Ferrari Owner a Cheapskate?!
Discussion
Hi everybody,
I joined PH last month and have been enjoying all the postings here but this is my first. Had to write about an incident on my way home an hour ago...
A 5-year old Bimmer M3 pulls up beside my car (F 360M, LHD) at a traffic light and shouts, "hey you f***ing cheapstake, couldn't afford a right hand drive?" What is it with people that, first, makes them instant idiots around a Ferrari and, second, makes them so vitriolic?! In the two years since I've had the 360, I've had idiots try to race me (I just move into the slow lane in response usually), sometimes tailgate me or try to push me away, and so on. I once chased away a guy who was about to scratch my car with a key and he kept shouting "bloody foreigner" as he ran!
In contrast, on the Continent, particularly Holland, Southern France and Italy, most drivers play fair on the roads and in fact get out of the way quickly, they come and talk to you at petrol stations, and even want to get photographed with the car. It's usually fun running into interested people in Europe.
What's the matter with people (okay a small minority but a pretty aggressive bunch who just have to get in your face) here? I'd be grateful to know if others have also had such experiences and what makes them behave that way!
Looking forward to many more postings...
Amar
I joined PH last month and have been enjoying all the postings here but this is my first. Had to write about an incident on my way home an hour ago...
A 5-year old Bimmer M3 pulls up beside my car (F 360M, LHD) at a traffic light and shouts, "hey you f***ing cheapstake, couldn't afford a right hand drive?" What is it with people that, first, makes them instant idiots around a Ferrari and, second, makes them so vitriolic?! In the two years since I've had the 360, I've had idiots try to race me (I just move into the slow lane in response usually), sometimes tailgate me or try to push me away, and so on. I once chased away a guy who was about to scratch my car with a key and he kept shouting "bloody foreigner" as he ran!
In contrast, on the Continent, particularly Holland, Southern France and Italy, most drivers play fair on the roads and in fact get out of the way quickly, they come and talk to you at petrol stations, and even want to get photographed with the car. It's usually fun running into interested people in Europe.
What's the matter with people (okay a small minority but a pretty aggressive bunch who just have to get in your face) here? I'd be grateful to know if others have also had such experiences and what makes them behave that way!
Looking forward to many more postings...
Amar
Hi Amar- if your experience matches mine, this is a pretty rare event right? The majority of people admire the car and pay no heed to the driver. But let's face it, you're bound to waken the green eyed monster in some people. The last time this happened to me it was from a passenger in a white transit van on the way home from work; he gave me the 'coffee bean shake' and, as I was about to get annoyed, a thought struck me. I'm going home in a Ferrari, and you're going home in a shed. Who's the w*nker now?
Enjoy the car.
Kevin
Enjoy the car.
Kevin
I've said this before but it's relevant to this posting.
I recall an early work of towering literary genius, penned by that thespionic colussus, Arnold 'The Austrian Oak' Schwarzenegger.
In it, the great man recounts the experience of tooling around L.A. in a Lamborghini.
Mention is made of the play made by, amongst others, the BMW fraternity and indeed, the plethora of lesser machinery, all cajouling said exotica and buzzing around it in what sounded like a desperate and pitiful 'look at me, me, me!' demeanour...
...And how these vehicles would positively scream past at thoroughly illegal velocities whilst Arnie, smugly esconsed in his Bolognese devil, cruised along in sedate superiority at 55...nothing to prove, of course.
It is the very inferiority complex referred to above and as you say, Amar, typical of many peasants encountered, unfortunately all too frequently, in Blighty these days.
You are driving a jewel; an icon; something considered unattainable and undeniably 'expensive.' Revel in it and as Kevin (456mgt) says, who IS in which vehicle?
Fortunately, large numbers will hopefully acknowledge it's real significance more of the time but if you're in the cities, the old smoke especially, discretion may unfortunately be the better part of valour. I think subconciously at least, that's why my day to day transport is so visually unassuming.
Anyway, welcome to the show and, any chance of some piccies? I do like a bit of automotive art first thing on a Saturday AM!
Cheers.
>> Edited by Derestrictor on Saturday 16th November 09:39
I recall an early work of towering literary genius, penned by that thespionic colussus, Arnold 'The Austrian Oak' Schwarzenegger.
In it, the great man recounts the experience of tooling around L.A. in a Lamborghini.
Mention is made of the play made by, amongst others, the BMW fraternity and indeed, the plethora of lesser machinery, all cajouling said exotica and buzzing around it in what sounded like a desperate and pitiful 'look at me, me, me!' demeanour...
...And how these vehicles would positively scream past at thoroughly illegal velocities whilst Arnie, smugly esconsed in his Bolognese devil, cruised along in sedate superiority at 55...nothing to prove, of course.
It is the very inferiority complex referred to above and as you say, Amar, typical of many peasants encountered, unfortunately all too frequently, in Blighty these days.
You are driving a jewel; an icon; something considered unattainable and undeniably 'expensive.' Revel in it and as Kevin (456mgt) says, who IS in which vehicle?
Fortunately, large numbers will hopefully acknowledge it's real significance more of the time but if you're in the cities, the old smoke especially, discretion may unfortunately be the better part of valour. I think subconciously at least, that's why my day to day transport is so visually unassuming.
Anyway, welcome to the show and, any chance of some piccies? I do like a bit of automotive art first thing on a Saturday AM!
Cheers.
>> Edited by Derestrictor on Saturday 16th November 09:39
Amar - what happened to you is so common it's unbelievable (this does depend quite a lot on what part of the world you're in though) - TOTAL jealousy...
In fact they need not shout it or wind their windows down to do it - the most common is:
1. stare REALLY aggressively,
2. nudge passenger and point to you,
3. collective shake of heads and mouthing the words "f**KING w*nker"
Do you care about the pathetic self-enforced inferiority complex of idiots like these?
And to be quite honest any kind of reaction is a bad idea (as I have explained to impulsive young Ninja on many an occasion) - you don't want some dick with nothing to lose, coming out and smashing the car up.... About the LHD comment - I know becuase I've been there.... cheapskate? - LHD are more expensive to service, run and insure (albeit for no particular reason other than the fact dealers want to rob you) and when we're talking Ferrari-magnitude running costs, this becomes quite significant... cheapskate? I think not...
Enjoy the car indeeed mate
>> Edited by manu on Saturday 16th November 10:42
>> Edited by manu on Saturday 16th November 10:43
In fact they need not shout it or wind their windows down to do it - the most common is:
1. stare REALLY aggressively,
2. nudge passenger and point to you,
3. collective shake of heads and mouthing the words "f**KING w*nker"
Do you care about the pathetic self-enforced inferiority complex of idiots like these?
And to be quite honest any kind of reaction is a bad idea (as I have explained to impulsive young Ninja on many an occasion) - you don't want some dick with nothing to lose, coming out and smashing the car up.... About the LHD comment - I know becuase I've been there.... cheapskate? - LHD are more expensive to service, run and insure (albeit for no particular reason other than the fact dealers want to rob you) and when we're talking Ferrari-magnitude running costs, this becomes quite significant... cheapskate? I think not...
Enjoy the car indeeed mate
>> Edited by manu on Saturday 16th November 10:42
>> Edited by manu on Saturday 16th November 10:43
like that will never ever own one.
A 5-year old Bimmer M3 pulls up beside my car (F 360M, LHD) at a traffic light and shouts, "hey you f***ing cheapstake, couldn't afford a right hand drive?"
I think he's spot on. Buying a LHD Ferrari makes you look like a penny pincher. Sorry Amar, no excuses for this one. I mean imagine going through all this hassle just to save 30k or so. What are you going to do next an LPG conversion? Really, you can't even get you parking ticket from Tesco without leaning right over or getting out of the car. Why would you put yourself through this?
and for good measure 30k will cover your insurance, servicing, petrol and a few nights out for a while. Ferrari's are meant to be LHD coming from Italy and more fun is had on the continent with them anyway. Good on ya. Just don't tell me you got it in white for the UK! That's unforgivable
Amar, if you are in London, or any of the big cities with a plethora of dicks around, then its not that uncommon.
I've had "get the new one", "thats crap, you should get the new one" etc shouted at me too. Both times in the West End and on the same night. 1st 6 guys walk past and one of them says "get the new one blah blah blah", so we respond with "if you can even afford the cheapest one, then come and talk to me." Usual exchange of words and it comes to nothing. I didn't really want to get into an exchange as its not worth getting a scratch/dent on the car. Although we had four guys in another car, it wasn't the smartest move I could make. The other time, told the guy to f**k off and explained I would buy his mother for the night and would pay well to help his quest to get a Ferrari.
Another time through Lime House link tunnel, got a taxi driver pull up beside me and start making the w*nker sign. So I lowered the music (and being really pissed off by his behaviour) and told him to pull over if he really had any bottle coz I wanted to smack his head in, that he was a poor sad w*nker that could only afford to go on holiday during the cheap season, that it wasn't his taxi and he was merely a shit head working for the company, and he would indeed be a nobody again in 10 years time. I would be able to pull his girl,sister and mother just because of my car blah blah blah (all this with my girlfriend sitting next to me
).
All speculation I know, and pretty much playing out the idea that he has about a Ferrari owner, or what he would think as a rich guy etc. I don't really think like that and have total respect for everyone, until they give me a reason to disrespect them, and then its war! Anyway, he retorted with a half hearted f**k off and turned off.
It gets worrying when you see someone trying to scratch the car up though. That is really worrying.
In my experience over 90% of most reactions are good, and even they guys tailing you most of them just want to see/hear the car better. Its annoying sometimes but you can understand it. Let my mum drive and she got sooo much grief. Jealousy is alive and well, and breeding as ever.
Sorry for the long post, find this crap really irritating.
I've had "get the new one", "thats crap, you should get the new one" etc shouted at me too. Both times in the West End and on the same night. 1st 6 guys walk past and one of them says "get the new one blah blah blah", so we respond with "if you can even afford the cheapest one, then come and talk to me." Usual exchange of words and it comes to nothing. I didn't really want to get into an exchange as its not worth getting a scratch/dent on the car. Although we had four guys in another car, it wasn't the smartest move I could make. The other time, told the guy to f**k off and explained I would buy his mother for the night and would pay well to help his quest to get a Ferrari.
Another time through Lime House link tunnel, got a taxi driver pull up beside me and start making the w*nker sign. So I lowered the music (and being really pissed off by his behaviour) and told him to pull over if he really had any bottle coz I wanted to smack his head in, that he was a poor sad w*nker that could only afford to go on holiday during the cheap season, that it wasn't his taxi and he was merely a shit head working for the company, and he would indeed be a nobody again in 10 years time. I would be able to pull his girl,sister and mother just because of my car blah blah blah (all this with my girlfriend sitting next to me
). All speculation I know, and pretty much playing out the idea that he has about a Ferrari owner, or what he would think as a rich guy etc. I don't really think like that and have total respect for everyone, until they give me a reason to disrespect them, and then its war! Anyway, he retorted with a half hearted f**k off and turned off.
It gets worrying when you see someone trying to scratch the car up though. That is really worrying.
In my experience over 90% of most reactions are good, and even they guys tailing you most of them just want to see/hear the car better. Its annoying sometimes but you can understand it. Let my mum drive and she got sooo much grief. Jealousy is alive and well, and breeding as ever.
Sorry for the long post, find this crap really irritating.
I would be able to pull his girl,sister and mother just because of my car blah blah blah (all this with my girlfriend sitting next to me
Nice one! China Whites a perfect example. Large percentage of the girls will be asking the following: Where are you from(where is and how much is your house)? What do you do(how much money do you have)? Did you take a taxi here(what car/s do you have)? Pisses me off, but at least you know where to go for a bit of relief.
Thanks, everybody, for the welcomes and experience sharing - it's great to join you all here! Sorry my first posting was of a negative experience because, you're right Kevin, most experiences with the Ferrari have been fantastic.
My father's best friend was Enzo's cousin and I've been around Ferraris since age 4, so getting the first one two years ago was a dream fulfilled and has been a pleasure since. And actually, like all of you, I got the car not to advertise success or pose but because I love great driving and the 360 is the best driving experience for me so far.
I got LHD because most of my mileage is on the Continent and I might move to Italy in a couple of years anyway. But once in a while it bugs me that at home here in England I have to deal with idiots who try to spoil the experience, while in Europe there has not been a single such incident.
I didn't react last night and usually don't (actually it was the motorcyclist next to us who stared at the Bimmer for what seemed like ages and stopped him flooring it when the light turned green!), both because I don't care about these people and the damage they can do if their sensitive egos get pricked. But unfortunately it still wrankles me sometimes and it's a shame such people are out there to spoil it for others if they can't have it themselves.
Anyway that's the end of my rant. What a great day out in London now and time to enjoy it! Speak soon...
Amar
My father's best friend was Enzo's cousin and I've been around Ferraris since age 4, so getting the first one two years ago was a dream fulfilled and has been a pleasure since. And actually, like all of you, I got the car not to advertise success or pose but because I love great driving and the 360 is the best driving experience for me so far.
I got LHD because most of my mileage is on the Continent and I might move to Italy in a couple of years anyway. But once in a while it bugs me that at home here in England I have to deal with idiots who try to spoil the experience, while in Europe there has not been a single such incident.
I didn't react last night and usually don't (actually it was the motorcyclist next to us who stared at the Bimmer for what seemed like ages and stopped him flooring it when the light turned green!), both because I don't care about these people and the damage they can do if their sensitive egos get pricked. But unfortunately it still wrankles me sometimes and it's a shame such people are out there to spoil it for others if they can't have it themselves.
Anyway that's the end of my rant. What a great day out in London now and time to enjoy it! Speak soon...
Amar
Thanks maranellouk! I bought it from Maranello Sales who arranged the LHD through Garage Francorchamps, the Belgian dealer that happens to be owned by them. And in the bargain I got the car within 8 months rather than 18 months for RHD. Picked it up at the factory which was a nice experience.
It's red (rosso corsa, the first one had to be!), with tan interior (the deeper not the light one) and red carpets. And it's manual and the next one will also be manual probably - just like the feel of traditional gear changing too much.
BTW could you tell me how to upload a photo on here? Thanks.
Amar
It's red (rosso corsa, the first one had to be!), with tan interior (the deeper not the light one) and red carpets. And it's manual and the next one will also be manual probably - just like the feel of traditional gear changing too much.
BTW could you tell me how to upload a photo on here? Thanks.
Amar
BTW could you tell me how to upload a photo on here? Thanks.
Amar
Try using www.fotango.com It's a free service and when you upload you shots to the site you should see the "get a link to this picture" option. Get the link then post it in your message/profile e.g [pic] www.website/picture.jpg [/pic]
Enjoy the car and get a Tubi fitted from PH legend Manu and the boys at www.Scuderiasystems.com If you happen to be in or around France, Italy between December 26th-Jan 20th mail me and we can meet up and check the manafacturers top speed claims
I'll be at home in St. Tropez but as I haven't driven any cars for 6 months I will be going to Italy and Spain or as far as I can be bothered to drive. Def. driving to Maranello to pay respects, not sure where in Spain as I'm just going to see friends(any excuse eh?). Might blast back to London for a day to load up on the January sales.
Again, if you're about, give us a shout.
Again, if you're about, give us a shout.
I really hate those jealous f***** that can see anyone with anything just because they cant afford one and its usually a minority because most people will stare in envy but not green envy. I dont have a Ferrari but once i had a bag of eggs thrown at my car and on haloween a egg across the rear panel.
If someone shouts at you laugh at them i would and feel happy that they are so jealous of you that they have to shout something.
I read somewhere that quoted something like"they nudge their partner and point" well that may be because their partner hasnt seen the car and they are both staring in envy of it.
If someone shouts at you laugh at them i would and feel happy that they are so jealous of you that they have to shout something.
I read somewhere that quoted something like"they nudge their partner and point" well that may be because their partner hasnt seen the car and they are both staring in envy of it.
Ignore em. Green eyed peasants.
Don't even give them the pleasure of hearing the car being floored. They don't deserve it.
Continue to enjoy driving one of the finest cars ever built. LHD/RHD who gives an excriment?
DAZ
PS1 - Welcome to PH.
PS2 - Ninja, didn't realise you were SO up for the ruck! Top Man!! in sept 2001, I saw some student during freshers week kick my S-class, strolled up to the group, decked the fcuker, welcomed him to Bristol and pointed out we didn't welcome vandalisitc scum in this city. His mates were a little "quiet" to put it mildly. At this point I carried on walking along the road so they didn't realise it was my car!
Don't even give them the pleasure of hearing the car being floored. They don't deserve it.
Continue to enjoy driving one of the finest cars ever built. LHD/RHD who gives an excriment?
DAZ
PS1 - Welcome to PH.
PS2 - Ninja, didn't realise you were SO up for the ruck! Top Man!! in sept 2001, I saw some student during freshers week kick my S-class, strolled up to the group, decked the fcuker, welcomed him to Bristol and pointed out we didn't welcome vandalisitc scum in this city. His mates were a little "quiet" to put it mildly. At this point I carried on walking along the road so they didn't realise it was my car!
Dazren said: PS2 - Ninja, didn't realise you were SO up for the ruck! Top Man!! in sept 2001, I saw some student during freshers week kick my S-class, strolled up to the group, decked the fcuker, welcomed him to Bristol and pointed out we didn't welcome vandalisitc scum in this city. His mates were a little "quiet" to put it mildly. At this point I carried on walking along the road so they didn't realise it was my car!
Excellent!
While I'm used to Ninja being up for it, you've always struck me as being mild mannered Daz.... This shows their survival circuits were intact; if someone like you decked anyone I was with, reckon I'd be a bit 'quiet' too Hi Kev.
You are right, I am mild mannered, but some times you've just got to say WTF and get stuck in.
DAZ
Edited to say someone once said it's the quiet ones you've got to watch out for. I think there is definitely something in that statement.
>> Edited by Dazren on Sunday 17th November 12:32
You are right, I am mild mannered, but some times you've just got to say WTF and get stuck in.
DAZ
Edited to say someone once said it's the quiet ones you've got to watch out for. I think there is definitely something in that statement.
>> Edited by Dazren on Sunday 17th November 12:32
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