488 vs 650s

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Discussion

thejaywills

Original Poster:

394 posts

109 months

Thursday 12th October 2023
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Hey guys so after lots of thought and dreaming, I'm finally in the position to buy a proper supercar (and I'm super excited!)

I've decided I'm not actually sure about the Hurracan - the dream was a gallardo superleggera but they're too old to part finance which just makes more sense than dumping in a load of cash in (they're very uncommon here, thus sit at around 300k).

For 3-400k I can get a Ferrari 488 or a Mclaren 650s which are the two I've whittled it down to unless the ideal spec Hurracan pops up.

So would love any real world feedback, I've had some seat time in aventador's, 458's and an mp4-12c - not directly comparable.


Reliability is a big concern with the McLaren, all I've heard is that they're problematic at best. Any insights compared to the Ferrari?

The 488 is more expensive but ticks all the boxes - it's got my heart, hands down. More established service base here too. I can do my fair share of work on either (and probably will) which I know isn't the most sensible idea in terms of value and re-sale but it's part of the ownership enjoyment for me and whatever I buy, I'll most likely keep. But it's good to know there's support for the big things.

Ultimately, I don't want something that I can't take on a long drive or to the track every now and then without wondering whether I'll be able to drive it home. Comfort and ride quality isn't a big deal for me, it's all about sense of occasion

Any input as to what either are to live like would be appreciated, I'm leaning towards the 488 - just want to make sure I'm not missing something great in the 650 really considering it's a much lower price point.


Any other similar suggestions welcome that said. I love the GT3 but as a long term Porsche fan, it's too close of an experience to what I've had previously. Ruled out R8's, just don't feel special enough for what I'm looking for.

Thanks in advance




davek_964

8,889 posts

177 months

Thursday 12th October 2023
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If your heart says 488, I'd go 488.

I had a similar choice 4 years ago (458 vs 650) - my heart was really with the McLaren, and hence that's what I chose. I figured that if I bought a 458, every time I saw a McLaren I'd think "maybe I should have....". Although I have no doubt they're great cars - I've never wished I'd bought the 458.

McLarens are not problematic - there is the odd car that has issues, but that's true of every marque. For some reason, there is a lot of internet bashing of McLaren, almost all of it from people who don't actually own them. I'm on my second 650, and am happy to run without warranty - as are many owners. They are an absolute steal in the UK, and it sounds like they are comparably so where you are too.

But if your heart really wants the 488, I'd go for that - even if the 650 would save you money. You only live once - and I think it's very unlikely you'd regret the 488.

Bispal

1,623 posts

153 months

Thursday 12th October 2023
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The 650S is very reliable, for a supercar, just don't expect a Ferrari or McLaren to be as reliable as a VW. The economies of scale mean VW spend approx. £19 Billion on R&D annually compared to £900 million for Ferrari and £125million for McLaren. If McLaren & Ferrari spent what VW did then each car would cost what a Chiron does, which surprisingly is why a Chron costs what it does.

Also Ferrari owners don't air their dirty laundry in public like McLaren owners seem to or at least their dog sitters, nephews, neighbour does. Saying that the 650S is a reliable car for many, many owners. Its also insanely fast, comfortable and economical. If you want a 650S with a bit more 'edge' then go for a 675LT. Its almost as comfortable and quite a lot sharper and more feel some. Never driven a 488 but the 458 is a lovely car to drive.


Griffith4ever

4,398 posts

37 months

Thursday 12th October 2023
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The 650S does look like a bargain. Not looked at them before. If I wasn't planning to emigrate (or if I don't) it would be a contender for my next upgrade.

(I do find it funny to repeatedly hear the implication that Ferrari owners are far too wealthy to talk about filthy breakdowns and other mechanical issues in public :-) )

samoht

5,806 posts

148 months

Thursday 12th October 2023
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I'm very happy with my 570GT, and didn't think twice about taking it on a 2000 mile jaunt around Europe. Maybe I'm reckless but I don't think they're inherently that unreliable. Also the 650 is basically a de-bugged 12C, I've heard of expensive issues but not so many breakdowns requiring recovery.

Based on watching V Engineering work on my car, I don't think McLarens are that difficult to maintain, mostly 'it's just a car' albeit there are some specific procedures to follow for certain things, and a few more covers to unbolt to get at other stuff.

I guess the USPs of the 650 vs the 488 would be (a) the cross-linked suspension's combination of body control and bump absorption, and (b) if you get the Spider, the carbon tub means there's no real dynamic downside vs a coupe. Otherwise it's more superficial things like a different brand, vertical doors, wider range of paint options - personal preference. I guess you'll have an impression of McLaren steering vs Ferrari steering from driving 458 and 12C?

You don't say where you live, I think in the southern UK the combo of bargain basement prices and some good independents to maintain them well and affordably make McLarens a fantastic choice. However I think you really want a garage you trust (whether that be franchised or independent) not too far away to run a car like this happily. So I'd probably recommend going with whichever one you're more confident of finding a really good local-ish garage to support.

Abacus21

146 posts

37 months

Tuesday 17th October 2023
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I know someone that went to a 488 from a 650s. He regretted it and is already financed into that car.

Test drive both you will see the difference.

Not all 650s, 12c etc are unreliable or problematic. Sure Ferrari has a network and warranty but your paying a premium for that.

thejaywills

Original Poster:

394 posts

109 months

Monday 23rd October 2023
quotequote all
Thanks for the feedback all! some great food for thought..



samoht said:
I'm very happy with my 570GT, and didn't think twice about taking it on a 2000 mile jaunt around Europe. Maybe I'm reckless but I don't think they're inherently that unreliable. Also the 650 is basically a de-bugged 12C, I've heard of expensive issues but not so many breakdowns requiring recovery.

Based on watching V Engineering work on my car, I don't think McLarens are that difficult to maintain, mostly 'it's just a car' albeit there are some specific procedures to follow for certain things, and a few more covers to unbolt to get at other stuff.

I guess the USPs of the 650 vs the 488 would be (a) the cross-linked suspension's combination of body control and bump absorption, and (b) if you get the Spider, the carbon tub means there's no real dynamic downside vs a coupe. Otherwise it's more superficial things like a different brand, vertical doors, wider range of paint options - personal preference. I guess you'll have an impression of McLaren steering vs Ferrari steering from driving 458 and 12C?

You don't say where you live, I think in the southern UK the combo of bargain basement prices and some good independents to maintain them well and affordably make McLarens a fantastic choice. However I think you really want a garage you trust (whether that be franchised or independent) not too far away to run a car like this happily. So I'd probably recommend going with whichever one you're more confident of finding a really good local-ish garage to support.
Good point and I suppose most cars really fall into that category of being 'just cars' and that suits me just fine! Funny you've touched on a few things that actually swayed me a bit. I found a 650s in a stunning colour and the vertical doors do tickle my inner child. I don't have a garage I trust but I do have a farily well eqquipped workshop and youtube ha. Have to quickly decide whether it will be a keeper or not though as that will dictate whether I service it officially or by myself.

I thought I'd had a good gauge from the 458 and 12c but I drove a 488 last week and felt it was somewhat different from the 458 I drove. At least at sedate speeds it felt strangely light?




Griffith4ever said:
The 650S does look like a bargain. Not looked at them before. If I wasn't planning to emigrate (or if I don't) it would be a contender for my next upgrade.

(I do find it funny to repeatedly hear the implication that Ferrari owners are far too wealthy to talk about filthy breakdowns and other mechanical issues in public :-) )
Ha it seems very true too but when I looked at a Ferrari last week I found out why. They're happy to warrant a ferrari for up to 19 years old here - providing you service with them. So I think a lot of the quiet comes from simply paying the money and getting the service!

Bispal said:
The 650S is very reliable, for a supercar, just don't expect a Ferrari or McLaren to be as reliable as a VW. The economies of scale mean VW spend approx. £19 Billion on R&D annually compared to £900 million for Ferrari and £125million for McLaren. If McLaren & Ferrari spent what VW did then each car would cost what a Chiron does, which surprisingly is why a Chron costs what it does.

Also Ferrari owners don't air their dirty laundry in public like McLaren owners seem to or at least their dog sitters, nephews, neighbour does. Saying that the 650S is a reliable car for many, many owners. Its also insanely fast, comfortable and economical. If you want a 650S with a bit more 'edge' then go for a 675LT. Its almost as comfortable and quite a lot sharper and more feel some. Never driven a 488 but the 458 is a lovely car to drive.
Absolutely - not expecting it to be bomb proof - and to be honest, little niggles don't worry me so much - as long as it generally starts and lets me hit the hills I'm generally happy. You're probably right about Ferrari owners, partly due to the point above. The 675 isn't an option here due to availability to be honest, but I'm really growing to the idea of fettling a 650.


davek_964 said:
If your heart says 488, I'd go 488.

I had a similar choice 4 years ago (458 vs 650) - my heart was really with the McLaren, and hence that's what I chose. I figured that if I bought a 458, every time I saw a McLaren I'd think "maybe I should have....". Although I have no doubt they're great cars - I've never wished I'd bought the 458.

McLarens are not problematic - there is the odd car that has issues, but that's true of every marque. For some reason, there is a lot of internet bashing of McLaren, almost all of it from people who don't actually own them. I'm on my second 650, and am happy to run without warranty - as are many owners. They are an absolute steal in the UK, and it sounds like they are comparably so where you are too.

But if your heart really wants the 488, I'd go for that - even if the 650 would save you money. You only live once - and I think it's very unlikely you'd regret the 488.
Funny but I Think I was rulling out the 650 in my head due to, well, embarrasingly, not being a ferrari. But after viewing both, it's definitely love with the 650. Good to hear that you've had that experience - they're a good $100k less than the comparable 488 here without being $100k less the car!


Abacus21 said:
I know someone that went to a 488 from a 650s. He regretted it and is already financed into that car.

Test drive both you will see the difference.

Not all 650s, 12c etc are unreliable or problematic. Sure Ferrari has a network and warranty but your paying a premium for that.
Great to hear that too many thanks


200Plus Club

10,845 posts

280 months

Monday 23rd October 2023
quotequote all
Although I haven't driven a 488 I have recently looked at a 458 and a 650S myself, so it's a very interesting thread.
The Ferrari is of course a "Ferrari" with all that title brings. I've never owned one so the possibility of doing so is very exciting. I'd not considered a McLaren until very recently and have semi assured myself that a slush fund to cover a factory warranty is the answer to any worries, or alternatively I'll just take a purchased car to Thorney Motorsport immediately for inspection and warranty etc.
If the 488 is anything like a 458 for drama/noise etc then it's fabulous. However the 650S I drove was an absolute monster on full chat. A different type of noise/look but equally as thrilling. License losing fast as I put it!
I don't know if the US market is like here but McLaren seem to depreciate more to a point here initially.
Just drive both is the only advice I can offer, the lure of a Ferrari is strong to most car nuts but the McLarens are very exotic and brutally quick.

andymc

7,370 posts

209 months

Monday 23rd October 2023
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plus a £50k price difference

Griffith4ever

4,398 posts

37 months

Monday 23rd October 2023
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I'm getting more serious about the 650s Spyder. Been looking at wheel upgrades :-) as that's the only bit lacking IMO. Just a little concerned we are heading for a global financial collapse, post covid and now the Middle East kicking off. Not worried about purchase money, it's the resale issue if the market crashes, as I'll need to sell in around 2 years as I'm might well have emigrated.

For me, Maclaran has more appeal that Ferrari as I really don't like the image that gets attached to Ferrari ownership in a small town.

Nuttbelle

537 posts

12 months

Monday 23rd October 2023
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Griffith4ever said:
I'm getting more serious about the 650s Spyder. Been looking at wheel upgrades :-) as that's the only bit lacking IMO. Just a little concerned we are heading for a global financial collapse, post covid and now the Middle East kicking off. Not worried about purchase money, it's the resale issue if the market crashes, as I'll need to sell in around 2 years as I'm might well have emigrated.

For me, Maclaran has more appeal that Ferrari as I really don't like the image that gets attached to Ferrari ownership in a small town.
The worse case scenario is we are all dead and you have lost £80k.
YOLO get it bought and stop procrastinating about what might happen FFS

BlackR8

459 posts

79 months

Monday 23rd October 2023
quotequote all
Griffith4ever said:
I'm getting more serious about the 650s Spyder. Been looking at wheel upgrades :-) as that's the only bit lacking IMO. Just a little concerned we are heading for a global financial collapse, post covid and now the Middle East kicking off. Not worried about purchase money, it's the resale issue if the market crashes, as I'll need to sell in around 2 years as I'm might well have emigrated.

For me, Maclaran has more appeal that Ferrari as I really don't like the image that gets attached to Ferrari ownership in a small town.
The McLaren 650S has been hovering between £80k - £100k for many years now so seems to have settled into that bracket which seems fair as list must have been £200k+ after options when new. Outside a catastrophic market crash I can't see much variance in this price range over the coming period, and if the market does crash all round then it won't really matter what car you have as they will all lose money.

Griffith4ever

4,398 posts

37 months

Monday 23rd October 2023
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Good points well made. (I'm not a procrastinator - I bought my V10 on a whim about 2 days after someone suggested the idea. I am just being a touch careful pre-emigration, but, when I start thinking about buying something....... )

200Plus Club

10,845 posts

280 months

Tuesday 24th October 2023
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https://www.cargurus.co.uk/Cars/inventorylisting/v...

If its not a wreck that's got to be a performance bargain surely?

samoht

5,806 posts

148 months

Tuesday 24th October 2023
quotequote all
200Plus Club said:
https://www.cargurus.co.uk/Cars/inventorylisting/v...

If its not a wreck that's got to be a performance bargain surely?
The model is wrong (it's a 12C, not a 650S), and the year is wrong (last 650S were 2016, the 720S came in in 2017).
What other "minor" details are they getting wrong?

Edited by samoht on Tuesday 24th October 22:09

davek_964

8,889 posts

177 months

Wednesday 25th October 2023
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samoht said:
The model is wrong (it's a 12C, not a 650S), and the year is wrong (last 650S were 2016, the 720S came in in 2017).
What other "minor" details are they getting wrong?

Edited by samoht on Tuesday 24th October 22:09
Well - exterior colour isn't black, so that too.

I don't think I'd be tempted.......

ETA : If you follow the link to the actual dealer website, it's correctly described as a 2011 Orange 12C


Edited by davek_964 on Wednesday 25th October 10:44

docv6kjf

2 posts

253 months

Wednesday 25th October 2023
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I have owned my 650s for near 6 years now (without warranty) and its been one very awesome car. Its never given me any problems and as long as you keep them on a trickle charger, don't rev the crap out of them cold and except that things like accumulators are service items on the McLaren, in the same way that they are on a Ferrari I.e. F430 hydraulic system etc, you wont be disappointed. Every time I jump in it the car reminds me the reason for my purchase. Mines a keeper...

thejaywills

Original Poster:

394 posts

109 months

Thursday 7th December 2023
quotequote all
Well after a whole heap of anxiety and thinking, I came to a decision on a basically brand new 650s. Possibly paying a little over the odds but essentially get a brand new car with 1000 miles, lots of carbon and in immaculate, as new condition. First registered a year after the last built too so about as new a
I could hope for here.

My Dad actually worked on (a small part) of the F1 project so McLaren has always been a soft spot of mine.

I looked at huracans - they really don't sit well with me, the OTT styling and the amount about that are just cafe racers I guess. A Superleggera is what I wanted originally and is still on the dream list, the price was close to the 650s though - which felt like more car despite the sound and engagement if I could find a manual SL.

Thing I love most about a car is the sense of occasion which is why I wanted a superleggera originally. But everything down to the minimalistic wheel, vertical doors, climbing in to the racing seats, exhausts in the middle of the rear valance just made me grin in the end

I took a 488 for a spin, it might have been due to the salesman sitting in a suit next to me and the test drive lasting for only a few minutes, but it really didn't excite me in the way that the 458 did. The ride was a bit too soft (read: comfortable rather than too supple) which sounds stupid but a supercar shouldnt be all smooth imo. The balance of the 650 seems great, With a straight exhaust it sounds very exotic which will be one of my first mods,



200Plus Club said:
Although I haven't driven a 488 I have recently looked at a 458 and a 650S myself, so it's a very interesting thread.
The Ferrari is of course a "Ferrari" with all that title brings. I've never owned one so the possibility of doing so is very exciting. I'd not considered a McLaren until very recently and have semi assured myself that a slush fund to cover a factory warranty is the answer to any worries, or alternatively I'll just take a purchased car to Thorney Motorsport immediately for inspection and warranty etc.
If the 488 is anything like a 458 for drama/noise etc then it's fabulous. However the 650S I drove was an absolute monster on full chat. A different type of noise/look but equally as thrilling. License losing fast as I put it!
I don't know if the US market is like here but McLaren seem to depreciate more to a point here initially.
Just drive both is the only advice I can offer, the lure of a Ferrari is strong to most car nuts but the McLarens are very exotic and brutally quick.
Interested to know what way you're leaning smile It's funny, I feel like I want a ferrari because it's a ferrari. When I actually look into what I like, I found myself asking why - I'd actually enjoy a 458 or 430 more than the 488.


Griffith4ever said:
I'm getting more serious about the 650s Spyder. Been looking at wheel upgrades :-) as that's the only bit lacking IMO. Just a little concerned we are heading for a global financial collapse, post covid and now the Middle East kicking off. Not worried about purchase money, it's the resale issue if the market crashes, as I'll need to sell in around 2 years as I'm might well have emigrated.

For me, Maclaran has more appeal that Ferrari as I really don't like the image that gets attached to Ferrari ownership in a small town.
Agree with the wheels, I'd like some HRE wheels. I'm sure we are headed for a bit of a collapse but hey things all bounce back. Ferraris do have a bit of an image I suppose - doesn't really bother me as I'm buying for me and no one else but do get it.

davek_964

8,889 posts

177 months

Friday 8th December 2023
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Congratulations - although for some reason I can't find the photos of it on this thread? wink

Gibbo205

3,563 posts

209 months

Friday 8th December 2023
quotequote all
200Plus Club said:
https://www.cargurus.co.uk/Cars/inventorylisting/v...

If its not a wreck that's got to be a performance bargain surely?
I viewed a 600LT there, colour was listed wrong and all the cars they had looked like poor examples and not well cared for, just all in a lock up parked head to nose upto each other, all with flat batteries.

Upon seeing that I'd never buy a single car from them, just not taken care of at all.