458 or similar for everyday?

[controlz]

I currently drive a manual Aston Martin V12 Vantage - it is without doubt the best car I've ever driven and there's nothing more fun than taking it out on some long winding country roads!

Whilst the weekends are phenomenal, I do live and work in London and my daily commute consists of stop and start traffic with the majority of my driving being short 3-5 mile trips. As I'm sure you're aware, a heavy clutch and gearbox isn't the most relaxing thing to drive in traffic, and if I need to concentrate on a phone call in traffic, I could do with something a little more easy! As such, I've started driving my little Smart car to work more regularly recently.

When I own a sports car I want to drive it as much as possible (I'm not really one for having a weekly and a weekend) so I want to find something suitable and not have to resort to my Smart! I would consider the V12 in auto but if I'm to change I'm thinking I should try something different. So my question is.. does anyone use their 458 regularly in traffic and how is it!?

Thanks

[controlz]

Interesting comments from all, thank you.

How about getting something right in the middle - e.g a 911?

[controlz]

mattf93 said:

NNH said:

I'll disagree with the two-car plan: I've always used a single car as my daily driver, track toy, supermarket shopper, B-road weapon, and transcontinental tourer. I'm still working my way up towards the 458 level (actually I'd rather have a 650...) but I've loved such "impractical" cars as an MX-5, 911 and my current Cayman.
The way I see it is that if I like a car enough to buy it, why would I then choose to drive something else!

I suppose its each to their own, to some it also depends on their job or their business and whether its practical/acceptable to press say a ferrari 458/650s into daily service.
A lot of businesses and industries would frown upon you doing this - even if you have earnt it
So I fully respect what you are saying, but to most people, they have or need 2 cars, especially if you do a lot of miles you would get hit for abnormal depreciation in a 458 if you per se did 12K miles a year in one.

Everyone has different needs. If you transport stuff you'll need an estate not a cayman etc. All down to choices, needs and finances - but I completely understand everyones needs are very different!

Interesting posts from both of you - thank you. I met a racing driver yesterday who said the 458 was one of the best car's he has ever driven, and his grandmother could commute in it which was pleasant to here.

I agree with you both and this is my issue. Of course, having a car to drive at the weekends can really put a smile on your face and give you something to look forward to, but then, if I've worked hard enough to afford something like a 458, I would want to make the most of it and drive it everyday.

Do I have space for 2 cars? Yes.. but is it necessary.. I'm not sure. I'm also very young (only 26) and I think a number of those everyday cars you have recommended I may still be a little young for

On another note: Does anybody know where I would be able to arrange a long term test drive in a 458 near London - perhaps a full day or weekend? I feel I rushed into buying my V12V a little bit having only driven it for 20mins, and would really like to try a 458 in varying conditions.

Edited by controlz on Sunday 3rd May 16:33

[controlz]

Magic919 said:

Don't get the 458.

Do a proper job and buy the Speciale.

My budget doesn't quite get there!