575M insights please
Discussion
Calling all (current and former) 575M owners, I need your guidance please.
You’ll be glad to hear this isn’t another values thread. I buy my cars, use them, and they fall in value. It’s what I do! I’m just looking for some trusted advice.
I owned a 550 Maranello from 2008-2012. It’s my all-time favourite car, but I can’t afford a good one now. I owned a 599 with the HGTE pack, which I didn’t get on with. Just a bit too frenetic for me. I’m not a racy kind of driver; I actually preferred the DB9 Volante loan car that we had for a month. But I don’t want an Aston Martin enough to buy one.
And so…this brings me to the 575M. I adore the design and the interior. I can afford a good one, with the F1 box. As I’ve said, I do rather like the whole GT vibe, so I’m not sure the optional handling pack will be much of an issue for me.
If there is anyone on here with some insight into the overall ownership experience and running costs, weak spots, reliability, please do chime-in. My 550 never put a foot wrong in 28,000 miles. My 599, on the other hand, was an absolute pain in the derrière.
I’ve seen a peachy example at a well-known Ferrari specialist. It looks immaculate and well-cared for, with an impeccable history. An annual service/cambelts is included in the price. My final question is, would it be prudent to arrange an inspection? Would a dealer be receptive to the idea? I’ve only ever bought cars from main dealers (Ferrari, Porsche, BMW) so it has never been a consideration.
Thanks so much everyone.
You’ll be glad to hear this isn’t another values thread. I buy my cars, use them, and they fall in value. It’s what I do! I’m just looking for some trusted advice.
I owned a 550 Maranello from 2008-2012. It’s my all-time favourite car, but I can’t afford a good one now. I owned a 599 with the HGTE pack, which I didn’t get on with. Just a bit too frenetic for me. I’m not a racy kind of driver; I actually preferred the DB9 Volante loan car that we had for a month. But I don’t want an Aston Martin enough to buy one.
And so…this brings me to the 575M. I adore the design and the interior. I can afford a good one, with the F1 box. As I’ve said, I do rather like the whole GT vibe, so I’m not sure the optional handling pack will be much of an issue for me.
If there is anyone on here with some insight into the overall ownership experience and running costs, weak spots, reliability, please do chime-in. My 550 never put a foot wrong in 28,000 miles. My 599, on the other hand, was an absolute pain in the derrière.
I’ve seen a peachy example at a well-known Ferrari specialist. It looks immaculate and well-cared for, with an impeccable history. An annual service/cambelts is included in the price. My final question is, would it be prudent to arrange an inspection? Would a dealer be receptive to the idea? I’ve only ever bought cars from main dealers (Ferrari, Porsche, BMW) so it has never been a consideration.
Thanks so much everyone.
Many thanks for the comments, gents.
Very interesting cgt2 that you loved the 550 (as I did enormously) and yet didn’t gel with the 575. I thought they’d be more similar. Good to hear your feedback on that. And beeping indicators is a worry…that could quickly get on my nerves.
Anyway, much to ponder. I’ll take your advice and try to get a proper test drive rather than just a tootle round the block. I’m aware some people really dislike the F1 box, but I heard one respected specialist say they just need setting-up properly. Let’s see. I can’t go manual, not least due to my budget but also the fact that a clutch pedal aggravates a long-term back problem.
I’ll enjoy the search as always.
Very interesting cgt2 that you loved the 550 (as I did enormously) and yet didn’t gel with the 575. I thought they’d be more similar. Good to hear your feedback on that. And beeping indicators is a worry…that could quickly get on my nerves.
Anyway, much to ponder. I’ll take your advice and try to get a proper test drive rather than just a tootle round the block. I’m aware some people really dislike the F1 box, but I heard one respected specialist say they just need setting-up properly. Let’s see. I can’t go manual, not least due to my budget but also the fact that a clutch pedal aggravates a long-term back problem.
I’ll enjoy the search as always.
Thanks for the tip.
That’s so very true about the psychological aspect of cars. The period I owned my 550, all the stars seemed to align. It was the best time of my life and I couldn’t believe my good fortune to be driving around in my dream car. I’m not sure anything can ever come close to matching that. But we petrol heads are eternal optimists I think.
That’s so very true about the psychological aspect of cars. The period I owned my 550, all the stars seemed to align. It was the best time of my life and I couldn’t believe my good fortune to be driving around in my dream car. I’m not sure anything can ever come close to matching that. But we petrol heads are eternal optimists I think.
Such great comments there Mogul, thanks. All of these wonderful cars that we’re lucky enough to own, no matter how fleetingly, end up with special memories attached to them. That’s what it’s all about.
I tend also to agree with your sentiments on the FHP not really being the point on a 575, at least not for my driving style. Maybe it’s my age!
I tend also to agree with your sentiments on the FHP not really being the point on a 575, at least not for my driving style. Maybe it’s my age!
TwoMinds said:
I'm looking at 575s as well and have wrangled with FHP or not. Nobody seems to have an issue with the handling or ride of the 550 which the FHP restores (at least in part) according to every review I've read. But then, reviews are not the same as the insights of owners, which are invaluable. I'm looking at a late 2004 with FHP tomorrow. Should also have the revised steering but I'll check the build number to confirm that. Also have a modular or standard wheel choice, the former at an as yet to be discussed higher price. Also has a Tubi which may or may not be intrusive on long drives.
Excellent. Look forward to hearing how you get on Colin. Hope all goes well. TwoMinds said:
SL550M said:
Excellent. Look forward to hearing how you get on Colin. Hope all goes well.
Thanks Steve. I spent some time with it and drove on a variety of roads. It's a late 2004 build so has the revised steering and suspension as well as FHP, but on 10 year old tyres on a cold day so driving cautiously. Impressions: Very much a firm GT so would not want more on UK roads, not much difference toggling between sport/normal settings. Steering was very good, nicely weighted at all speeds. F1 was fine, even in auto, not that jerky, perhaps well set up. Tubi is quite loud, fun in it's own way, settled down in 6th and steady pace but would need hours to know if tolerable. Modular wheels are +£5k, not sure that they are worth that uplift to me. Car is black/black, not my first choice but it's not like there are dozens to choose from. Some thinking ahead over the next day or so. Pleased to hear that you got on fine with the F1, as that’s one of my few slight concerns. I’d agree with you, the modular wheels sound a tad pricey. I’d probably pass on that, if it were me. Happy ponderings!
TwoMinds said:
Well I'm officially out of the market having bought the 'yellow seat belts' car at KHPC. Pick up is in a couple of weeks after a service and other bits and pieces.
Good man Colin. Impressive decisiveness. Your username is clearly a bit of a misnomer. You must be excited. It's a lovely looking car you've chosen there and a great price, judging by the other 575s on the market. KHPC are a good bunch of people, too. Happy days!
Gassing Station | Ferrari V12 | Top of Page | What's New | My Stuff