Mir's Garage - Supercars, old cars, and wagons
Discussion
Hi all,
Have multiple threads on the goings and comings in the garage, but with the most recent potential addition, I've come to the conclusion updating several threads is an excercise in futility, and I constantly lose track of stuff/struggle to keep each thread updated. Not the biggest garage in the world, but for the sake of time condensing the cars into one garage thread is probably for the best.
So, currently in the garage are the following -
1) Panamera Sport Turismo Turbo - daily, dog hauling, stuff hauling, so on. Really pleased with this thing, more can be found in it's old thread: https://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=0&...
2) SLS AMG - fun, unruly, boisterous - a very entertaining drive. Doors have incredible drama and otherwise it's also a fabulous cruiser. Old thread: https://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=0&...
3) 1985 '911 Hotrod. Has a 964 RS Cup engine, Tuthill suspension - the purest drive I've ever experienced, but limited to "nice days" as generally is a point A to point A car. Enjoying it quite a lot the rare times I do get in it, though. But it does make me wonder how long I'll keep it around. Old thread: https://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=0&...
Now, inbound is a car I've wanted for many, many years. I've always had a deep fascination with the mid-engined, Ferrari V8 specials. Something about these cars have occupied more brain space than I care to admit. Finally, I find myself in the position to acquire one after many, many years. So, I've made an offer on a car that has subsequently been accepted. I'm going to head down tomorrow to check it out, as the color/spec is really uncommon and the local dealer didn't have a paint sample to hand. I've chosen to go for the 488 Pista, given the prices have started to come downward and I personally find it the most appealing of the lot. (I know, I know, Speciale but... I guess I'll do another small post talking about why.)
If the car looks as good as I think in the metal, then I'll close the deal and look to pick the car up in the new year.
Anyway, I will use this as a central repository for stuff going and coming. I expect I will see the SLS leave sometime this year and I'm looking to replace it with an 812 sometime after the middle of the year. For right now, the ethos I have is to have as many "different" experiences as possible in the garage. In that light, once the Pista is in place, I will have front engined, mid engined, and rear engined cars - along with N/A and Turbo representation. A good variety and all very different affairs.
Have multiple threads on the goings and comings in the garage, but with the most recent potential addition, I've come to the conclusion updating several threads is an excercise in futility, and I constantly lose track of stuff/struggle to keep each thread updated. Not the biggest garage in the world, but for the sake of time condensing the cars into one garage thread is probably for the best.
So, currently in the garage are the following -
1) Panamera Sport Turismo Turbo - daily, dog hauling, stuff hauling, so on. Really pleased with this thing, more can be found in it's old thread: https://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=0&...
2) SLS AMG - fun, unruly, boisterous - a very entertaining drive. Doors have incredible drama and otherwise it's also a fabulous cruiser. Old thread: https://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=0&...
3) 1985 '911 Hotrod. Has a 964 RS Cup engine, Tuthill suspension - the purest drive I've ever experienced, but limited to "nice days" as generally is a point A to point A car. Enjoying it quite a lot the rare times I do get in it, though. But it does make me wonder how long I'll keep it around. Old thread: https://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=0&...
Now, inbound is a car I've wanted for many, many years. I've always had a deep fascination with the mid-engined, Ferrari V8 specials. Something about these cars have occupied more brain space than I care to admit. Finally, I find myself in the position to acquire one after many, many years. So, I've made an offer on a car that has subsequently been accepted. I'm going to head down tomorrow to check it out, as the color/spec is really uncommon and the local dealer didn't have a paint sample to hand. I've chosen to go for the 488 Pista, given the prices have started to come downward and I personally find it the most appealing of the lot. (I know, I know, Speciale but... I guess I'll do another small post talking about why.)
If the car looks as good as I think in the metal, then I'll close the deal and look to pick the car up in the new year.
Anyway, I will use this as a central repository for stuff going and coming. I expect I will see the SLS leave sometime this year and I'm looking to replace it with an 812 sometime after the middle of the year. For right now, the ethos I have is to have as many "different" experiences as possible in the garage. In that light, once the Pista is in place, I will have front engined, mid engined, and rear engined cars - along with N/A and Turbo representation. A good variety and all very different affairs.
Edited by mirsgarage on Thursday 21st December 21:20
So, the question - why Pista and not one of the other fabled V8 specials?
There are a few to choose from. 360CS, Scud, Speciale, or Pista. All were up for consideration with the various pros and cons, but ultimately, it comes down to what tugs at your nut strings the hardest.
I never really "got" the CS or Scud. They do sound a damn sight nicer than the Speciale or Pista, the Scud especially - but I just can't wrap my head around the way they look. A bit shallow of me, perhaps, but if I'm spending the money - I'd like to look at the car and to be blown away. Drive wise, well, I hear the CS and Scud are much more agricultural drive, which is a good thing in several respects - but having the SLS, I think I'm covered for that, and I'm looking for a lot of competence in the drive, in addition to "emotion".
Speciale or Pista then.
I think the majority would sit there screaming: "Speciale!", and bizarrely, when I was initially obsessed with the idea of a V8 special, it started with the Speciale. I was besotted by the looks, the sound, and the idea of the drive (I've never driven any of these fwiw, not even for 5 minutes). It also came out in that magic period of time we all individually have, when you're at a certain point or age and cars etch themselves into your head. That's the Speciale for me. A few years ago, when the Pista first came out, I recall having a conversation with George, a friend of mine, in which I said: "You'd have to be mad to buy a Pista over a Speciale", and here I am. Doesn't help the praise that's been heaped on the car, and on top of that, the whole "last of the NA V8s" helps my nostalgia factor (and the values)! But, here enters the first problem - I like to put miles on the car, and the value loss from a primo speciale with good spec is atrocious when you start piling on usage.
Now, the Pista suffers the same problem, albeit with the prices being depressed, I am hoping to mitigate as much of this as possible by buying now and selling it whenever the economy is doing a litlte better (whenever that may be - if I ever sell my first Ferrari at all!) - now I'm not expecting to get away with free mileage, or with a profit. I'm just looking to mitigate loss, a fact of life.
But that isn't the primary reason I went Pista - Doing a lot of reading and perusing through various forums, reviews, videos etc - I found the general consensus was that the Pista was a more competent car - and the Speciale a more playful car. The one thing I had struggled with recognising (just down to peer pressure or the desire to not be a contrarian), was that I didn't actually like the way the Speciale sounds. Having heard it a few times in person, it's nice, don't get me wrong. But it's not soulful, or anything like the Scud. So, from that perspective there was a major factor removed. Each their own and all that, I appreciate I will quite possibly be completely on my own in this POV. I also have heard from several who owned both that the Pista upped the game in quality and refinement. Do you even look at refinement in a car like this? Probably, because I do intend on doing some long haul driving. Finding a balance was what I was after. Again, point, Pista.
Then, finally, the superficial part - but to my eyes after a few years, looking at both cars side to side.. It's no competition. The Pista is achingly beautiful. It looks like this utterly wonderful amalgamation of engineering and pure artistry. The Speciale, although pretty, isn't nearly as good looking in my opinion. Lots to look at in both cars, but the sculpture on the Pista just draws my eyes in. It's a bit more sinuous.
So, ultimately in terms of the use-case, the Pista fit the bill much better. I'd use the car for european trips, alps driving, so on so forth. Already booked on two tours next year tackling Spain and Portugal. And then, the odd track day (potentially - depending on insurance). Nothing insane, but maybe one or two a year, depending on how much time I have. I do intend on using the car as it was meant to be used.
All that's left to do, really, is go get the car..
There are a few to choose from. 360CS, Scud, Speciale, or Pista. All were up for consideration with the various pros and cons, but ultimately, it comes down to what tugs at your nut strings the hardest.
I never really "got" the CS or Scud. They do sound a damn sight nicer than the Speciale or Pista, the Scud especially - but I just can't wrap my head around the way they look. A bit shallow of me, perhaps, but if I'm spending the money - I'd like to look at the car and to be blown away. Drive wise, well, I hear the CS and Scud are much more agricultural drive, which is a good thing in several respects - but having the SLS, I think I'm covered for that, and I'm looking for a lot of competence in the drive, in addition to "emotion".
Speciale or Pista then.
I think the majority would sit there screaming: "Speciale!", and bizarrely, when I was initially obsessed with the idea of a V8 special, it started with the Speciale. I was besotted by the looks, the sound, and the idea of the drive (I've never driven any of these fwiw, not even for 5 minutes). It also came out in that magic period of time we all individually have, when you're at a certain point or age and cars etch themselves into your head. That's the Speciale for me. A few years ago, when the Pista first came out, I recall having a conversation with George, a friend of mine, in which I said: "You'd have to be mad to buy a Pista over a Speciale", and here I am. Doesn't help the praise that's been heaped on the car, and on top of that, the whole "last of the NA V8s" helps my nostalgia factor (and the values)! But, here enters the first problem - I like to put miles on the car, and the value loss from a primo speciale with good spec is atrocious when you start piling on usage.
Now, the Pista suffers the same problem, albeit with the prices being depressed, I am hoping to mitigate as much of this as possible by buying now and selling it whenever the economy is doing a litlte better (whenever that may be - if I ever sell my first Ferrari at all!) - now I'm not expecting to get away with free mileage, or with a profit. I'm just looking to mitigate loss, a fact of life.
But that isn't the primary reason I went Pista - Doing a lot of reading and perusing through various forums, reviews, videos etc - I found the general consensus was that the Pista was a more competent car - and the Speciale a more playful car. The one thing I had struggled with recognising (just down to peer pressure or the desire to not be a contrarian), was that I didn't actually like the way the Speciale sounds. Having heard it a few times in person, it's nice, don't get me wrong. But it's not soulful, or anything like the Scud. So, from that perspective there was a major factor removed. Each their own and all that, I appreciate I will quite possibly be completely on my own in this POV. I also have heard from several who owned both that the Pista upped the game in quality and refinement. Do you even look at refinement in a car like this? Probably, because I do intend on doing some long haul driving. Finding a balance was what I was after. Again, point, Pista.
Then, finally, the superficial part - but to my eyes after a few years, looking at both cars side to side.. It's no competition. The Pista is achingly beautiful. It looks like this utterly wonderful amalgamation of engineering and pure artistry. The Speciale, although pretty, isn't nearly as good looking in my opinion. Lots to look at in both cars, but the sculpture on the Pista just draws my eyes in. It's a bit more sinuous.
So, ultimately in terms of the use-case, the Pista fit the bill much better. I'd use the car for european trips, alps driving, so on so forth. Already booked on two tours next year tackling Spain and Portugal. And then, the odd track day (potentially - depending on insurance). Nothing insane, but maybe one or two a year, depending on how much time I have. I do intend on using the car as it was meant to be used.
All that's left to do, really, is go get the car..
TheDoggingFather said:
A lovely collection you've got there, I shall follow with interest.
Mr Tidy said:
That's a great collection - looking forward to the updates. 
Many thanks fellas!Cloudy147 said:
Nice cars! Great choices!
How do you get on with changing the cars if you still like them? You noted you want to try as many car experiences as possible.
Reason I ask, I had the same plan, but I’ve found the two garage cars I have i really really like! Consequently I don’t really want to sell… but still want to try new experiences! But I can’t do both!
Regardless, I’m looking forward to your updates on the collection, and thanks for sharing!
Ah, this happens naturally. I have been diagnosed with pretty strong ADHD, I invariably want to try something different.How do you get on with changing the cars if you still like them? You noted you want to try as many car experiences as possible.
Reason I ask, I had the same plan, but I’ve found the two garage cars I have i really really like! Consequently I don’t really want to sell… but still want to try new experiences! But I can’t do both!
Regardless, I’m looking forward to your updates on the collection, and thanks for sharing!
But, it also happens for me - the pull of trying something new is stronger than the pull of sticking with something. I will say though that it was difficult, the first few. I am also quite emotional about my stuff, so chopping and changing stuff, at the beginning, was usually quite a sentimental affair. I found it's become less so over time!
BrettMRC said:
Nice collection OP
Are you the same Mir that used to have the 20B FD?
Thank you Are you the same Mir that used to have the 20B FD?
And unfortunately, I am not!
Dr G said:
I enjoyed reading your musings on the 488.
Any hints on the colour combo? The many variants of red/cream have never done anything for me on an F car.
I'm gonna go with a wait and see - but funnily it's not too far off what you're talking about, just different shades - but the combination of it coming together is.. delicious. Any hints on the colour combo? The many variants of red/cream have never done anything for me on an F car.
jeremyc said:
mirsgarage said:
I invariably want to try something different.
But, it also happens for me - the pull of trying something new is stronger than the pull of sticking with something.
Maybe consider joining Auto Vivendi or similar?But, it also happens for me - the pull of trying something new is stronger than the pull of sticking with something.
A whole fleet of desirable cars at your disposal, refreshed regularly.
Auto Vivendi website said:
Current Collection:
Aston Martin DBS Superleggera Volante
Aston Martin DBX707
Bentley Continental GTC Mulliner
Dodge Challenger SRT Jailbreak
Ferrari 296 GTB
Ferrari 296 GTS
Ferrari 812 GTS
Ferrari 812 GTS
Ferrari Roma
Ferrari SF90 Spider
Ferrari SF90 Stradale
Lamborghini Aventador SV
Lamborghini Huracán Sterrato
Lamborghini Huracán STO
Lamborghini Huracán STO
Lamborghini Urus Performante
Lamborghini Urus S
Maserati MC20 Cielo
McLaren Artura
McLaren 765LT Spider
McLaren 720S Spider
Mercedes G63 Magno Edition
Morgan Super 3
Porsche 911 (992) Targa 4 GTS
Porsche 911 (992) Turbo S
Porsche 911 (992) Turbo S Cabriolet
Rolls-Royce Cullinan
Range Rover Vogue P400 Autobiography
Superformance Shelby MKIII Cobra
Aston Martin DBS Superleggera Volante
Aston Martin DBX707
Bentley Continental GTC Mulliner
Dodge Challenger SRT Jailbreak
Ferrari 296 GTB
Ferrari 296 GTS
Ferrari 812 GTS
Ferrari 812 GTS
Ferrari Roma
Ferrari SF90 Spider
Ferrari SF90 Stradale
Lamborghini Aventador SV
Lamborghini Huracán Sterrato
Lamborghini Huracán STO
Lamborghini Huracán STO
Lamborghini Urus Performante
Lamborghini Urus S
Maserati MC20 Cielo
McLaren Artura
McLaren 765LT Spider
McLaren 720S Spider
Mercedes G63 Magno Edition
Morgan Super 3
Porsche 911 (992) Targa 4 GTS
Porsche 911 (992) Turbo S
Porsche 911 (992) Turbo S Cabriolet
Rolls-Royce Cullinan
Range Rover Vogue P400 Autobiography
Superformance Shelby MKIII Cobra
Righto - so update time.
Looooved the spec of the car in person, so the deal will go on. Collection will be first or second week of January I think. I'm so pleased with the find, and the process. Dealers have been lovely to deal with. Carrs Exeter, my local, are simply excellent, as is the supplying dealer.
Uno problemo, though. The car comes with carbon wheels. Those are absolutely coming off, and being put on the wall as a bit of art. Very cool and I completely understand the intent - but I don't feel they'll be super suitable given I do want to put some miles on this thing, replacing them at £8k a single wheel is a bit much, so I intent on putting them back on should I ever take the car to track.
For now, I've set the fellas at Carrs the task of getting me some OEM rims - I'm thinking I will paint them bright silver. I'm a bit over black/greys, but I'm also not sure what will suit the car better.
Looooved the spec of the car in person, so the deal will go on. Collection will be first or second week of January I think. I'm so pleased with the find, and the process. Dealers have been lovely to deal with. Carrs Exeter, my local, are simply excellent, as is the supplying dealer.
Uno problemo, though. The car comes with carbon wheels. Those are absolutely coming off, and being put on the wall as a bit of art. Very cool and I completely understand the intent - but I don't feel they'll be super suitable given I do want to put some miles on this thing, replacing them at £8k a single wheel is a bit much, so I intent on putting them back on should I ever take the car to track.
For now, I've set the fellas at Carrs the task of getting me some OEM rims - I'm thinking I will paint them bright silver. I'm a bit over black/greys, but I'm also not sure what will suit the car better.
So, some musings on the SLS then - a quiet afternoon here, OH in bed with a hangover and all dogs asleep.
I've had the car 1.5yrs now, or thereabouts. I think it's an extremely personable, likeable car. I also think, in the future, these cars are going to be worth more than they are today - how far in the future, no idea, but perhaps in 20 years I'll come back to this post and go: "Called it!"
It also helps I still find it beautiful. It's a simple form. Lovely shape, good proportions. This is, of course, true to the later cars (AMG GTS, etc) also - but the gullwing doors then add a final dash of spice to the entire construct. I think it's aged rather gracefully. The lack of over-complication on the design has helped with that quite significantly - but it definitely does feel it's age in the drive (not a bad thing) and the interior. You can retrofit carplay, which helps a little, but doesn't quite fix the entire problem. However, I do think the interior has aged well enough it's not a noticable problem.
So, like I said a few posts above - I like to jump in and out of cars. The SLS then? Brilliant, but not long term if you have a smaller garage. Let me expand. I think everyone at or around this sort of vehicle value should experience owning the car for a little while. It's a very different experience to the typical Lamborghini, Ferrari, or McLaren. Of all the cars in this sort of ~ £180k range, the SLS stands relatively unique. The cruiser/brutal switch you can incite is quite something, and I've never driven a car like this with all the qualites the SLS puts together.
Now, if I had a garage of 10+ Supercars, the SLS would certainly feature. But with enough space for 2 supercars, in that context, it's not a lifer. But it is a very convincing vehicle and I'm very glad I got to enjoy it! It will probably leave at some point in 2024, I do have an interested friend looking to purchase the car, so we'll see how that goes.
What to replace it with? Well, based on the "rules" of the garage, since the Pista is inbound, I have a spot for something front engined. Pista is turbocharged, so I want something naturally aspirated. Currently, I'm leaning toward the 812. But we'll see as the year goes on!
I've had the car 1.5yrs now, or thereabouts. I think it's an extremely personable, likeable car. I also think, in the future, these cars are going to be worth more than they are today - how far in the future, no idea, but perhaps in 20 years I'll come back to this post and go: "Called it!"
It also helps I still find it beautiful. It's a simple form. Lovely shape, good proportions. This is, of course, true to the later cars (AMG GTS, etc) also - but the gullwing doors then add a final dash of spice to the entire construct. I think it's aged rather gracefully. The lack of over-complication on the design has helped with that quite significantly - but it definitely does feel it's age in the drive (not a bad thing) and the interior. You can retrofit carplay, which helps a little, but doesn't quite fix the entire problem. However, I do think the interior has aged well enough it's not a noticable problem.
So, like I said a few posts above - I like to jump in and out of cars. The SLS then? Brilliant, but not long term if you have a smaller garage. Let me expand. I think everyone at or around this sort of vehicle value should experience owning the car for a little while. It's a very different experience to the typical Lamborghini, Ferrari, or McLaren. Of all the cars in this sort of ~ £180k range, the SLS stands relatively unique. The cruiser/brutal switch you can incite is quite something, and I've never driven a car like this with all the qualites the SLS puts together.
Now, if I had a garage of 10+ Supercars, the SLS would certainly feature. But with enough space for 2 supercars, in that context, it's not a lifer. But it is a very convincing vehicle and I'm very glad I got to enjoy it! It will probably leave at some point in 2024, I do have an interested friend looking to purchase the car, so we'll see how that goes.
What to replace it with? Well, based on the "rules" of the garage, since the Pista is inbound, I have a spot for something front engined. Pista is turbocharged, so I want something naturally aspirated. Currently, I'm leaning toward the 812. But we'll see as the year goes on!
Ah cheers all, really appreciate the kind words!
So far only driven the normal 488 for 15 minutes, and the 296 more extensively over a couple of days.
MTW said:
Great thread, I’m a big fan of your 911. That thing looks pretty much perfect!
Great choice with the pista, a client of mine has one. I have only ever driven it about 10mph around a car park a couple of times, but I have never experienced a car that shows its intent so much even just trundling around a car park! It feels like you are directly bolted to the floor when you are sat in it and the steering feels almost unassisted but completely direct. I can only imagine how good the car feels at speed! I look forward to seeing some photos once you have picked it up!
Very excited about this - I've never been in any Ferrari special yet, not even as a passenger, so my first experience is going to be driving the car out of the showroom!Great choice with the pista, a client of mine has one. I have only ever driven it about 10mph around a car park a couple of times, but I have never experienced a car that shows its intent so much even just trundling around a car park! It feels like you are directly bolted to the floor when you are sat in it and the steering feels almost unassisted but completely direct. I can only imagine how good the car feels at speed! I look forward to seeing some photos once you have picked it up!
So far only driven the normal 488 for 15 minutes, and the 296 more extensively over a couple of days.
So, cat out the bag as I'm having sleepless nights thinking about it and my OH is sick to death hearing about the car - this is the Pista I've done a deal on. I was actually dead set on another car before it sold - a friend found this one and sent over the listing and I simply fell in love with it. Imho the spec is just awesome, the color is super unique and I'm absolutely besotted.
Car is in Rosso Coburn, with Pelle Bianca interior with black Alcantara. The whole thing is a fusion of off-palette options and it's right up my alley. I was looking for a triple-layer red and the car I was set on before this was Rosso Fuoco. Having now seen both, Coburn is JUST right, albeit incredibly rare. Carbon all the things, including the wheels - but I'm gonna get a normal set of OEM Pista alloys to run the car on, purely because I don't fancy £8k per corner to replace these carbon works of art.
Collection in early Jan. I doubt I'll have a single good night's sleep until then.
Car is in Rosso Coburn, with Pelle Bianca interior with black Alcantara. The whole thing is a fusion of off-palette options and it's right up my alley. I was looking for a triple-layer red and the car I was set on before this was Rosso Fuoco. Having now seen both, Coburn is JUST right, albeit incredibly rare. Carbon all the things, including the wheels - but I'm gonna get a normal set of OEM Pista alloys to run the car on, purely because I don't fancy £8k per corner to replace these carbon works of art.
Collection in early Jan. I doubt I'll have a single good night's sleep until then.
Given people are already going to think I'm a weapons grade w
ker for driving around in a candy apple red Ferrari, I've decided to complete the image with a little cherry on top.
Won this on collecting cars yesterday.
I went for "6 AST" for the SLS as well, but sadly it went a bit too far for me. If whoever bought it is reading - well bid. Bit of a war at the end. Much cursing was had from me. If you ever want to get rid of it, please reach out!
I know it seems like it's an attempt to spell "FAST" - but actually those are my initials so I couldn't give a toss what number is in front of it!
Anyway, maximum wker achieved. I am proud.
ker for driving around in a candy apple red Ferrari, I've decided to complete the image with a little cherry on top.Won this on collecting cars yesterday.
I went for "6 AST" for the SLS as well, but sadly it went a bit too far for me. If whoever bought it is reading - well bid. Bit of a war at the end. Much cursing was had from me. If you ever want to get rid of it, please reach out!
I know it seems like it's an attempt to spell "FAST" - but actually those are my initials so I couldn't give a toss what number is in front of it!
Anyway, maximum w
ker achieved. I am proud.CQ8 said:
Congratulations on the Pista, I think it looks absolutely stunning. What a colour combination.
I also love the 911, I looked at an ad for that car before you bought it and it's pretty much the perfect spec for one of those. Not the right time for me to buy but glad it's gone to a good home. Miss my 84 3.2 RSR rep.
Thanks bud! That car looks properly MEAN. Love it! The ad really did sell me, but the seller sold me more - Simeon is a great guy, he's built a very nice car and he was super upfront about it. We're in touch even now, planning a road trip together at some point, but I'm gonna let him take the old girl out and I'll follow along in the Pista! I also love the 911, I looked at an ad for that car before you bought it and it's pretty much the perfect spec for one of those. Not the right time for me to buy but glad it's gone to a good home. Miss my 84 3.2 RSR rep.
I'll drop ya a message when I'm thinking of swapping the car out for something else, but not super soon - potentially end of 2024 or after Summer 2025. Already looking at Plymouth Roadrunners with 383s in them.. ADHD is a proper menace..
Mr Tidy said:
That looks stunning.
Some Christmas present to yourself!
Many thanks! It was a long year but this definitely ended it with a bang!Some Christmas present to yourself!
samoht said:
Pista looks great! I think I saw one at Hampton Court in a similar colour, I was surprised/impressed how well resolved and purposeful they look in the metal. I agree on the colour too, red but much classier than the normal Ferrari reds. Let us know how you find it to drive.
For sure! Not a fan of Rosso Corsa after they switched it to being water based. Lost some lustre to my eye, or it could be a placebo - either way! Triple layer is the way to go on these, with their complex lines and what not. On that note - a small general update, I've paid for the car now in full, delivery scheduled for next week. Car will be brought down to Carrs either Friday or Monday for it's PDI and general check over.
I've also ordered a set of the OEM wheels in silver, and instead of the Cup 2s that are on the car already - I ordered some PS4Ss to go on the car because I drive in all weather, and living in the UK more often that not that means damp, cold days. Will take delivery of the car with the Carbons + Cups 2s on, but I'll swap them out when the new rims land (7-10 days ETA).
Excitement is now an understatement, although between the plate and the car, I am FEELING the pain, hahaha!
So, I took delivery on Friday and have spent the whole weekend driving around aimlessly and having a ball.
This thing is just different gravy. I mean, I've owned some nice stuff in the past, and currently have the SLS. But this is the first time, for me at least, that I've gotten in a car and just felt it was holistically great. It's also the first time I've gotten in something and felt so comfortable with the various inputs (throttle, steering, brakes) so quickly. This is what I mean by holistically great, the car just feels like exactly what I was looking for. It surpassed expectations in some places - for example, the ride is just superb compared to what I was expecting. The damping is lovely, it's firm but never uncomfortable, like having a tight pillow over an anvil. Bumpy road mode does slacken things off a fraction, so that's definitely nice for our British roads.
The turn in is ferocious. I haven't pushed the car, but you can really sense the urgency and obediency it turns in with. Point, and it will go, even in a 1 degree drizzle. The steering is not as light as I expected, and I liked that. It's still very agile feeling - but just feels calibrated to perfection. It reads your intent and translates it to motion. Lighter than most other supercars, but that's no bad thing. It does really like following cambers and tramlining, but never to the point of hyperactivity I feel.
Mid corner the chassis feels so sweet when it's loaded up, planted and pliable. The SLS feels like you're sort of holding on, but the Pista makes you feel like your ahole is sucking the car down to the ground.
Power deployment is... terrifying. Not dug into the throttle past 20-25% and found wheelspin in 4th at 75mph, leading to a sideways moment on the motorway. Conditions not quite appropriate yet, I feel.
I actually really enjoy the sound it makes too. Loads of induction behind your ears, and the exhaust sound is sonorous and deep, at the top end it doesn't quite get into a howl, but it's plenty bloody enjoyable.
Finally, the gearbox is just artwork. You can play it, up and down, like a musical instrument. The absolute kick in the head it gives you on an upshift is addictive. It's unbelievably rapid. My favorite activity at the moment is race on the manettino, and then 45mph - 6th, 5th, 4th. Click, click, click and it just hammers down the box instantly. It gives you a real appreciation for the engineering. I've never experienced anything like it.
Safe to say, I'm smitten - and immediately. That's a first for me. I will add more expansive thoughts when I've had a chance to actually push the car a little.
So far, I've covered 500 miles. So, more than 25% of the mileage the last owner did in 3.5 years. Done in 3 days. The car is caked in mud, crap, and salt. I'm loving it.
This thing is just different gravy. I mean, I've owned some nice stuff in the past, and currently have the SLS. But this is the first time, for me at least, that I've gotten in a car and just felt it was holistically great. It's also the first time I've gotten in something and felt so comfortable with the various inputs (throttle, steering, brakes) so quickly. This is what I mean by holistically great, the car just feels like exactly what I was looking for. It surpassed expectations in some places - for example, the ride is just superb compared to what I was expecting. The damping is lovely, it's firm but never uncomfortable, like having a tight pillow over an anvil. Bumpy road mode does slacken things off a fraction, so that's definitely nice for our British roads.
The turn in is ferocious. I haven't pushed the car, but you can really sense the urgency and obediency it turns in with. Point, and it will go, even in a 1 degree drizzle. The steering is not as light as I expected, and I liked that. It's still very agile feeling - but just feels calibrated to perfection. It reads your intent and translates it to motion. Lighter than most other supercars, but that's no bad thing. It does really like following cambers and tramlining, but never to the point of hyperactivity I feel.
Mid corner the chassis feels so sweet when it's loaded up, planted and pliable. The SLS feels like you're sort of holding on, but the Pista makes you feel like your a
hole is sucking the car down to the ground. Power deployment is... terrifying. Not dug into the throttle past 20-25% and found wheelspin in 4th at 75mph, leading to a sideways moment on the motorway. Conditions not quite appropriate yet, I feel.
I actually really enjoy the sound it makes too. Loads of induction behind your ears, and the exhaust sound is sonorous and deep, at the top end it doesn't quite get into a howl, but it's plenty bloody enjoyable.
Finally, the gearbox is just artwork. You can play it, up and down, like a musical instrument. The absolute kick in the head it gives you on an upshift is addictive. It's unbelievably rapid. My favorite activity at the moment is race on the manettino, and then 45mph - 6th, 5th, 4th. Click, click, click and it just hammers down the box instantly. It gives you a real appreciation for the engineering. I've never experienced anything like it.
Safe to say, I'm smitten - and immediately. That's a first for me. I will add more expansive thoughts when I've had a chance to actually push the car a little.
So far, I've covered 500 miles. So, more than 25% of the mileage the last owner did in 3.5 years. Done in 3 days. The car is caked in mud, crap, and salt. I'm loving it.
Thanks guys!
This is a bit of a.. weird/soppy story I guess. I don't want to seem like an idiot but also, primarily, I am big on karma and "what goes around comes around". Many, many moons ago my startup wasn't going so great and things seemed pretty bleak, I was more or less on the brink of calling it a day and quitting, having expended most of the money I had. I decided to go down to Carrs (back when they had the older building across the road from MB) completely out of the blue to remind myself what I was aspiring towards. In my mind spending a bit of time around these cars would inspire me and give me a little kick up the backside. Back then the F12 was brand-spankin new. They were so kind. I made it clear to them, I'm having a tough time in life - things aren't great, and I just wanted to remind myself of "the dream". I got handed the keys to the F12 demo and told to spend as much time as I wanted inside and out of it (no driving obviously). I sat in that car for 10 minutes just drinking the whole thing in. Just me and the car, no one hovering around or anything. They let me fire it up too. Sounded amazing..
Always told myself when it was time, it had to be Carrs. They took a commission from me on this sale, but they earned it all those years ago with the small kindness they showed me when I really needed it
The second, more pragmatic reason, was to build a relationship with my local dealer - I'm trying to angle toward getting the 812 replacement, so we'll see how that goes.
GCCP said:
Love the Pista! there is nothing quite like that "Ferrari Feeling" - nothing feels close to it, you just have to try it to understand
Curious though, how come you had it sent from Meridien to Carrs instead of direct to you?
GP
Yeah, those Italians know how to build a damn fine car, that's for sure. Curious though, how come you had it sent from Meridien to Carrs instead of direct to you?
GP
This is a bit of a.. weird/soppy story I guess. I don't want to seem like an idiot but also, primarily, I am big on karma and "what goes around comes around". Many, many moons ago my startup wasn't going so great and things seemed pretty bleak, I was more or less on the brink of calling it a day and quitting, having expended most of the money I had. I decided to go down to Carrs (back when they had the older building across the road from MB) completely out of the blue to remind myself what I was aspiring towards. In my mind spending a bit of time around these cars would inspire me and give me a little kick up the backside. Back then the F12 was brand-spankin new. They were so kind. I made it clear to them, I'm having a tough time in life - things aren't great, and I just wanted to remind myself of "the dream". I got handed the keys to the F12 demo and told to spend as much time as I wanted inside and out of it (no driving obviously). I sat in that car for 10 minutes just drinking the whole thing in. Just me and the car, no one hovering around or anything. They let me fire it up too. Sounded amazing..
Always told myself when it was time, it had to be Carrs. They took a commission from me on this sale, but they earned it all those years ago with the small kindness they showed me when I really needed it
The second, more pragmatic reason, was to build a relationship with my local dealer - I'm trying to angle toward getting the 812 replacement, so we'll see how that goes.
Miocene said:
Funnily enough I saw this in Meridian before Christmas and even the wife commented what a lovely colour it was!
Congratulations, enjoy it!
Small world! I went down on the 22nd to seal the deal! Congratulations, enjoy it!
Anyway, I really mucked up the car in the last few days. Having covered 541 miles in a matter of 4 days, the car was covered in a cake of salt, road grime, and who knows what else. I've been daily driving the car so it's probably time for it to get a little TLC. Took it down to Dave at Knight Detailing who generally sorts anything to do with anything with the cosmetics on my cars. We also discussed some leather ceramic coating for the white leather, and getting PPF on the gloss carbon door cards. Sills appeared to already be PPFd, which is a nice bonus.
Definitely did a number on the car, but all good because it's covered in PPF.
Felt good to get it clean, I'm not gonna lie. Loads of comments on the road from folks passing by about the absolute state of the car. Most were hilarious though hahaha, a lot of people cheering on the concept of dirty supercar I guess!
Looking much better now! Only time will tell how long it'll be before the thing gets mucky again, though. Probably a matter of days
Definitely did a number on the car, but all good because it's covered in PPF.
Felt good to get it clean, I'm not gonna lie. Loads of comments on the road from folks passing by about the absolute state of the car. Most were hilarious though hahaha, a lot of people cheering on the concept of dirty supercar I guess!
Looking much better now! Only time will tell how long it'll be before the thing gets mucky again, though. Probably a matter of days
Austin_Metro said:
It does look good clean, but it look great filthy. Keep up the good work! Like the carrs story. Did you tell them?
Thanks! And yeah, Dominic - the guy responsible for handing me the keys, made this sale and definitely knows the story (and remembers!). Really solid fella.J1990 said:
Just saw your car pop up on Knight’s story and popped straight over to check it wasn’t a coincidental spec of another user not afraid of winter grime.
Lovely collection
Dave is awesome! And thanks Lovely collection
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