The Dealer

By: Jim Ciardella

Narrated by: Tim Dixon

When Ferrari of Los Gatos opened, few people could afford an expensive sports car. In 1976, the average annual income was $12,686, and a new home cost about $48,000. Motorists in California could only buy gas on odd or even-numbered days based on the last digit of their license plate, due to the global oil crisis. Times were tough, and people were hesitant to take chances, especially with a car that cost more than a house. At the same time, Brian Burnett and his friend Richard Rivoir had the idea of starting a Ferrari dealership.

The Dealer is the story of how one dealership, Ferrari of Los Gatos, fueled the rise of the iconic Italian sports car in the U.S. market on its way to becoming the number one Ferrari dealer in North America. Even Enzo Ferrari himself took notice, flying Brian and the other dealers to Italy to show his appreciation for their success. Customers included movie stars, sports celebrities, entertainers, and some with unusual sources of income and a strong desire for a low profile.

©2022 Jim Ciardella (P)2022 Rowman & Littlefield

Ferrari’s and the 80s! Enough said.

What a cool story. More fascinating than I was expecting. Worth it just for the customer anecdotes. What a fun period of time!

Very enjoyable book!!!!!!

Really enjoyed this title. Worth it! Kept me interested Al the way through! Very unfortunate what Ferrari did to this dealer… but the story was exceptional!