Looking to buy a 355 but F1 or manual?

[chris coates]

Thinking of buying a GTB or spider.only sunny day driving.like the idea of the F1 gearbox but given it was early in terms of development would it be better to go with a manual.how reliable is the F1 box and how does it drive? Driven 360 and 430 types .thanks

[lambo_xx]

chris coates said:

Thinking of buying a GTB or spider.only sunny day driving.like the idea of the F1 gearbox but given it was early in terms of development would it be better to go with a manual.how reliable is the F1 box and how does it drive? Driven 360 and 430 types .thanks

It's all down to personal preference really. Personally I wouldn't buy a 355 with an f1 box because 1) for me the car is a bit "old school" anyway and it wouldn't fit in with the car. 2) Because it is old technology and is a big step backwards from what's in the 430 and other modern cars.

As I said though that's just my opinion, go test drive both and see which you prefer.

[F355GTS]

Chris I have a 355 F1 and it's great, if setup correctly I works brilliantly. Also owned a manual for 4 Years and it was equally as good. If you prefer the idea of F1 then go with it, certainly a benefit when working hard in twisties or on track

[chris coates]

F355GTS said:

Chris I have a 355 F1 and it's great, if setup correctly I works brilliantly. Also owned a manual for 4 Years and it was equally as good. If you prefer the idea of F1 then go with it, certainly a benefit when working hard in twisties or on track

Thanks for the feedback. The car is really going to be used for having the roof / window down and hearing the noise of the engine rather than track days.have a caterham for that sort of playtime! More forgiving and cheaper to mend when I run out of talent !!!... And faster!
I like the idea of driving a slightly older car as people can get the wrong impression of Ferrari drivers and half the pleasure is the beauty of the car which I feel is missing with the 360 and 430 although they are great cars in many other ways.
I think on reflection it's likely to be a manual as the gear change gate is a work of art!

[chris coates]

And gentlemen thanks for the speedy advice ! Going to look in at Cliveden tomorrow to see the line up of cars!
Have a great weekend

[bridey0]

for what its worth ive only driven the manual and if its the whole "experience" your after then id stick to manual. Having recently canvessed opinion the overwhelming verdict was go manual for the driving experience and resale. I cud have course been steered badly!

[F355GTS]

chris coates said:

And gentlemen thanks for the speedy advice ! Going to look in at Cliveden tomorrow to see the line up of cars!
Have a great weekend

Chris

I'll be there tomorrow, I'm taking the Gransport but my Daughter's bringing the 355 Spider, stop by for a chat if you want




btw also a multi Caterham owner although currently without so understand you comments

[chris coates]

Mark.... Your daughter drives the Ferrari....brought her up properly I see!!! Will come and say hi!
Thanks Chris