Porsche 996 c2 to a F355 on the cards!!!

[r8_1ndy]

I have always dreamt of owning a Ferrari and the F355 is ONE of my all time favourites for many a reasons (F40 my all time favourite alongside the F360cs). I've got a BIG itch for it and I really REALLY have to scratch it!! The thing is I can afford to run my porsche which has had its fair share of small problems but i am wondering if the ferrari is a jump financially in terms of reliability and running costs in comparison?? I will be using it as my everyday car (although i only drive to the gym, shopping and socialising occasions) so i am wondering if it will be as practical as the porsche??

[tony h]

In a word, no.The 355's over a decade old, suffers from issues affecting manifold, valve guides,rattly exhaust by-pass valve, paint on GTB, dodgy hood on Spider, shrinking leather on dash etc. Don't expect Porsche reliabilty from a 355. Still tempted? Good, cos the 355 's leagues ahead in looks and desireability, IMHO. Performance wise, the 355 prob just shades 996 and Ferrari's engine note with performance exhaust is to die for.
Insurance [ age dependant] will be around 996 levels, annual service about £700, belts every 3 yrs about £1400. De cat Tubi and Capristo exhaust around £2000.

Loads of info @ www.ferrarichat.com

Rgds
Tony

[craig]

I would also be wary of using one every day. They are not the sort of cars you can leave anywhere without worrying about them. In the end this became too much of a hassle for me and one reason the 911 is so good.
They also have most of their power at the upper end of the rev range and lack lw down torque.

Having said that they are the best looking of the recent Ferrari's and do sound incredible with a Tubi. I would advise on getting the latest car you can as I had several electrical problems on my 95 car.