Discussion
What do you need to know - as far as I know, one of the most reliable Ferraris to ever come out from Maranello...
Sounds dull stock form, but will wheelspin quite comfortably in 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th in the dry *at silly speeds*.... 0-100mph hampered by continuous wheelspin - Stupid, nannying ASR best switched to sport. Post 100mph acceleration plain devastating. High speed stability awesome. Easy to drive. Disguises mass brilliantly. Best car in the range.
Regardless of purchase price, EXPENSIVE to run compared to Porker.
What are you waiting for?
Sounds dull stock form, but will wheelspin quite comfortably in 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th in the dry *at silly speeds*.... 0-100mph hampered by continuous wheelspin - Stupid, nannying ASR best switched to sport. Post 100mph acceleration plain devastating. High speed stability awesome. Easy to drive. Disguises mass brilliantly. Best car in the range.
Regardless of purchase price, EXPENSIVE to run compared to Porker.
What are you waiting for?
They do look very tasty, although I can't help question the running costs / reliabilty. Maybe unfairly, although 'those' stories do crop up now and then. I guess if you have 10k set aside, then you just get on with it and enjoy. I was just distracted as I say, with those reasonable-ish prices.
For the money I'm sure the Porsche GT2 will provide more thrills, with the added benefit that it'll take a real pounding without any mechanical fuss.
Horses for courses I guess. Class v Brute.
For the money I'm sure the Porsche GT2 will provide more thrills, with the added benefit that it'll take a real pounding without any mechanical fuss.
Horses for courses I guess. Class v Brute.
Roadrunner said:
For the money I'm sure the Porsche GT2 will provide more thrills, with the added benefit that it'll take a real pounding without any mechanical fuss.
No doubt the GT2 is warpspeed fast but - Dunno about that..... particularly the "thrills" bit. Got someone on this board that traded out of his 996 GT2 and into a 360M because the GT2 just didn't have *that* thing....
Now 993 GT2 is more like it.
Agreed that Ferrari's do have something extra. More sex appeal due to shape and noise. It does seem to come at a price *sometimes* though.
From my point of view, I'm sure a 'top of the tree' porker, even a tuned up one, will be much less delicate to run. The money wasted is an issue, as would be wasted time etc. Would be interesting to see a long term running report from a few different owners. For example, I know all about 456GT issues - electric windows that need constant messing with, plus various oily troublesome parts - steering rack etc, etc. These all add up to a lot more than is ideal! For this reason I wouldn't ever bother with one. I have trouble imagining a 550M is any different. Afterall, many parts must be shared. Especially the hidden bits.
From my point of view, I'm sure a 'top of the tree' porker, even a tuned up one, will be much less delicate to run. The money wasted is an issue, as would be wasted time etc. Would be interesting to see a long term running report from a few different owners. For example, I know all about 456GT issues - electric windows that need constant messing with, plus various oily troublesome parts - steering rack etc, etc. These all add up to a lot more than is ideal! For this reason I wouldn't ever bother with one. I have trouble imagining a 550M is any different. Afterall, many parts must be shared. Especially the hidden bits.
Don't own a 550, but IMO you either have the "Ferrari thing" or you don't.
Those that do, wouldn't have anything else (money no object).
Every time I get into mine I get goosebumps and a massive grin. Yep, I've only had it 6mths or so but the feeling hasn't diminished at all and I doubt it will.
There may be more accomplished cars available in many ways (my 7s much quicker round a circuit etc), but Ferrari's have the added something that truly makes a car super. Everyone wants a go in it or trips over themselves when you offer them a go...
Not wishing to start a brand war, but a 911 (of any generation) simply wouldn't do that for *me*. Lovely cars, and I have considered a 993 (or v. early RS) in the past (not keen on the 996 shape), but at the end of the day there are loads of them around (not the RS) and they don't have the same degree of "character" (aka faults
).
There's also nothing quite like a Ferrari engine at full tilt (though a Lambo one might equal it). As for the way it looks...
You can get some extremely good warranties on Ferraris these days, aprticularly those newer than 6yrs old. And the warranties don't cost the earth. Buy a 550 with one of these attached and keep it for a year. You'll get most of your money back and a joy like no other every time you see it in the drive.
Those that do, wouldn't have anything else (money no object).
Every time I get into mine I get goosebumps and a massive grin. Yep, I've only had it 6mths or so but the feeling hasn't diminished at all and I doubt it will.
There may be more accomplished cars available in many ways (my 7s much quicker round a circuit etc), but Ferrari's have the added something that truly makes a car super. Everyone wants a go in it or trips over themselves when you offer them a go...
Not wishing to start a brand war, but a 911 (of any generation) simply wouldn't do that for *me*. Lovely cars, and I have considered a 993 (or v. early RS) in the past (not keen on the 996 shape), but at the end of the day there are loads of them around (not the RS) and they don't have the same degree of "character" (aka faults
). There's also nothing quite like a Ferrari engine at full tilt (though a Lambo one might equal it). As for the way it looks...
You can get some extremely good warranties on Ferraris these days, aprticularly those newer than 6yrs old. And the warranties don't cost the earth. Buy a 550 with one of these attached and keep it for a year. You'll get most of your money back and a joy like no other every time you see it in the drive.
Murph - you are totally right. 
It must be truly fantastic to simply behold your stallion, never mind engage the gated slotway to heaven...
The sound at full warp in most Ferraris, particularly the V8s, is well documented as representing the zenith of automotive desire...those who have been at the helm or merely passengered therein during such moments rarely forget the imperious, sonic pedigree; complete, Bo-Derektastic equalling joy.
Their sheer scarcity means they will always trump a 'mere' 911 in the heart-pumping stakes, as will their relative, general expense, both of purchase and maintenance.
The only equivalent, really, is the Diablo but Ferrari is simply, well, IT! Call it breeding, pedigree and an absolute class that you just can't buy.
I really love and am growing - even after 3 years - to appreciate the seemingly never ending capabilities of the 911 but your F355? I just want one. Dribble.
Marvellous.
It must be truly fantastic to simply behold your stallion, never mind engage the gated slotway to heaven...
The sound at full warp in most Ferraris, particularly the V8s, is well documented as representing the zenith of automotive desire...those who have been at the helm or merely passengered therein during such moments rarely forget the imperious, sonic pedigree; complete, Bo-Derektastic equalling joy.
Their sheer scarcity means they will always trump a 'mere' 911 in the heart-pumping stakes, as will their relative, general expense, both of purchase and maintenance.
The only equivalent, really, is the Diablo but Ferrari is simply, well, IT! Call it breeding, pedigree and an absolute class that you just can't buy.
I really love and am growing - even after 3 years - to appreciate the seemingly never ending capabilities of the 911 but your F355? I just want one. Dribble.
Marvellous.
Roadrunner, I think what Andy's saying is that after a year you'd probably want to trade up for a 575 
. At the tender ago of 21 I bought my first 911 "ooh you don't want to do that - six grand if the engine blows up, 200 quid each tyre, billions of pounds on insurance"...they all said...if you want it you'll get it. no matter what people say to put you off. The thing is I'm not sure you really want a Ferrari enough - you'd have been back here playing Devil's Advocate in a far more serious way and we'd have spotted badly disguised pleas for the removal of rose tinted specatacles....
So what about a 328 then guys?...I hear that they're not a patch on a 911 dynamically and that people call you Magnum PI and that they rust, and that they have a bad driving position and that the 355 is a better bet....so why do I still want one then?
. At the tender ago of 21 I bought my first 911 "ooh you don't want to do that - six grand if the engine blows up, 200 quid each tyre, billions of pounds on insurance"...they all said...if you want it you'll get it. no matter what people say to put you off. The thing is I'm not sure you really want a Ferrari enough - you'd have been back here playing Devil's Advocate in a far more serious way and we'd have spotted badly disguised pleas for the removal of rose tinted specatacles.... So what about a 328 then guys?...I hear that they're not a patch on a 911 dynamically and that people call you Magnum PI and that they rust, and that they have a bad driving position and that the 355 is a better bet....so why do I still want one then?
To scratch the itch Roadrunner. To see if the hype's deserved. And to see if the "Ferrari thing" is in you or not once and for all.
Plus, your cheaper 550s are probably approaching the age break point of the better warranties (which I believe is 6yrs on Power warranties) and even for someone who loves Ferraris, the prospect of a V12 engine going pop would weaken my resolve no end.
If there's enough F car petrol in your veins you can even convince yourself that a year's motoring in one needn't cost *that* much. The problem is, if you then fall for the inanimate object...
And as for reliability etc, surely that has to be second fiddle to sheer passion where super cars are concerned. Perhaps that's part of the defintion of one...
Mark - because the 328 is one of the best looking cars ever. But why do that when you know that your other half could be persuaded into a 355 All the looks and less of the worries in many ways (though you'd fit in a 328 nicely unlike moi). At some point I'll take you out in the 355...
Plus, your cheaper 550s are probably approaching the age break point of the better warranties (which I believe is 6yrs on Power warranties) and even for someone who loves Ferraris, the prospect of a V12 engine going pop would weaken my resolve no end.
If there's enough F car petrol in your veins you can even convince yourself that a year's motoring in one needn't cost *that* much. The problem is, if you then fall for the inanimate object...
And as for reliability etc, surely that has to be second fiddle to sheer passion where super cars are concerned. Perhaps that's part of the defintion of one...
Mark - because the 328 is one of the best looking cars ever. But why do that when you know that your other half could be persuaded into a 355
All the looks and less of the worries in many ways (though you'd fit in a 328 nicely unlike moi). At some point I'll take you out in the 355... 550's rock.
I covered 16,000 mile very quickly in mine - and it lived to tell the tale.
Build quality is very good, comfort is excellent (you really can cruise all over Europe and be comfortable) and drivability is fantastic.
This is a great car - fantastically balanced chassis, great on roads and tracks (mine went to a few Pistonhead days).
ONLY buy from a Ferrari dealer (yes, it will cost more) - but will give you peace of mind.
These cars are awesome.
You'll not go wrong in an approved used (sorry - previously owned!) one. Just pay as much as you can afford.
In the words of the Nike advert - just do it!
I covered 16,000 mile very quickly in mine - and it lived to tell the tale.
Build quality is very good, comfort is excellent (you really can cruise all over Europe and be comfortable) and drivability is fantastic.
This is a great car - fantastically balanced chassis, great on roads and tracks (mine went to a few Pistonhead days).
ONLY buy from a Ferrari dealer (yes, it will cost more) - but will give you peace of mind.
These cars are awesome.
You'll not go wrong in an approved used (sorry - previously owned!) one. Just pay as much as you can afford.
In the words of the Nike advert - just do it!
I was sat outside in the sun drinking beer this lunchtime, in Islington. An awesome silver GT2 rolled right by me. This thing is so damn menacing. It looks like some kind of stealth fighter. Awesome.
On the other hand, I saw a 550 in the city the other week. This thing was pure sex on wheels. Deeply impressive in a different way. Kind of sexy, svelt and feminine. Two vey different cars to me.
On the other hand, I saw a 550 in the city the other week. This thing was pure sex on wheels. Deeply impressive in a different way. Kind of sexy, svelt and feminine. Two vey different cars to me.
What the hell do you actually do, RR?
You always seem to be attempting simulation of the beast with two backs c/o an attractive person of the contrary gender, whilst simultaneously quaffing copious quantities of an appealing ale, apparently first marketed in the mid 1360s.
Do you need a driver or something?
Chin, chin old bean
You always seem to be attempting simulation of the beast with two backs c/o an attractive person of the contrary gender, whilst simultaneously quaffing copious quantities of an appealing ale, apparently first marketed in the mid 1360s.
Do you need a driver or something?
Chin, chin old bean
Thom, I'm not well heeled enough old fruit. Just looking for one nice car,low mileage approved used kind of thing, for reasonable outlay, that I can keep for years to come. Alas, I'm not in the 'set' that can change mega wheels every six months on a whim. I'm just a car nut, trying to make the most of my pennies.
De, I'm having trouble decyphering that one. Maybe it's because I'm a londoner....
Or maybe it's 'cos I'm still pissed.
De, I'm having trouble decyphering that one. Maybe it's because I'm a londoner....
Or maybe it's 'cos I'm still pissed.
I can only reiterate what has already been said - these are awesome cars !!! The power and smoothness of the engine is mind blowing, the build & engineering quality outstanding and they are very comfortable on long journeys also. A true GT in every respect.
As Anjum has pointed out make sure you buy from a Ferrari dealer. You pay a bit more but it could save you a fortune. Mine is a good example as the head gasket has recently gone ( very unusual by all accounts ) but has been done under warranty. The bill would have run into thousands. Get the car back tomorrow
Also and most importantly budget to get a Tubi Solo exhaust fitted with a central crossover pipe. This transforms the sound of the car beyond belief
Frostie
As Anjum has pointed out make sure you buy from a Ferrari dealer. You pay a bit more but it could save you a fortune. Mine is a good example as the head gasket has recently gone ( very unusual by all accounts ) but has been done under warranty. The bill would have run into thousands. Get the car back tomorrow
Also and most importantly budget to get a Tubi Solo exhaust fitted with a central crossover pipe. This transforms the sound of the car beyond belief
Frostie
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