| Author |
Message |
Brian Kennedy (Kennedy)
Junior Member
Username: Kennedy
Post Number: 128
Registered: 3-2002
| | Posted on Saturday, August 17, 2002 - 8:48 pm: | |
The F1 will make *more* of a difference for a lesser driver than vice-versa. Someone mediocre at heel-and-toe often cannot shift at the optimal point... even those who are good at heel-and-toe are going to have a tough time hitting the shifts at some of the points that I do on my home track... and I sure as heck couldn't hit them without my trusty F1.
The F1 is faster on the track; the F1 is less effort to drive on the street, and that often translates into things like getting to listen to that wonderful engine sound as you downshift more often (since it is so effortless to do so); but you do lose the ability to do the shift-and-clutch thing, which I will admit to missing at times (it *is* fun to do).
However, the F1 is a *huge* part of why I bought the 360; and it remains one of the things I *love* most about it. (Why pay the $$ over a Z06? The look, the feel, the sound, and the F1!)
But I won't fault someone who couldn't imagine owning a sportscar without a clutch... I understand the appeal, just rate it differently.
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Steven J. Solomon (Solly)
Member
Username: Solly
Post Number: 368
Registered: 6-2001
| | Posted on Saturday, August 17, 2002 - 8:00 pm: | |
I agree, and that's exactly what I said. It will make a difference for a Schumacher, it will not make a difference for a club racer. |
J.D. Smythe (Jeff)
New member
Username: Jeff
Post Number: 44
Registered: 2-2001
| | Posted on Friday, August 16, 2002 - 9:06 pm: | |
Solly,
I'm not trying to add fuel to the F1 vs 6 speed conversation. But even if you are Michael Schumacher, the F1 does make a difference. I read somewhere ( i'm still trying to locate the article)Michael Schumacher ran 10 laps with an F1 and 10 laps with the 6 speed at the Fiorano track. The 9 fastest laps were in the F1. That does say something about the F1's advantage. |
Steven J. Solomon (Solly)
Member
Username: Solly
Post Number: 365
Registered: 6-2001
| | Posted on Friday, August 16, 2002 - 8:42 pm: | |
I track the car routinely with a 6 speed, and have eaten a few F-1 drivers. It's the driver, not the shifter. The cars being equal, you will have no disadvantage using a 6-speed unless you are Michael Schumacher and running in Formula 1. Shift time differences just don't mean anything at club level. Plus the 6 is so much more fun to drive. Also have no rear challenge grill, and have been on track for 6-7 hours at 95 degrees with absolutely no overheating problems. This is one well-made car. |
Edward Kwiatkowski (Edward_96gts)
New member
Username: Edward_96gts
Post Number: 2
Registered: 8-2002
| | Posted on Tuesday, August 13, 2002 - 9:21 pm: | |
Thanks to everyone for your thoughtful replies.I've decided to go w/ the following options.
1)red/tan- I prefer the barchetta red but noticed that it appears to lack a deep luster. Almost flat as Scott mentioned.
2)Scuderia shields
3)Power Daytona seats since they remind me of the 365GTB Daytona. The sport seats look awesome, but the inserts are a must-have to me.
4)Challenge grill to dissipate heat.
5)6 speed as I will not be tracking the car. The chrome ball w/ the metal shift gate is another classic touch I must have. However there is no denying the appeal of the F1 tranny.
wm hart-I've spoken to a couple of dealers that are taking deposits($5-10k) in case the model run is extended.
Any other input would be appreciated.
Ed |
Nick (Nick_wood)
Junior Member
Username: Nick_wood
Post Number: 52
Registered: 3-2002
| | Posted on Tuesday, August 13, 2002 - 9:15 pm: | |
I like my M5 for family transport....
The SMG11 has som many settings for auto and manual modes..drives you nuts. Still a very highly rated system, I liked it, I found myself shifting using the sequential shifter..as I could not get used to the paddles moving with the wheel
I do not have the grill, the guage stays below the mid point, however, it does get very hot back there...Ernesto, how big a swing did you get? Track or street?
Nick |
Ernesto (T88power)
Member
Username: T88power
Post Number: 564
Registered: 2-2001
| | Posted on Tuesday, August 13, 2002 - 7:25 pm: | |
I just don't like BMW's... I can't exactly pinpoint what it is, but I just don't like them. It is a car I just can't see myself driving around. I guess I am more partial to the Benzos... |
Racer 001 (Mr_0011)
Junior Member
Username: Mr_0011
Post Number: 97
Registered: 3-2002
| | Posted on Tuesday, August 13, 2002 - 7:17 pm: | |
Ernesto- "I actually liked it so much I was contemplating buying one, then I remembered it was a BMW."
What's wrong with a BMW? |
Ernesto (T88power)
Member
Username: T88power
Post Number: 563
Registered: 2-2001
| | Posted on Tuesday, August 13, 2002 - 7:12 pm: | |
Like it has been said before, the F1 tranny cannot be appreciated or learned in one short test drive. From what I have seen, it takes three to four weeks to learn how to drive the thing smooth - just like when learning how to drive a manual for the first time. It is one of the things that I love most about the 360!
Today I drove an M3 with the F1 system (SMG I think it is called), and I was impressed. The paddles move with the steering wheel like in an F1 car, and are much shorter. Felt very smooth, and very fast shifting. I actually liked it so much I was contemplating buying one, then I remembered it was a BMW. But it is very nice.
The challenge grill is a must for hot climates. My 360 runs much cooler after installing the grill, where you can actually notice it on the gauge and on how hot the panels get.
Ernesto |
J.D. Smythe (Jeff)
New member
Username: Jeff
Post Number: 42
Registered: 2-2001
| | Posted on Tuesday, August 13, 2002 - 1:34 pm: | |
In my opinion:
rear challenge grill is a must in the spider for more ventilation
I didn't get the CD changer because there is a single CD slot in the dash as a standard item for 2002
Get the F1 tranny. I had the gated 6 speed and was not happy with it.
The F1 vs 6 speed option has been discussed to death on this site. And of course it is strictly up to each individual. BUT, read the September issue of Motor Trend Magazine and read what Mario Andretti has to say about the F1. "Originally, I didn't like the concept of Ferrari's F1 gearbox, but the more I drive them, the more I am convinced it's the only way to go. Lower speed shifts still seem slow to me, but they're good when you're on it"
No deposit was required from my dealer because he knew me
I also ordered the electric seats and spare tire. |
Scott A. B. Collins (Scott)
Junior Member
Username: Scott
Post Number: 62
Registered: 6-2001
| | Posted on Tuesday, August 13, 2002 - 1:30 pm: | |
My 360 developed a paint bubble over the right rear fender, over the oil cooler. While repaired under warranty, it convinced me that a challenge grill was worth adding, even for a "non-track" car. A search of the archives will show that the plusses and minuses of challenge grills has been thoroughly hashed/rehashed.
Also, the challenge grill can be painted, which makes it much more "stealth" if you don't like the look--mine is painted.
Other reds I've seen on 360's include Fiorano (a metallic medium burgundy) and Barchetta (a flat dark red).
The contrasting stitching and/or seat piping can really make the interior look sharp.
Have fun.
Scott |
ELI (Titanium360)
Junior Member
Username: Titanium360
Post Number: 115
Registered: 4-2002
| | Posted on Tuesday, August 13, 2002 - 11:35 am: | |
I had driven both the F1 and the 6 speed and found the 6 speed to be much more smoother than the F1 tranny. I think if you are going to track your car often then no doubt get the F1. I just found the ride not to be smooth specialy at low speed. Best thing is to drive both and then decide. |
Willis Huang (Willis360)
Member
Username: Willis360
Post Number: 863
Registered: 8-2001
| | Posted on Tuesday, August 13, 2002 - 11:26 am: | |
I think the F1 or manual choice should be based upon a drive or two in both version. It's totally depended on individual feel and needs.
Edward, you should go to your dealer and get a list of current options. Check out the color samples.
The dealer here in Seattle require a $5,000 refundable deposit. I think it becomes non-refundable after you've given your options list. |
wm hart (Whart)
Member
Username: Whart
Post Number: 457
Registered: 12-2001
| | Posted on Tuesday, August 13, 2002 - 11:24 am: | |
I am suprised that you are "ordering" at this late date; did you have an old slot and now it is coming close to build time? Your message implies otherwise, cause of your question about deposit, contract language, etc. It was my impression that there were already more orders than cars, and that by the time existing waiting list customers are satisfied, the car will be superceded. |
robert di meglio (Robdimeglio)
New member
Username: Robdimeglio
Post Number: 7
Registered: 3-2002
| | Posted on Tuesday, August 13, 2002 - 11:03 am: | |
I would stick with the standard six speed if you are planning to use the car primarily on the street. The modena six speed is probably the best shifting ferrari of all time, and it is more involving than the f1 when you are driving at less than 10/10th's.
I would also stick with the standard seats, as they are more comfortable than the sport seats. I have the daytona seat stitching, which is gorgeous and worth the high cost.
The challenge grill aesthetically is a matter of taste. It does provide some additional ventilation to the engine, which is always good. It looks best on silver and yellow cars, in my opinion.
I wouldn't bother with stereo and navigation options, you'll probably hardly use either. |
Willis Huang (Willis360)
Member
Username: Willis360
Post Number: 859
Registered: 8-2001
| | Posted on Tuesday, August 13, 2002 - 10:51 am: | |
Challenge grills cost much less if you optioned it with your car. The rear Challenge grill option is only about $500. Just remember that anything you decide to add after you got the car is gonna cost you big time. |
Nick (Nick_wood)
New member
Username: Nick_wood
Post Number: 50
Registered: 3-2002
| | Posted on Tuesday, August 13, 2002 - 10:40 am: | |
I ordered the CD changer,NAV, Red calipers, Daytona seats and leather headliner...
I would not get the Challenge grill unless you are going to track. In any case, for under $1500 you can fit one yourself (5 bolts) while getting a standard grill may cost a lot more...I would not get the NAV. I got it as you get a radio anyway and this adds nothing in space/weight..I do not use it!
I have not tried the sports seats, they do look good.
Oh yes, get the F1...it is definately a must. |
Ernesto (T88power)
Member
Username: T88power
Post Number: 558
Registered: 2-2001
| | Posted on Tuesday, August 13, 2002 - 8:12 am: | |
In my opinion, after spending exactly two years with my 360, the must-have options are the F1 tranny, sport seats, CD changer, and challenge grill. I love the scuderia shields on the fenders, but that is a judgement call.
I separated mine with $10K, but most dealers will accept less.
Ernesto |
Edward Kwiatkowski (Edward_96gts)
New member
Username: Edward_96gts
Post Number: 1
Registered: 8-2002
| | Posted on Monday, August 12, 2002 - 11:39 pm: | |
Decisions, decisions. Have some ?'s regarding the ordering process.
1)What are the must have options?
2)Are there different types of red available?
3)Any specific language to be in the order contract(ie exit clauses, deposit refundability)
4)customary deposit amount?
5)Extended warranty available thru factory?
6) any thing else?
I've been following this board for awhile and appreciate you input.
TIA,
Ed |