov's reviews
Engine and transmission	Ferrari are known for their naturally aspirated engines, but they require special care. Boxes F1 (robotic) often fail when driven aggressively.	In review F430 he wrote: “If you hear a crunching sound when switching to cold, get ready for a repair for 10,000+ euros.”
Electronics and on-board computer	Systems Magneti Marelli older models are prone to failure, especially at low temperatures.	In the material about 599 GTB warned: “If the instrument panel flashes during startup, this is not a “feature”, but a reason to go to a diagnostician.”
Body and paintwork	Aluminum bodies 360/430 corrode if not washed properly. Paint on Ferrari thin and requires careful care.	“If you see bubbles under the varnish on the door sills, the car was wintered outside,” from the review 360 Spider.
Suspension and steering	Hydraulic power steering in models before 2010 often leaks. Shock absorbers Magneti Marelli “die” by 80,000 km.	“If the steering wheel becomes stiff in a parking lot, check the fluid level in the power steering reservoir,” advice from the test 575M Maranello.

Melnikov also paid attention service nuances. For example, he repeated more than once that official dealers Ferrari in Russia they often inflate prices for repairs, and advised me to look for proven independent services that specialize in Italian supercars. One of his mottos: “People buy Ferraris not to save money, but also not to go broke on repairs.”.

How Melnikov assessed Ferrari in comparison with competitors (Lamborghini, Porsche, McLaren)

Vladimir Melnikov has never limited himself to reviews of one brand. He often conducted comparison tests where Ferrari competed with Lamborghini, Porsche 911 Turbo or McLaren. His approach was unique: he did not just compare numbers, but analyzed philosophy of each brand.

For example, in the famous test Ferrari 458 Italia vs Lamborghini Gallardo LP570-4 Superleggera (2011) he wrote:

⚠️ Attention: “Ferrari is like opera singing: not only power is important here, but also the emotions that are conveyed by every revolution of the engine. Lamborghini is a rock concert: loud, aggressive and without undertones. The choice depends on what is closest to you.”

And in comparison Ferrari F12berlinetta with Porsche 911 Turbo S (2013) he focused on the fact that the German supercar is technically more advanced, but the Italian wins in terms of "feeling of exclusivity":

• 🔧 Porsche — reliability, predictability and possibility of daily use.
• 🎭 Ferrari - drive, sound and status, but with compromises in the form of high cost of ownership.

It is interesting that Melnikov often emphasized: Ferrari lose to competitors in some technical aspects (for example, McLaren have a more advanced suspension), but benefit due to emotional component. As he said: “No Porsche will make you smile like a Ferrari at high revs.”.

Vladimir Melnikov's advice on buying a used Ferrari

If you dream about Ferrari, but budget is limited, the used market is the only option. However, as Melnikov warned, there are more pitfalls here than in buying a new car. Here are his key recommendations that are still relevant today:

Melnikov always advised starting with models that are considered the most reliable on the secondary market. Topping his list were:

1. Ferrari 458 Italia (2009–2015) - the latest naturally aspirated V8, relatively reliable and marketable.
2. Ferrari California (2008–2014) - not as fast, but more practical and cheaper to maintain.
3. Ferrari 599 GTB (2006–2012) - V12 with good tuning potential, but requires careful maintenance.

But what models he advised to stay away from without a serious budget for repairs:

• ⚠️ Ferrari 360 Modena - problems with the box F1 and an aluminum body.
• ⚠️ Ferrari F430 — expensive repairs of suspension and electronics.
• ⚠️ Ferrari Testarossa (1980-1990s) - a classic, but with huge restoration costs.

One of Melnikov’s most valuable tips: never buy a Ferrari without testing it on the track. He told the story of how one of his friends bought F355 from photographs, and then it turned out that the engine was “smoking” at speeds above 5000 - the repair cost half the cost of the car.

How Ferrari reviews have changed since Melnikov left Autoreview

Vladimir Melnikov left the post of editor-in-chief "Autoreview" in 2015, but his influence on the magazine is still felt today. However, the review style Ferrari has changed noticeably. If previously the emphasis was on technical details and personal impressions, then now the materials have become more “glamorous” - with an emphasis on design, interior and status.

For example, in reviews Ferrari Portaofino (2018) or SF90 Stradale (2020) you will no longer find such deep analyzes as Melnikov’s. Modern journalists less often talk about:

• 🔧 Specific “diseases” of models (for example, problems with the hybrid system SF90).
• 💰 Real cost of ownership (how much does it cost to replace turbines or batteries in a hybrid).
• 📊 Comparisons with predecessors (how has the handling changed compared to 488 GTB).

This doesn't mean the new reviews are bad - they're just aimed at a different audience. Melnikov always wrote for pragmatic enthusiastswho want not only to show off their car, but also to understand it from the inside.

It is interesting that Melnikov himself, after leaving "Autoreview" I didn’t give up journalism. He leads his YouTube channel, where sometimes it returns to the topic Ferrari, and writes columns for foreign publications. His latest materials are devoted to Ferrari Daytona SP3 and 296 GTB — and they continue to stand out for their depth of analysis.

Where can you read Melnikov’s reviews of Ferrari today?

If you want to familiarize yourself with the original materials of Vladimir Melnikov, you have several options:

1. Archive "Autoreview" - on the official website of the magazine (autoreview.ru) some reviews are available, but the full database is paid.
2. Forums and communities - on Drive2 and FerrariChat users post scans of old issues with his materials.
3. Books and collections — Melnikov has published several books containing his best reviews, including tests Ferrari.
4. YouTube — his channel has video reviews where he comments on modern models and recalls old tests.

One of the most valuable resources is PDF archives of old issues of Autoreviewwhich are sometimes sold at Avito or in thematic groups Telegram. Rare materials can be found there, such as a comparison test Ferrari 550 Maranello vs Lamborghini Diablo VT (1999), which is considered a cult classic.

Where to look for rare reviews of Melnikov?

On the forum FerrariLife.ru There is a thread where users share scans of old reviews. You can also try writing directly to Melnikov on social networks - he sometimes sends materials upon request.

If you are lucky enough to find original magazines, pay attention to the section "Technical page" - Melnikov often published debriefings there Ferrari, which were not included in the main reviews. For example, in one of the issues he explained in detail why Ferrari 348 (1989–1995) is considered one of the most unreliable models in the history of the brand.

FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions about Vladimir Melnikov and his Ferrari reviews

🔹 Which Ferrari model did Vladimir Melnikov call his favorite?

In an interview in 2014, Melnikov said that his beloved Ferrari - this is 250 GTO (1962–1964), but among the models he tested, he singled out F40 (1987–1992) for its “honesty” and lack of electronics. He also highly appreciated 458 Speciale for the balance between handling and power.

🔹 Why did Melnikov criticize Ferrari California?

In review Ferrari California (2009), he noted that the car turned out to be too “universal” and lost that very “Ferrari” soul. His words: “It’s as if Rolls-Royce released a hatchback - technically excellent, but something is wrong.” He also criticized the 7-speed dual-clutch transmission for being slow compared to F1 in other models.

🔹 Where did Melnikov test Ferrari: on the track or in the city?

Melnikov always insisted on comprehensive testing. He started with urban conditions (testing ergonomics, visibility, comfort), then went on the track (dynamics, handling), and finally tested on closed tracks (limit modes). For example, LaFerrari he drove on Nürburgring, and FF checked on Russian winter roads.

🔹 How much does Ferrari service cost, according to Melnikov?

In one of his interviews, he gave the following figures (relevant for 2010–2015):

• 🔧 Replacing the timing belt with 458 Italia — ~300,000 rub.
• 🔧 Box overhaul F1 on F430 — from 1,000,000 rub.
• 🔧 Complete maintenance for California — ~150,000 rub. per year.

He emphasized that real cost of ownership can be 2-3 times these amounts if the machine has not been maintained correctly.

🔹 What Ferrari alternative did Melnikov recommend for daily driving?

Melnikov said more than once that Ferrari - This is not a car for everyday use. As alternatives, he advised:

• 🚗 Porsche 911 - more reliable, more practical and cheaper to maintain.
• 🚗 Aston Martin Vantage — just as stylish, but with a more comfortable suspension.
• 🚗 Jaguar F-Type R - similar V8 sound, but without Ferrari's problems.