| Author | Message | ||
| Mark (Markg)
Member Username: Markg Post Number: 413 Registered: 2-2001 |
Never has a problem with cops; Gawkers - well, there was the guy in a CJ Jeep who fell out the door straining to see my car as I turned next to him; the kids yelling "Daddy! Daddy! a Ferrari!!" to a hen-pecked father on a family vacation at a gas station in Flagstaff; the State vehicle that exited I-70 in Green River Utah, checked out the car and got back on the highway; the young lady who strared and said her boyfriend whould be so jelouse because HE had never seen a Ferrari, at a luandry-mat; the Cheerleaders holding up car wash signs in a median strip that just stared open-mouthed but silent as I waited for a red light in Colorado; the man who came up to me and beamed "nice ride man!", gas station in Winslow, AZ; the European tourists on a Route 66 bus tour in Seligman, AZ; the tourists pointing and commenting while driving on The Strip in Vegas; the Big-O tire store manager in Kingman AZ who commented on difficulties with metric tires; the gapping, open mouthed wide eyed look on the young girl in the motel check-in in Albuquerque; the 'what is that?' look from locals at the California Super Market in Gallup, NM; parking between 3 New Mexico State police cruisers at the Giant Truck stop east of Gallup; and on and on ...thinking of touring US in my 308 and writing book about the expierences! | ||
| EFWUN (Efwun)
Member Username: Efwun Post Number: 273 Registered: 2-2003 |
D'OH!! Billy, is that your diner?? I dropped my E55 off for "service" at Competition, and I drove a little further down to my pseudo-brother who is an eye surgeon. I passed a pretty white TR with shields, and what looked like a 355 w/ challenge grille. Was that you?? | ||
| nickm........ (Nickm)
Junior Member Username: Nickm Post Number: 223 Registered: 8-2001 |
Jamil, yep, you are correct! Good guess. | ||
| billy zissis (89tr)
Junior Member Username: 89tr Post Number: 248 Registered: 4-2001 |
I am right between the nissan dealer and the lincoln dealer. They are in the front. Where in St. James were you working? | ||
| Ed P. (Ebp)
Junior Member Username: Ebp Post Number: 88 Registered: 12-2002 |
Hey, I was working in St. James today and must have driven right by without noticing all your cars. I'll be back up that way again tomorrow and make sure I take a look. | ||
| billy zissis (89tr)
Junior Member Username: 89tr Post Number: 247 Registered: 4-2001 |
Thanks DES, introduce yourself to me. I will be more than happy to give you ride | ||
| DES (Sickspeed)
Advanced Member Username: Sickspeed Post Number: 2938 Registered: 8-2002 |
Billy- i drive by regularly to check out the three beautiful ladies sitting out front... i've never seen the NSX out there, but after ogling a what-appears-to-be perfect white TR, a 355 and a Lotus, the NSX would just be in the way...  Awesome collection... (and the food's good, too... ) | ||
| billy zissis (89tr)
Junior Member Username: 89tr Post Number: 246 Registered: 4-2001 |
Definitely EFWUN, I am always in Smithtown so if you want to hookup let me know. I on rte25 between 111 and 347 and you cant miss mee--a white TR, a silver 355, a black NSX, and a black Lotus. | ||
| EFWUN (Efwun)
Member Username: Efwun Post Number: 264 Registered: 2-2003 |
I'm out near Stony Brook. The road I really dread is called "347", a two lane in each direction rolling traffic jam on weekends (and weekdays too!) Billy, I'm glad you've had good experiences (and giving the team a ride is kinda cool), but I've often found the car attracts bizarre, aggressive behavior. Mostly, kids are cool, and sport bikes way cool (thumbs up all the way around, and "be cool" waves) but dudes with their gf in cars often make aggressive displays worthy of National Geographic!! Also, having someone dart in behind for a "closer" look can be unsettling!! I'd love to meet; we are, after all, only about 10 miles apart! I'll be the guy in the Blu Nart 550 with my wife manning the RIO seat!! | ||
| Jamil Jamal (Jameel)
Junior Member Username: Jameel Post Number: 63 Registered: 9-2002 |
Nickm, that Porsche in your profile, what is it? Is it a modified 911 Carrera cab.? Noel that's too bad. Some people are stupid. | ||
| billy zissis (89tr)
Junior Member Username: 89tr Post Number: 245 Registered: 4-2001 |
Where in Long Island are you guys? I am over in Smithtown and everybody respects me and my cars. Just yesterday I took the coasches and the Smithtown Lacrosse team for a ride in my cars. Maybe one weekend we should all meet up | ||
| billy zissis (89tr)
Junior Member Username: 89tr Post Number: 244 Registered: 4-2001 |
William, how many times i have been pulled over by cops is unbelievable. The best part is when they want me to take them for a ride. I have hit 160mph on an expressway by my house with the cop as a passenger. You should only see how many PBA cards I have accumulated. Must have about 35 now. But, knock on wood, I have never gotten a ticket yet. | ||
| jake diamond (Rampante)
Junior Member Username: Rampante Post Number: 85 Registered: 4-2002 |
" ......Long Island is a funky place to drive one of these things" Efwun--sounds a wee tad more than funky; seems downright scarey! What gives these idiots the right to harass you like that ?? | ||
| noel smith (Noel)
Junior Member Username: Noel Post Number: 125 Registered: 2-2003 |
I was parked in a public lot this past weekend and when I came out to my car someone had dumped thier ice cream on my car. didn't hurt anything but I was pissed. | ||
| DJParks (Djparks)
Junior Member Username: Djparks Post Number: 86 Registered: 2-2003 |
"What a long strange trip it's been" Grateful Dead | ||
| EFWUN (Efwun)
Member Username: Efwun Post Number: 263 Registered: 2-2003 |
I just got in from my first 550 cruise of Spring. Forgot how riled up some people here (Long Island, N.Y.) get. Guy and girl in a jeep, the girl was looking at me and my daughter, the guy got red in the face and started aggressively tailgating us. Guy in an Oldsmobile, furiously trying to keep us from passing on a two lane local highway, idiot in a boxster tailgating us mercilessly while gesturing angrily at his girlfriend, etc! Several nice folks too, kids waving from the back of a van, toot toot to them, and several vettes and bikes with thumbs up; traded burnouts with two dudes on Ducatis! Still, Long Island is a funky place to drive one of these things. | ||
| Ernie Bonilla (Ernie)
Member Username: Ernie Post Number: 596 Registered: 11-2001 |
The very first day I got my 348 I had a scary one. There was a truck that got stuck trying to make a u-turn and caused a traffic jam. We are crawling along when I hear the screeeeeeeching of tires. I look in my rear view mirror and, to my horror, see a semi-truck with the brakes locked up headed right for me. Luckly he didn't hit me, but took out a sign on the side of the road. I heard the guys in the car next to me say "He was looking at the Ferrari". | ||
| Steven R. Rochlin (Enjoythemusic)
Member Username: Enjoythemusic Post Number: 274 Registered: 4-2002 |
DJ, First, CONGRATULATIONS!!! It is ALWAYS great to meet another friend of Bill W! And yes, if we had the funds spent back... Enjoy the Drive, Steven R. Rochlin | ||
| DJParks (Djparks)
Junior Member Username: Djparks Post Number: 84 Registered: 2-2003 |
13+ for me too. If I had all the cash I spent in 20 years of partying I would have been able to buy a new Ferrari with change left over for a Fcar daily driver. DJ | ||
| Steven R. Rochlin (Enjoythemusic)
Member Username: Enjoythemusic Post Number: 273 Registered: 4-2002 |
William, >>>...A rock star ? Lawyer, Dr., Drug dealer ? LOL<<< LOL indeed. Especially when i wear my Rasta hat and sunglasses. Must look like the head honcho to some drug ring. Funny thing is, i'm clean and sober for well over thirteen years and naturally avoid that stuff. Do not drink alcohol, etc etc etc. ...and "still crazy after all these years" -- Paul Simon Enjoy the Music (Luthar Ingram), Steven R. Rochlin "If lovin' you is wrong, I don't want to be right. If being right means livin' without you I'd rather live a wrong than a right. My mama and daddy day it's a shame it's a down right disgrace. But as long as I got you by my side I don't care what my people say. My friends tell me ther's no future in loving a Ferari. If I can't drive you when I want I'll drive you when I can. If lovin' you is wrong, I don't want to be right. If lovin' you is wrong, I don't want to be right...." | ||
| nickm........ (Nickm)
Junior Member Username: Nickm Post Number: 211 Registered: 8-2001 |
I had a Slant-Nose 911 Porsche about 15 years ago and used to get pulled over ALL the time. Once, I was told that I should get a ticket for having such a dirty car. That was it, no other reason. Let see, fix-it tickets for tinted windows 2x's, no front license plate, not turning on my headlights at dusk (1/2 of the other cars on the road had no lights on), a friend was sitting in the car at a bar listening to the stereo and cops came by wanting to tear apart the car and search for drugs.(I didnt let them & they went away). Nice huh? | ||
| DJParks (Djparks)
Junior Member Username: Djparks Post Number: 79 Registered: 2-2003 |
I guess for those that want to maintain the Ferrari mystic'one could answer the 'How much' question with "Less than the mortgage on my house" When asked why I bought the car I would like to answer, "When I was young I had slow cars and fast women, now it's fast cars and slow women." Why? Because they are easier to catch. I think the most important thing for me is to show some of the misdirected kids around here that some dreams are attainable and the world doesn't revolve around the party scene. Local dealership in a town nearby holds a charity 'Ride in a Ferrari' for a donation. Kids go apeshit over this! What a gas. The weekend that I brought my car home I cruised through my town of about 12,000 people on a Saturday when a kid in a 'riced out' Honda, parked in a lot, literally fell out of his drivers seat screaming "Nice Ferrari dude!". YEAH! DJ | ||
| William H (Countachxx)
Intermediate Member Username: Countachxx Post Number: 2145 Registered: 2-2001 |
Steven Then there are the people & the Cops who wonder who you are. A rock star ? Lawyer, Dr., Drug dealer ? LOL | ||
| Steven R. Rochlin (Enjoythemusic)
Member Username: Enjoythemusic Post Number: 272 Registered: 4-2002 |
William, Living in a very small town, have the only so-called "exotic" for many, many miles. Since having the car in Late January have been pulled over three times for no "real" reason (from late January to mid February). Virtually every time i pass an officer of the law they seem to take a close look. It was getting so bad i ALMOST made it a ritual to go to Duncan Donuts and get an assortment in preparation of being pulled over(!). A VERY close and LONG look is what i get nowadays. That's ok, they all know i give them the "quarter tour" and have been leaving me alone. In fact one officer said if he had a Ferrari he would be speeding in it! Enjoy the Drive, Steven R. Rochlin | ||
| William H (Countachxx)
Intermediate Member Username: Countachxx Post Number: 2142 Registered: 2-2001 |
So who's been pulled over by Cops who want a look ? I got pulled over by a Cop who wanted to check out the Countach He made up an excuse but I know he just wanted a closer look | ||
| Alex Lee (Alxlee)
New member Username: Alxlee Post Number: 44 Registered: 4-2002 |
Heh, so today I'm out in my Esprit and pulled up at a light in the far right lane. My friend is behind me in another car and there is a truck in the left lane right next to me. I'm looking out the rear view mirror as I see a low black "spot" coming up on us. The people in the truck next to me are just staring at me when I start pointing frantically behind trying to get my friend to look back. The people next to me must have thought I was crazy (as did my friend) until they saw that they now had an Esprit on their right and a black Testarossa on their left. Their heads looked like they were at a tennis match! | ||
| Brad-Mo (007)
New member Username: 007 Post Number: 39 Registered: 2-2003 |
Good one DJ!!!  | ||
| David W Burnett Jr (Dbdreams)
New member Username: Dbdreams Post Number: 24 Registered: 3-2003 |
True that, DJ | ||
| BILL CHIUSANO (My355)
New member Username: My355 Post Number: 50 Registered: 3-2003 |
Funny as hell. A drunken "slobbering" mid 20's girl approaches me @ the bar last night and straight out grabs my crotch w/ two hands and screams out "I FU*&^N' LOVE Ferrari's!! (this is good!!) (NOTE... she is definatly gorgeous!After groping for a few she procedes to "try to speak". Had it been legal I probably would have started right there on the bar. She is having a little trouble and then goes stumbling away across the bar.Had she been a "half" drunk we would have been in the passengers seat "but" she would probably have jumped out of the car @ high speed or something ridiculous. NO SH!T.... I could not believe it.Theres all of about 20 people in this 150+ capacity bar.I just kinda' froze and couldn't believe what was going on .Time to find my date. MY355 | ||
| DJParks (Djparks)
Junior Member Username: Djparks Post Number: 78 Registered: 2-2003 |
Q. "How much did it cost?" A. My last girl friend. Q. "Why did you buy it?" A. Less hassle than my last girl friend. Q. "Is the maintenance expensive?" A. Less than my last girl friend. Q. "How fast is it?" A. Not as fast as my last girl friend. Q. "I bet it's fun to drive!" A. Not as fun as my ...........never mind. DJ | ||
| Ming Cheng (Onlinesys)
Member Username: Onlinesys Post Number: 253 Registered: 5-2002 |
I was one of the gawkers in one of the Sunday morning drive with other gawkers driving their 360/spider, 512TR, 355, 348, 550, P-GT3,turbo, Diablo etc etc. Most of us just got around the Jag XJ220 as it is so rare in HK. Suddenly, everyone just went away and got around the even rarer Merc Prototype CLK-GTR when it was stopped. I reckon people are just curious mostly because they would be interested in something that is rare! I was asked the most questions way back 10 years ago with the most people in this Nissan sCARgo directly imported from Japan(mine with the optional Canvas top as well)  | ||
| Jason Wesoky (Wesokyjb)
New member Username: Wesokyjb Post Number: 43 Registered: 1-2003 |
I am a gawker as well, and like to do some of it in showrooms. Whenever I'm in FLA, part of my time there is dedicated to the Toy Shopp and other dealerships. Ever since I joined this forum, my knowledge has increased as has my willingness to approach fellow F-car admirers. At a movie theatre, I approached a gentleman in a bright red F-jacket and asked if he was an owner. Turns out he and three buddies used to jointly own a 365 (or was it a 330?), but had to sell it due to high maintenance costs. Then his wife came out of the bathroom, tall leggy blonde, and then I gawked! (Dude, if you're reading this, no offense). | ||
| DES (Sickspeed)
Advanced Member Username: Sickspeed Post Number: 2927 Registered: 8-2002 |
Aw... look at the yankee and the southerner playing nice... How cute... LOL... | ||
| Frank Parker (Parkerfe)
Intermediate Member Username: Parkerfe Post Number: 2016 Registered: 9-2001 |
Me, sensitive, no way ! | ||
| EFWUN (Efwun)
Junior Member Username: Efwun Post Number: 240 Registered: 2-2003 |
You know, it seems to me that I, of all people, found an issue on which a notorious pot-stirrer is actually sensitive!! | ||
| EFWUN (Efwun)
Junior Member Username: Efwun Post Number: 239 Registered: 2-2003 |
No Frank, no redneck implications. I was responding to what I thought was a demonstrated sense of humor about the straw and the fence posts in your car. I am not a devout New Yorker, just joking with someone I thought had a sense of humor!! As to the guns, I have no issues there either, actually have tactical assault semi-automatic 12 gauge Benelli, and Model 92 Beretta. You'll have to pardon me, I thought the image of a TR with straw and fence posts in the front seat, and a Remington in the rear window was kinda funny. Didn't realize you were serious!! | ||
| Frank Parker (Parkerfe)
Intermediate Member Username: Parkerfe Post Number: 2015 Registered: 9-2001 |
Efwun,At the time my TR was my daily driver and I used it for everything. I do own many guns and have a concealed permit. I do not have a gunrack in any of my cars at this time, although I did in my truck as a youth. And, while I'm not much of a NASCAR fan, I do acknowledge that Earnhart was a great driver and businessman. | ||
| EFWUN (Efwun)
Junior Member Username: Efwun Post Number: 235 Registered: 2-2003 |
Frank, maybe they were blowing the horn about your gunrack and your Dale Earnhardt stickers. | ||
| Jordan Witherspoon (Jordan747_400)
Member Username: Jordan747_400 Post Number: 568 Registered: 12-2002 |
LOL Kevin, thats great That something Id do when I get my Fcar | ||
| Pat Pasqualini (Enzo)
Member Username: Enzo Post Number: 320 Registered: 2-2002 |
Jamie, When my f-car purchase happens it will be a sad day to have to let the Lemans go but having Italian heritage the F-car just calls out my name. | ||
| Jaime Torres (Chevarri)
New member Username: Chevarri Post Number: 32 Registered: 1-2003 |
Pat, Nice to know that Im not the only who always gets "I used to have one of those". I always thought if this many people had these cars, why are they so cherished,unique, and special? hehe. Nice car you have Pat. Will you still keep it when you get an Fcar? | ||
| Pat Pasqualini (Enzo)
Member Username: Enzo Post Number: 319 Registered: 2-2002 |
Frank, I didn't think pinestraw was concours material? | ||
| Tillman Strahan (Tillman)
Member Username: Tillman Post Number: 471 Registered: 11-2001 |
It's probably due to the color of my car, but I don't seem to get the gawkers that others do. It's possible I just don't notice. One fun story, a while back I ran down to Lowes to pick up some gate hardware in the 328. While I was loading up, a white 308 QV pulled up next to me. It turns out the guy was there to get some tools. We had a pretty neat time comparing the differences in the cars and talking Ferrari. He's in the area, but unfortunately I lost his contact info. Oh well... | ||
| Frank Parker (Parkerfe)
Intermediate Member Username: Parkerfe Post Number: 2010 Registered: 9-2001 |
Once I was at Home Depot in my TR to get some pinestraw for my yard and some 2x2s. When the guy came out to help load the straw and 2x2s in the TR his jaw dropped to the ground. He was then so helpful and went and got some plastic to put over the seat and a little flag to hang on the end of the 2x2s before loading the car. All the way home I had people blowing the horn when they saw the straw and wood hanging out the passenger window. | ||
| DES (Sickspeed)
Advanced Member Username: Sickspeed Post Number: 2912 Registered: 8-2002 |
Mike, i'm flattered, but you'd be hard pressed to get me to flash a male driving a Ferrari; not that i have anything against the male population, i just have no DESire to expose my genitals to people i don't want um... doing more than looking at them... BesiDES, if i flashed men and they reacted the same way women do when i flash them, then i'll be getting slapped twice as much and my face already has hand print marks all over it... | ||
| Jamil Jamal (Jameel)
Junior Member Username: Jameel Post Number: 61 Registered: 9-2002 |
Kevin that is funniest thing I've ever heard. You drive your F50 to Wal-Mart? hehehehe... you must have a ton of gawker stories. Man, if I ever saw an F50 for real life I'd be chatting with the owner for hours about it. By then he'd be so bored he'd take me for a ride in the car to shut me up! :-) Come on Kevin don't be shy, share some of the F50 gawker stories. BTW, Kevin, "How much did that F50 cost ya?". Hahahahaha... :-) No, but seriously how much? Just kidding! | ||
| ken rentiers (Rentiers)
Junior Member Username: Rentiers Post Number: 183 Registered: 2-2003 |
"How much did that thing cost?" (328) "How much do you think it cost?" "Oh - I dunno; about $150,000?" "That's exactly right! Man you really know your cars!" | ||
| Dave (Maranelloman)
Member Username: Maranelloman Post Number: 892 Registered: 1-2002 |
Kevin, that is HILARIOUS!! I like your sense of humor, hombre. | ||
| ross koller (Ross)
Member Username: Ross Post Number: 864 Registered: 3-2002 |
kevin i am still amazed that you drive the f50 to wallmart parking lots, but it does yield good stories. here another gawker crowd story i posted last year but worth repeating: my wife and i went to france for a long weekend in the 512tr. we arrived in nancy and stopped in front of the big hotel on the main square. i went in to check-in and verify where the parking lot was, and when i came back outside, the car was surrounded by about a dozen men looking all over everything. at first i was a bit concerned but they were harmless. they politely backed up when i went to open the door and just waited till i started the engine. as i drove off to the parking lot, my wife said she did not like the car anymore. i was pretty surprised and asked why not, and she said that it was the first time in her life that a dozen men crowded around a car she was in, and not one of them wanted to see her, just the car ! | ||
| PSk (Psk)
Member Username: Psk Post Number: 278 Registered: 11-2002 |
Kevin, Best way to handle it I reckon ... what a laugh you must have driving away Very funny. Pete | ||
| Ghostrider (Threefivefive)
Junior Member Username: Threefivefive Post Number: 97 Registered: 8-2002 |
Kevin, That's hilarious!! What a funny story. You also gotta add in a comment like "Man, the owner must be a real a$$hole!!" -- just for fun. I can only imagine their mouth drop as you open the door and zoom away. Gotta try this when I get mine. Regards. | ||
| Kevin Marcus (Rumordude)
Junior Member Username: Rumordude Post Number: 128 Registered: 9-2001 |
My favorite thing is when my car is parked someplace in a public lot and I am in a store or whatever. THen when you come back and are getting ready to leave, there are some people who are gawking. I always like to join in with the conversation. For example, I might ask "wow this thing looks wicked, what is it?" or "how much does this thing cost?" etc. After enjoying the casual discussion, you can simply say something like "thanks, i've gotta go", unlock it and be on your way. ;) | ||
| Hans E. Hansen (4re_gt4)
Member Username: 4re_gt4 Post Number: 989 Registered: 4-2002 |
Yeah, go Jamil. Just another question. PS - I detect a *slight* bias on this issue: East coast .vs. West coast. Slight bias, but interesting none-the-less. PPS - Despite my opinion on the issue, I never give a straight answer. Usually something a little flippant, and then transition to something else. "Ya wanna see the carbs?" | ||
| Taek-Ho Kwon (Stickanddice)
Junior Member Username: Stickanddice Post Number: 202 Registered: 11-2002 |
The Gremlin? How about a 60's Toyopet Crown? | ||
| Horsefly (Arlie)
Member Username: Arlie Post Number: 871 Registered: 5-2002 |
"Imagine this. You are set up with a blind date. You pick her up at her house. Ring the doorbell to find her standing in front of you and she asks. "How much do you make?" So you tell her, "What's it to you. Obviously you're no Pamela Anderson or you wouldn't have to be set up on a blind date! No shut up and get in the Gremlin cause we're going to Burger King. The Whopper's on sale!!!" | ||
| David W Burnett Jr (Dbdreams)
New member Username: Dbdreams Post Number: 19 Registered: 3-2003 |
Here's the deal fellas, The "price" question shouldnt be the first question a stranger asks and if it is then it is definitly rude and just out right wrong. I think it shows a lack of class and and kinda like asking a girl how much she weighs. Not a good way to start a conversation. You dont have to be rich to have class but you do need manners and respect. I tend to agree with an earlier post. In todays day and age with the internet just about anyone could easily find out just about anything about any car if they want to. On a different note I like to say I dont even own a Ferrari....yet!.....but my gawking story is pretty cool. I live in Alabama and I used to race dirt bikes. One morning I was on my way to the track, I had my truck shining and my bike was spotless. North of Birmingham between Birmingham and Gadsen I was kickin it trying to get there on time when I came up on a red 355 just cruising along. I was definitly gawking trying to get a good look so I slowed down as I drove by. To my surprise the guy in the Ferrari had his kid with him and when I got up along side his kid was giving me the thumbs up. He was actually excited about my dirt bike. I smiled and gave him and his dad the thumbs up back. It was really cool! Also all you guys who go that extra step especially with the kids, I think you are real class acts! Hats off to you and keep it up, you never know when such a small act of kindness could actually change someones life. David | ||
| Taek-Ho Kwon (Stickanddice)
Junior Member Username: Stickanddice Post Number: 199 Registered: 11-2002 |
It's like all these stories you hear about celebrities getting their pictures taken. I'm sure if you're an average guy you wouldn't mind if someone snapped a picture of you, but if every day you could count on tons of people doing this, I'm sure you'd change your tune very quickly. The redundancy of that question alone is enough to drive one mad. It's hard to lighten up about anything when people are just plain rude. Finances and financial situations are private matters. Imagine this. You are set up with a blind date. You pick her up at her house. Ring the doorbell to find her standing in front of you and she asks. "How much do you make?" | ||
| Jamil Jamal (Jameel)
Junior Member Username: Jameel Post Number: 60 Registered: 9-2002 |
You guys have to lighten up a little. You can't expect to own a Ferrari and not get attention or get these questions. Somebody mentioned that if you tell people how much the car costs that's fine. I think this sounds more snobbish than if a gawker asks how much and you tell them. If I had a Ferrari and somebody asked me how much, I would tell them. It's like asking how much HP, how fast is it, etc... Just another question. I think if you don't answer the questions you can come off as being a snob ! | ||
| Sunny Garofalo (Jaguarxj6)
Junior Member Username: Jaguarxj6 Post Number: 176 Registered: 2-2003 |
Matt, They were? I was in shock from the beginning. And like a disrespectful little "ash" I took you up on the offer and made an ash out of myself with the rest out of the targa. If its a stranger never to be seen again, I might stick closer to those questions ;) I still think about that drive. Over and over and.. Dan, your missing out! *prod, push, pull* Sunny | ||
| "The Don" (Mlemus)
Advanced Member Username: Mlemus Post Number: 3232 Registered: 8-2002 |
Sunny, That was questions # 5,7, and 10 when I first met you. I think you were in shock when I let you smoke in my car. Matt | ||
| Sunny Garofalo (Jaguarxj6)
Junior Member Username: Jaguarxj6 Post Number: 175 Registered: 2-2003 |
The three questions I ask when I see a beautiful exotic are.. How long have you had it? How do you like it? What drew you to it? Sunny | ||
| Mike Procopio (Pupz308)
Junior Member Username: Pupz308 Post Number: 184 Registered: 10-2002 |
Eric, It's definitely your town. We all know those liberal Wyoming women! Welcome to F-Chat! --Mike Who still has yet to be flashed in his 308 ...Maybe I should give DES a call! | ||
| Eric (Vette)
New member Username: Vette Post Number: 6 Registered: 3-2003 |
well the "gawker" experiences ive had have been around the vette, and this being a ferrari forum i wont post them. however i do often get that annoying question of how much. i usually answer "too much" and let their imagination take care of it themselves. more often, however, due to my age, and on top of that the fact i look younger than i am, i get the "taking daddy's car for a joyride?" question, or my favorite, at the car wash " so if you wash it you get to drive it?" i swear im gonna carry a can of mace in the car for every person who asks me that. in any case, i try to avoid the how much question... if you answer with a price then, as someone already said, you sorta get a snobbish/rich appearence imho. also, out of curiousity and not trying to be crude, is it just the town i live in or do you get flashed occasionally in your car? | ||
| Hans E. Hansen (4re_gt4)
Member Username: 4re_gt4 Post Number: 988 Registered: 4-2002 |
Guys, don't get me wrong. I don't appreciate the "How much?" question either. But I guess what I'm trying to say is that a little tolerance/patience with the person can yield a favorable experience. Most people know absolutely NOTHING about these cars, and are curious. I was recently asked, "4 or 6 cylinder?" The guy wasn't trying to be a smartass, but was serious. I felt sort of an "You're an ignorant moron" feeling inside, but I kindly and patiently explained that it is a small V8, and opened the engine cover. Ended talking with the guy for 10 minutes or so. He was real nice, but didn't have a clue. | ||
| EFWUN (Efwun)
Junior Member Username: Efwun Post Number: 223 Registered: 2-2003 |
DES, I've told you, put out the damn cigarette, and you can have a ride!! | ||
| EFWUN (Efwun)
Junior Member Username: Efwun Post Number: 222 Registered: 2-2003 |
Hans, I gotta tell you that I'd be happy with almost Anything else as an opening question. I don't even mind the cars who roll down their window and yell, DUDE! LIGHT EM UP!! Just seems that today, people focus mostly on the bucks, rather than any intrinsic value the car may have. Maybe I'm a dinosaur, but I agree with Taek, it's just rude. | ||
| DES (Sickspeed)
Advanced Member Username: Sickspeed Post Number: 2909 Registered: 8-2002 |
Here it is...! i'm a genius...! i have the perfect solution to all of your "gawker" experiences... Come show me your car and i promise, as a certified (read: certifiable) gawker, i will make your 'Ferrari-owner dealing with gawker' gawker experience a pleasant one...! Oh, where do i come up with these ideas...? i'm brilliant...! Contact me for directions to my house...! LOL... | ||
| Taek-Ho Kwon (Stickanddice)
Junior Member Username: Stickanddice Post Number: 191 Registered: 11-2002 |
Hans, I disagree. Is it fast, etc is a good opening question because it's a flattering remark which might yield more information or get a conversation flowing about the car. How much is it is plain rude. Emily Post would be most displeased! You don't ask how much anything is. Those are private things. If the owner discloses that information on his own accord, then so be it. If he does not... Go home, go to KBB.com and pick a Ferrari. Go to any search engine, type "Ferrari 512TR sale" and there's your answer. You don't have to go to finishing school to find out that personal questions are a big no no. How fast does it go, although stupid shows interest in the car's capabilities. | ||
| Hans E. Hansen (4re_gt4)
Member Username: 4re_gt4 Post Number: 987 Registered: 4-2002 |
Actually, I still think "How much?", altho perhaps a little rude, is still a reasonable opening question. What would seem to be more 'car oriented' questions are often self-explanatory. e.g. - "Is it fast?" Now that's really dumb. "Gee, sure looks nice." Obvious. "I bet it's fun to drive." Duh. To the great unwashed, what's left? "How much?" is an obvious question that doesn't make the asker look like a total idiot. The kind of opening questions that you are wanting will only come from hard core car nuts that already know most of the easy answers. "How much?" comes from someone not knowing anything about it, but wanting to know more. | ||
| EFWUN (Efwun)
Junior Member Username: Efwun Post Number: 221 Registered: 2-2003 |
No offense Terry. I've been car crazy since I was 4, and if someone actually evinces an interest in the CAR, I take whatever time I can to talk with them; I met more than my share of arrogant Ferrari drivers as a kid! I'd even do the Make A Wish thing, if there was a chapter here with interest. I just don't like being accosted by total strangers who really only want to know if I'm some rich dude. | ||
| Terry (Dogue)
Member Username: Dogue Post Number: 292 Registered: 9-2001 |
Efwun, I am sorry if it appeared that I was defending the question, I was just trying to show the psychology. I do agree it is rude, but in most cases the person asking the question is misinformed on the actual cost. When I get my first Ferrari in a year or so, I am sure I will tire of the question also. | ||
| EFWUN (Efwun)
Junior Member Username: Efwun Post Number: 220 Registered: 2-2003 |
Terry, perhaps if it was your own car that people were following into gas stations, restaurants, driveways etc., you'd have a different opinion of their first question. Rude, and shows no real interest in the car. Buy one, and find out. | ||
| Terry (Dogue)
Member Username: Dogue Post Number: 290 Registered: 9-2001 |
Oh yeah, Mark you are right that the purchase price is only part of the equation and sometimes the current market values intices the wrong type of owner (those that don't want to take care of the car). I was only trying to show that some people think every Ferrari is $200k+ and that is why they ask how much. I also had a person that thought that a Ferrari was like a MB with a sealed engine that did not need maintanence. When I explained that a 15k mile service could cost from $3k to $8k depending on the car and what needed to be done, his jaw dropped also. I know that this person would never understand buying a sports car that cost so much in regular maintance, regardless of the purchase price. | ||
| EFWUN (Efwun)
Junior Member Username: Efwun Post Number: 218 Registered: 2-2003 |
The point I was trying to make to Hans is simply that a person whose first question is how much? isn't really intersted in the car, they're just gawking at what they think is lifestyles of the rich and shameless Look at the thread on J.Glickenhaus' restoration of his P4. See anyone crudely saying, "Yo, Jimmy! how much dat restoration gonna cost ya, huh?" NO. They're interested in the car, so their questions reflect that interest. | ||
| Terry (Dogue)
Member Username: Dogue Post Number: 289 Registered: 9-2001 |
A nice 308 in today's market would cost approx. $30-35k that would leave a minimum of $10k for a good beater (e.g. a used Toyota Camary) and you have a daily car that is cheaper all the way around than the Yukon and a 308. A 308 that is well taken care of will not cost you that much over a period of time. Sure it is WAY more per mile, but when you consider that the Ferrari is only driven occationally (once or twice a week or so) a major service (every 15k miles) should last you a few years. I know that they are not for everyone and I am not pretending so, but they are not out of reach for those that make the sacrifice. I don't have one yet, but before I blow $45k on a car, I will have one. | ||
| Taek-Ho Kwon (Stickanddice)
Junior Member Username: Stickanddice Post Number: 187 Registered: 11-2002 |
I've resolved to tell all annoying people the car is my brother's and I know absolutely nothing about it other than I'm glad I got to borrow it for the day. | ||
| Mark Lambert (Mlambert890)
Junior Member Username: Mlambert890 Post Number: 65 Registered: 4-2002 |
A rough 308 or really rough TR may cost less than a Yukon, but you must keep in mind that you are committing that money to a vehicle that is almost entirely impractical. It's not fair to draw a price comparison like that because the Yukon is most likely used 365 days a year in all kinds of crazy circumstances. I think purchase price is really only one minor part of the equation, so most folks are probably justified in their assumption that F-cars are out of reach. In 99% of the cases, they ARE out of reach. I can't help but think about my own case... I drive an 03 NSX. For the price of the NSX, I definitely could have gotten a decent F-car. The problem is that I actually use the NSX on a near daily basis and need to log about 7500 miles/year. That means full year, full coverage, full usage insurance plus daily driver level maintenance. The cost per mile on a Ferrari would make that entirely impossible for me. | ||
| noel smith (Noel)
Junior Member Username: Noel Post Number: 116 Registered: 2-2003 |
I never tell people what I paid for the car, I feel like it's condecending. | ||
| Terry (Dogue)
Member Username: Dogue Post Number: 286 Registered: 9-2001 |
At the luke AFB air show last weekend the FCA-AZ had a showing of about 40 cars. I was able to bring a friends 206 GT and because I am really a people person I stood there and fielded questions about the various cars. Most every question session started with How much, and how fast especially in regards to the 206. I have always to answer questions honestly. I do not know what the owner paid and then I go into what a perfect car is worth and that this car needs a lot of cosmetic work. All but one time the person was surprised that the value was so low. I think everyone thinks Ferraris are $200k+ and even more when they are older. One person said smartly "thats more than I would pay for that", but that was the only one. When I explained to a Airforce Guard that the $45k he just spent on his new Yukon, would have bought him a nice 308 and a Beater to get to and from work in, his jaw dropped. The question of price is an interesting one, because I think there is a warped since of what Ferraris cost. Of course if you are driving a Maranello or 360 Spider you won't have the same expression when answering honestly as you will with a 308 or Testarossa. | ||
| EFWUN (Efwun)
Junior Member Username: Efwun Post Number: 216 Registered: 2-2003 |
Hans, I try not to come across as arrogant when someone's first question to me, a total stranger, is "How muchhit cost ya?" I mean, what do you say? I'm thinking that question is a very rude way to begin a conversation. Not interested in the beauty of the car, or the power, or where it came from, or what is it, just How much did the f***ing thing cost. Is that somehow to be construed as an interest in our car? Although not a Pollyanna-like as some on this thread, I've shown my car to kids, and started it up for people too. (I've even offered DES a ride, talk about blood donors!). Still, if a person is interested in the car, there's gotta be more thought to it than, "how much?" The question itself betrays how little the person cares about anything but the expression of money. Screw em, you want to talk about the car, FINE, ask me about the car, don't ask me how much. My opinion, and remember, I don't live in New Hampshire. Wish I did. | ||
| Pat Pasqualini (Enzo)
Member Username: Enzo Post Number: 318 Registered: 2-2002 |
James, I know exactly what you mean by people saying that they used to have one. I get that all the time in my 66 Lemans Convert. I can't even imagine driving around in a F-car you must not even be able to strech without someone trying to talk to you. Every stop light I come up to I have a guy in the car next to me ask "What Year 67" or "Is that a GTO" I can barely drive to the gas station without being asked questions. Maybe I'll have to get some 66 Lemans Hot Wheels to hand out. | ||
| Hans E. Hansen (4re_gt4)
Member Username: 4re_gt4 Post Number: 986 Registered: 4-2002 |
Although the price question may be a bit annoying to the 'askee', it is certainly at the forefront of the mind of the 'asker'. Many don't see what is wrong or bad about asking. I'm always curious myself, and in a past life I would have asked. I don't now, as I've seen how irritated some of you get. But I don't see why anybody should get upset about it. Most of us here have a ballpark guess as to what that Maranello you see in the parking lot is worth, but John Q. Public has not a clue, and is just curious. I think it is important to not come across as arrogant. That only breeds the contempt that some of you have seen. | ||
| Jaime Torres (Chevarri)
New member Username: Chevarri Post Number: 31 Registered: 1-2003 |
Like to say that I enjoyed everyones story, and had a good laugh with Ross's retiree story Well, the exp's I have had were not in a Ferrari(but it will someday!), but it was in my 66 Impala. I was going to my bank, and I was at a stop sign and turning right. A guy in an Oldsmobile takes a left onto the street Im on, as hes gawing and just staring at my car, and giving the thumbs up he runs into the crub! I also wave hello to ppl who just stare while Im driving to, and they kinda wave back in awe. I also get alot of "yeah nice car. I used to have one of those, or my parents/grandparents had one." Every ones parents, grandparents and dog had one! Yesterday evening as I was puting gas in, the guy next to me says "Nice car, what year?", "66 Impala" I say. "yeah I used to have one just like that same year, it ran like a spotted ape",. I reply "Is that good or bad" "Good he replies" I asked him what kind of engine he had,"Oh dont get me started, it had a 350". "buy it new?" I ask. he said "yup" I tell him thanks for the compliments and he said for me to enjoy it, and I drive off. The thing is I shook my head when I drove off, because I knew he was lying, the 350 did come out till 67, and was only avaialbe in the Camaro! And the ole fellas just get all mushy when I say its got a 327, they tell me the stories and fun they had a with the 327 yadda yadda. I like the compliments, but I dont like it when ppl lie about stuff like that. Im sure you guys dont get the "Yeah nice car, I used to have one like that." comments One time as my sis and I were going to the mall in my chevy, I saw a red 355 at Burger King, and I went bonkers!!! I swurve across three lanes and Im bounicin in my sit cause its the first Fcar I've seen in person, and a 355 at that! I go in and go look for the owner I look around the room, and bingo I knew thier was the owner, I ask him real politely "Excuse me sir, is that your 355 out their?" He nodds his head I ask him "May I please take a picture of it?" He nods his head and says "sure" I take a picture of it and admire it while I can. I was going to ask him if 20 bucks could give me a ride around the block, but I think he was on his way to San Antonio. He seemed pretty nice too. | ||
| William H (Countachxx)
Intermediate Member Username: Countachxx Post Number: 2131 Registered: 2-2001 |
Dam those Brits are a rough crowd. I was thinking of renting an AM when i go to the UK, maybe they'll like the AM better. I always honk at kids cus I remember how car crazy I was when I was a kid, still am | ||
| ross koller (Ross)
Member Username: Ross Post Number: 854 Registered: 3-2002 |
amar, yes, all these examples were in london. the best attitude towards ferrari is italy, without question. monaco isn't bad either for obvious reasons. everywhere else is pretty civil, even if they don't fawn all over you. | ||
| Amar Inam (Amar360)
Junior Member Username: Amar360 Post Number: 127 Registered: 10-2002 |
Ross, your experiences sound familiar if they are in and around London - the culture of envy or resentment is hard to understand - even though most experiences are positive. In contrast I have never had such extent of problems in countries like Switzerland, France or Italy, or most places in the US. You've lived in many countries yourself - where was the attitude the best? | ||
| ross koller (Ross)
Member Username: Ross Post Number: 852 Registered: 3-2002 |
taek, i know what you mean, i've had my fair share of dirtbags too. some jerk spit on my window while he was crossing the street; somebody 'accidently' spilled a drink on my car while crossing the street; somebody threw a cig butt at the car etcetc. you really can't do anything coz the situation could escalate and get out of hand, but it steams me ! | ||
| Ken A (Zff)
New member Username: Zff Post Number: 23 Registered: 12-2002 |
Just last week, I was in some traffic and a sexy older blonde in a convertible Bimmer next to me struck up a conversation. She didn't once mention the Ferrari, but that NEVER happens to me in my other car. I LOVE having a Ferrari! | ||
| Randall (Randall)
Junior Member Username: Randall Post Number: 142 Registered: 1-2003 |
I love it when people come up and ask about the car. But I'm still kind of a new owner (<6months). I don't really see the big deal about price though, I just see it as another stat on the car. If I ever feel "wierd" about saying the price, I just mention it's less than most SUV's. | ||
| Mike Procopio (Pupz308)
Junior Member Username: Pupz308 Post Number: 182 Registered: 10-2002 |
All you guys sharing the passion and giving rides, right on. Rewing to August of last year. Was on the fence about buying one. I was doing research, and I got a good lead on a reputable place nearby that could actually do work on the car--I was thrilled, but still wasn't ready to move on any of the 308s I had looked at. That very day, I went to get my haircut--as I pulled in to the parking lot--there sat at red 308. It was actually a lister's 308, Joel Ames. I was looking at the car, and out he came from the store. We chatted. And chatted more--I was polite and so was he, my interest was genuine. A few minutes later, we were sprinting down a local road--just "up the block." And then back. Three weeks later, I found the perfect 308 and jumped on it. Never underestimate what one ride in a Ferrari can do. I now accept and enjoy the fact that the car gets a lot of attention. I just talked to three skateboard dudes yesterday about the car--got one of them to come out Autocrossing with me Sunday. Spread it around! There are two things gawkers do that still upset me. The first is the classic question, asked without any other "introductory" comments, how much I paid for the car. What absurdity! •••• off! The second has happened twice when loading groceries in the back--people come up behind me, stare right into the engine bay asking all these questions, without even saying hello or introducing themselves. If these people would go easy at first, and ease into things, it would be a lot better for everybody. In general though, people tend to be really cool . | ||
| Taek-Ho Kwon (Stickanddice)
Junior Member Username: Stickanddice Post Number: 185 Registered: 11-2002 |
You guys are lucky. I've had terrible experiences with cars and the public. Funny thing is that if only they asked, I wouldn't have minded letting them sit in it etc. I've found people leaning on my car and when I politely ask them not to do that, I get... "EXCUUUSE me, [expletive deleted] snob!" I don't even want to go over what other crap has happened, it's simply too depressing. If only all gawkers could be real car enthusiasts... | ||
| Ben Cannon (Artherd)
Junior Member Username: Artherd Post Number: 229 Registered: 6-2002 |
"When I bought the car, it was to please myself. Now that I have it, I enjoy using it to please others. " Just wanted to say that's a friggin brilliant quote Thanks for sharing the passion Peter! People like yourself make me proud to belong to this community. Best! Ben. | ||
| Taek-Ho Kwon (Stickanddice)
Junior Member Username: Stickanddice Post Number: 182 Registered: 11-2002 |
Timothy, you burned a Vette @ 150-160 mph in a 328? I have a C5 Corvette and have driven a lot of the 3 series Fcars. I didn't think they had the grunt. Then again, never rule out the driver. Drive safe! I know a lot of people who let off the throttle because of the speeds they reach, not because the other car beats them. After a while it gets silly and you should take your fun to a track. | ||
| Timothy Guay (Timguay)
New member Username: Timguay Post Number: 2 Registered: 2-2003 |
Don't you just love when the camless Jap crap tries to pass on the right. I give them a car length or so before dropping two gates with a double clutch keping the rev's at 6,000 then mashing the pedal to the floor. usually by the time I upshift at redline, the Tubi's shatter their windshield and pride. Then it's funny how all these punks don't have the cam to dance over 80 mph, just when my F car starts to breath,let alone pursue me over 140. Only one time I had to commit and pass a Vette on the right at 155-160. Then there's the other hand, like my brother-in-law's "P" DP935 factory slantnose with a RUF race prepped 651 h.p. turbo. We did 10 mph to 140 mph in six seconds (I video taped it from the rear "seat" for proof). So be prepared to munch on a pride sandwich once in a while. | ||
| Ton Visser (Lion315)
Member Username: Lion315 Post Number: 301 Registered: 12-2002 |
When I picked up my 328 from the dealer I had to drive it home for 300 miles. When I stopped at a gasstation for a quick break a car suddenly stops next to me with squeacking tires and two people jump out of the car. I thought that I was being hijacked, but they turned out to be friendly mexican tourists who eagerly wanted to take pictures of the car because it was the first Ferrari they saw in their lives. After my heartrate returned to normal I realized that I probably have to get used to this. Ton | ||
| Dave (Maranelloman)
Member Username: Maranelloman Post Number: 882 Registered: 1-2002 |
Peter, along the same lines, one of our FCA members, who also races in the 360 Challenge series, is heavily involved in Make-A-Wish Foundation. It is also my FCA chapter's designated charity. Anyway, here is a picture of just one of the many, many kids who have realized one of their dreams by sitting in the driver's seat of her race car:  | ||
| steve Lauren (Steve308gtsi)
New member Username: Steve308gtsi Post Number: 40 Registered: 5-2002 |
Noel, I used to live in Chicago by State and Oak so I know what it's like. I once drove my Countach to pick up my sister from a club in the Bucktown area. The owners from another club across the street knocked on my window and asked if I would park it in front of their place and offered to comp drinks all night etc. I was in a hurry so I took a raincheck. I don't mind gawkers of cars cause I will always be one . The only thing that makes me nervous is when people follow you home. | ||
| Steven R. Rochlin (Enjoythemusic)
Member Username: Enjoythemusic Post Number: 269 Registered: 4-2002 |
Peter, A wonderful story... long you live and high you fly. Enjoy the Drive, Steven R. Rochlin | ||
| Bob Campen (Bob308gts)
Member Username: Bob308gts Post Number: 456 Registered: 9-2001 |
I was out for a nice summer drive, was turning at a stoplight and a white Viper was waiting at the light while I was gawking at the Viper the two guys in it both raised fron their seats to get a better look at my 308. | ||
| Omar (Auraraptor)
Member Username: Auraraptor Post Number: 381 Registered: 9-2002 |
Here's a question...how often do you to a headturn to another f-car? I do...and so did the guy I was looking at...we both smiled and all was well in the world... | ||
| Peter Cyr (Pete04222)
New member Username: Pete04222 Post Number: 36 Registered: 6-2002 |
The Midtown Diner, a nice family oriented restaurant, in Lisbon Falls, Maine sponsors a cruise night every Tuesday evening during the summer. There is usually a good turnout with the street rods and muscle cars. Some really beautiful cars that people have poured their hearts into. Anyway, when I am home I usually go with the Ferrari and my Dad goes with his Edsel. The Ferrari is usually quite a draw. I had one older lady approach me and say "You know, I used to drive a car just like this 30 years ago." I said "Well, you must really like the European sports cars." She said "No, not really, my husband said I had to have one." Well, one day my Dad and I went and there was a 14 year-old boy that couldn't believe his eyes when he saw the Ferrari sitting there. He looked the car up one side and down the other. He was very respectful, he did not touch the car and referred to me as "Sir" when he asked questions. He informed me that the Ferrari was his dream car and he hoped to own an F50 one day. I encouraged him and told him to work hard at school and get a good job and work hard at that and one day he could have his Ferrari too. He had never seen a Ferrari before and now that he had seen one I think he realized that real people can and do own Ferrari's. It is an achievable dream. I pulled the driver's door open for him and said "Try this one on for size." He couldn't believe that I would actually let him sit in it and he slowly sunk himself down into the leather seat and I could tell he was driving that car down a twisty mountain road when he put his hands on the wheel. His Mother thanked me and it made me feel really good to make that kid's day. I bet he is still thinking about sitting in that car. To me, this is one of the best parts of the Ferrari experience. When I bought the car, it was to please myself. Now that I have it, I enjoy using it to please others. | ||
| Hans E. Hansen (4re_gt4)
Member Username: 4re_gt4 Post Number: 973 Registered: 4-2002 |
Even GT4's get gawkers. Just going to lunch today I got "What kind of car is that?", "Is it real?", and "How fast does it go?" The real problem is that I never know what might sprout from my mouth when asked a question. Today, after answering "How old is it?" I was asked, "Why did you buy it?" I answered with "I can't afford a new car." On a recent trip to Crater Lake National Park, I had the car parked just outside of the lodge. I could see it from the dining room, my meeting room (I was there on business), and my hotel room. There was NEVER a time when there wasn't someone standing near it gawking. I got in it to move it and overheard some guy telling all who would listen "It's not real." I answered with "The car might not be, but the repair bills are." | ||
| Adam A (Fasttalk)
Junior Member Username: Fasttalk Post Number: 54 Registered: 8-2002 |
People can look all they want, ask questions all they want, I will always be polite, but please DONT EVER TOUCH MY CAR without asking me first, and if you walk up with your kid, take any metal objects out of their hands and tell them to look with their eyes not with their hands. Kids with matchbox and hotwheels near my paintwork makes my heart skip a beat. (my own kids included) I hate it when I get the question "how much?" I usualy respond. Do you want to know How much I paid?, How much its worth?, or how much I would sell it for?. 1) How much did you pay?.... Too much  2) How much is it worth?... As much as someone is willing to pay. 3) How much would I sell it for?... I wouldn't 4) Finally... What is List Price on that car?... List price?? same as question 2 | ||
| Mike Charness (Mcharness)
Member Username: Mcharness Post Number: 331 Registered: 8-2002 |
You guys liked the idea that I give out HotWheels red 308s to admirers of my QV. Well, my friend Kin in Atlanta does it one better. He gives away these HotWheels 360 Challenge cars... and they were modeled after HIS car! That's his car in the photograph on the card with him driving it! He gave one to each of the other F-car owners at our last SE Region track event where he brought his car to Talladega Grand Prix Racetrack (his car has a passenger seat, and I sure enjoyed the ride).  Yes, I had him autograph it! :-) | ||
| William H (Countachxx)
Intermediate Member Username: Countachxx Post Number: 2128 Registered: 2-2001 |
last summer my cousin & I covoyed in the Countach & the 512TR, both black. We stopped at a sushi restaurant & the cooks came out for a look | ||
| William H (Countachxx)
Intermediate Member Username: Countachxx Post Number: 2125 Registered: 2-2001 |
I had to put little notes inside my Countach saying "Please do not touch" That helped keep fingerprints off it. Think I'll have to do the same with the 512TR | ||
| William H (Countachxx)
Intermediate Member Username: Countachxx Post Number: 2124 Registered: 2-2001 |
the other night in Miami Beach on Washington ST around 1 am there was an AM DB7 Volante with 2 drunken chicks with high heels on the hood & 2 guys were taking their photos. I doubt any of them owned the car. Hope its not too Fkd up | ||
| Lee Pierce (Leepierce)
New member Username: Leepierce Post Number: 45 Registered: 1-2003 |
"Ferrari's create such a stir of emotion in people" Very well put, Brian. My friend Hector and I were cruising around one day in my 308 and I was talking about how proud I was to be able to instill that rush of inspiration and excitement in other people. I still always feel the same thing when I see a beautiful and/or exotic car. I love the comaraderie of folks who love great cars. | ||
| Brian C Thenhaus (1day)
New member Username: 1day Post Number: 13 Registered: 3-2003 |
I have to admit, I'm a huge gawker as well. I saw an F40 not too long ago and nearly swerved off the road while doing the biggest head swivle of all time! I always roll all the windows down so I can hear those great sounds. The sounds are almost better than the sight! I can certainly understand how it may get annoying (especially the disrespectful gawkers), but Ferrari's create such a stir of emotion in people, it is only natural for people to gawk. Steve and Matt - you guys are true class acts! When the day comes that I am in the drivers seat, I'll remember your generosity and be sure to do the same for those around me. Thanks! | ||
| Stephen A. Thompson, II (Sat4re)
New member Username: Sat4re Post Number: 24 Registered: 2-2003 |
I posted this in a recent thread: My wife and I were out renting a movie and were stopped by some Girl Scouts (out selling cookies) and asked if the Ferrari was ours. They were going crazy! I let them sit in the car, and they even asked for my autograph! I was grinning from ear to ear! I couldn't believe that a couple of 8 year olds could identify, let alone be enthusiastic, about a car that is nearly 20 years old! I love this car! | ||
| Ben Lobenstein 90 TR (Benjet)
Intermediate Member Username: Benjet Post Number: 1059 Registered: 1-2001 |
We call this driving the fishbowl. -Ben | ||
| Erik Smith (Teenferrarifan)
New member Username: Teenferrarifan Post Number: 16 Registered: 2-2003 |
I am a huge Fcar gawker. In ocean city, NJ during the summer I normally see about 3 Fcars every summer and everytime I see one if its parked I will stop or turn around and check it out. At my house is PA rarely will I come across an Fcar. Over the last few years I have spoken with a few owners and Fcar owners for the most part are very interesting people. The reason is they know about their cars, and are willing to share their knowledge with you. There is nothing cooler then talking to someone that takes the time to show and tell you about their car. All the Fcar owners I have talked with so far have been like this, except for one who was a real Jack***. Erik | ||
| Erik Smith (Teenferrarifan)
New member Username: Teenferrarifan Post Number: 15 Registered: 2-2003 |
I am a huge Fcar gawker. In ocean city, NJ during the summer I normally see about 3 Fcars every summer and everytime I see one if its parked I will stop or turn around and check it out. Over the last few years I have spoken with a few owners and Fcar owners for the most part are very interesting people. The reason is they know about their cars, and are willing to share their knowledge with you. There is nothing cooler then talking to someone that takes the time to show and tell you about their car. All the Fcar owners I have talked with so far have been like this, except for one who was a real Jack***. Erik | ||
| Dennis (Bighead)
New member Username: Bighead Post Number: 44 Registered: 2-2003 |
Lee wrote: >I never did figure out the lighter. There was no removable part, and I could see the coils down in the bottom of the hole. What's the deal? ___________ Lee, my understanding is that you turn on the lighter, it gets hot, and you insert the cigarette into it to get it lit. God bless Italians. vty, --Dennis | ||
| Matthew J Germane (Mjgermane)
New member Username: Mjgermane Post Number: 23 Registered: 1-2003 |
A few weeks ago I went out with my dad in his 360 Spider. While out many people on the road at stop lights would start talking to us. After one such incident my dad said to me "Do people think it is an open invitation to talk to us if the top is down?" I just chuckled. I don't mind the gawkers, but it can get a little much when people are constantly talking to you. It happens all the time in his 328 GTS as well. | ||
| pete (Pete_peter)
New member Username: Pete_peter Post Number: 13 Registered: 12-2002 |
i once took my 348 down to TJ 'baja' to get some body work and bondo work done. gotta alot of gawking from that | ||
| Steven R. Rochlin (Enjoythemusic)
Member Username: Enjoythemusic Post Number: 262 Registered: 4-2002 |
Well, had to replace the complete cig lighter (male/female) and she works great. Remember, these 308's are OLD cars so give them a new lighter. As far as smoking in the car, relax and enjoy life :-) Besides, it is a CIGAR tray so smoke accordingly :-) LEE: if you need help with the lighter let me know. it is farily straightforweard once you drop the "coin" for the complete new assembly. When folks ask what it costs i am honest.... 20 years of hard work. Enjoy the Drive, Steven R. Rochlin | ||
| EFWUN (Efwun)
Junior Member Username: Efwun Post Number: 203 Registered: 2-2003 |
Jamil, I usually try something like "it's just another monthly bill" or something. I don't want to sound stand-offish, but I also don't want to tell people the real number!! | ||
| Reiner Kaiser (Reinerkaiser)
Junior Member Username: Reinerkaiser Post Number: 66 Registered: 2-2001 |
driving down sunset strip in Hollywood on a Saturday night, a group of girls in a bachelorette party was walking and when spotting us in the 348, we were flashed by the bachelorette who had a nice set of D-cup boobs.. | ||
| Lee Pierce (Leepierce)
New member Username: Leepierce Post Number: 44 Registered: 1-2003 |
Seems to go with the spirit of the car, though not necessarily the price tag, to smoke in it. Those Italians are pretty smokin' people, aren't they? That said, I so enjoyed smoking in my 308 before I quit last Sunday! First thing I did was rinse out that stinky damned ashtray which called to me to use it again. I never did figure out the lighter. There was no removable part, and I could see the coils down in the bottom of the hole. What's the deal? With the price question, I always say "less than an average sedan" and leave it at that. I've only had the 308 a couple months, but I've already had some interesting gawking. People here in Tennessee are pretty nice about it for the most part. | ||
| Ken (Allyn)
Member Username: Allyn Post Number: 778 Registered: 10-2001 |
I tell close friends what I've spent on the car plus restoration. I never tell strangers. | ||
| Jamil Jamal (Jameel)
Junior Member Username: Jameel Post Number: 58 Registered: 9-2002 |
Do you guys ever tell people how much your car costs? I've pondered this question before, and if I had an �exotic car� it would be puzzling. This question seems like a double edged sword. On one hand if you don�t say anything it may come-off as sounding rude or being snobby. On the other hand if you tell them, it sounds like you�re showing off. | ||
| DES (Sickspeed)
Advanced Member Username: Sickspeed Post Number: 2846 Registered: 8-2002 |
:::throwing away cigarettes::: LOL, my uncle tried to get me to quit smoking by offering me regular access to his BMW, complete with my own key, my own driver's seat setting and two slots in the 6-disc cd changer (so i could pollute his car with my rap music )... But alas, my addiction's grasp remained strong and i couldn't meet the requirements... (Damn tobacco companies...!) | ||
| EFWUN (Efwun)
Junior Member Username: Efwun Post Number: 200 Registered: 2-2003 |
I'd even give DES a ride, if he'd put out the damn cigarette!! | ||
| EFWUN (Efwun)
Junior Member Username: Efwun Post Number: 199 Registered: 2-2003 |
My sentiments exactly, Dave. I would participate in a make a wish event in a heartbeat; the right kind of gawkers, and a decent way to share our enjoyment | ||
| Dave (Maranelloman)
Member Username: Maranelloman Post Number: 865 Registered: 1-2002 |
Yeah, I have gotten the "so how much it cost?" question dozens of times. I always answer with "I won it in the Italian lottery", which usually draws VERY puzzled silences... As for the kids, our FCA chapter is starting to do events where we also give Make-A-Wish kids rides in our cars. And I always let folks take pictures of my car...as long as they don't take a picture of the license plate... | ||
| DES (Sickspeed)
Advanced Member Username: Sickspeed Post Number: 2844 Registered: 8-2002 |
LOL, Steve... Even as a smoker, i don't know if i could smoke in a Ferrari... i'm the first to stand up and say that the cars are made to be enjoyed and not "museumed", but still... i don't know if i could push myself to do it... To each her/his own, i guess... i guess after that honey moon time period is up, i'll wind up smoking in my Ferrari when i get one, too... The ashes can go out the window, though, my concern is a good cup holder... i really need a Ferrari with a good cup holder... | ||
| Steven R. Rochlin (Enjoythemusic)
Member Username: Enjoythemusic Post Number: 261 Registered: 4-2002 |
Des, >>>...i was standing at least 6 feet from the car, drooling and smoking a cigarette- he came out and blurted, "don't get any ashes on my car...!<<< Sheeesh, well... some guys... Me? Hop in and smoke 'em if you got 'em :-) Enjoy the Drive, Steven R. Rochlin | ||
| Matt (Matt_lamotte)
Member Username: Matt_lamotte Post Number: 257 Registered: 10-2002 |
I got to admit I am a big gawker. It's cool to actually see a Ferrari around here in person after spending so much time on this forum. When I do I'm usually going the opposite way. Had a chance to check out a 360 for a few minutes. I wish there was more around but I guess if I ever own one it will not be too common around here. Thanks to all the owners for putting up with us | ||
| EFWUN (Efwun)
Junior Member Username: Efwun Post Number: 197 Registered: 2-2003 |
DES, if all gawkers were like you, we'd all have flyers and matchbox giveaway toys!! My problem is with the low-rider civic set; "yo yo yo, holmes, how mucchit cost yo? Where you livin at?" With apologies to Steve and others, this ain't New Hampshire, yo! | ||
| DES (Sickspeed)
Advanced Member Username: Sickspeed Post Number: 2842 Registered: 8-2002 |
i'm a HUGE gawker and i'll go out of my way to check out a Ferrari... Once made a hairy u-turn on a busy street to go see a 3X8 but it was gone, by the time i got past the pesky red light, etc, etc... It's rare that i'll speak with the owner, though, since i'm sure they get enough attention and some don't like it... If i see one parked, i'll just pull into the lot or close to wherever it is and check it out for a few minutes, hoping the owner will start it soon, but alas, i've never been that lucky... The few that i've been lucky enough to see within my trafficity (traffic vicinity, no, it's not a real word ) are usually just cruising along and not high-tailing it, tearing up the street or parkway... "Don", that's an awesome story... A lot of you guys seem pretty cool with your cars, handing out toys and flyers and what not... i recall ogling a Testarossa that belongs to a client of ours, when i first started working here; i was standing at least 6 feet from the car, drooling and smoking a cigarette- he came out and blurted, "don't get any ashes on my car...!" But that's NY, right...? lol... | ||
| Steven R. Rochlin (Enjoythemusic)
Member Username: Enjoythemusic Post Number: 260 Registered: 4-2002 |
Matt, That is great to hear! Alas, seem in this small New England part of the world i have the only "exotic" and have asked around and looked for years. Lived here for well over six years and NEVER saw anything exotic. The very occasional Porsche not withstanding. Enjoy the Drive, Steven R. Rochlin PS: could probably leave my car outside for weeks unlocked without any problems as everyone knows each other in this very safe part of the world. The "Police Beat" in our 12 page ONCE A WEEK newspaper is funny. Dog barking and police went to quiet it, squirrel in garage so animal control took care of it... Really funny stuff IMHO | ||
| "The Don" (Mlemus)
Advanced Member Username: Mlemus Post Number: 3143 Registered: 8-2002 |
Steve, We have a lot of exotic's (vipers, NSX, Lamborghini, lotus and a couple of F-cars) here but no one drives them. I have spoiled the people in my town too much by driving them every day. My town is safe and I do not worry about the car. I have left it outside overnight a lot and it has never been bothered. Matt | ||
| Steven R. Rochlin (Enjoythemusic)
Member Username: Enjoythemusic Post Number: 256 Registered: 4-2002 |
Mike and "The Don", That is GREAT! Any more Hotwheels cars out there for sale in BULK (say, 50 or so)? The Don, love the story and truly enjoy how we can have faith and trust in others. Keep the flame alive... Enjoy the Drive, Steven R. Rochlin | ||
| "The Don" (Mlemus)
Advanced Member Username: Mlemus Post Number: 3142 Registered: 8-2002 |
I was at walmart a few weeks ago and has I was getting out of the car. This woman comes over and asked if her sons can take a picture next to the car. I told them they could get in it and take all the pictures they wanted. I just said close the door when your done and I walked off. I came back 15 minutes later and they were gone and the left me a $5 Gift Certificate for McDonalds. Nice people. I still see them driving around town. | ||
| EFWUN (Efwun)
Junior Member Username: Efwun Post Number: 190 Registered: 2-2003 |
Mark, a 512M that can run with a Z-06? | ||
| EFWUN (Efwun)
Junior Member Username: Efwun Post Number: 189 Registered: 2-2003 |
I understand the whole "share the joy" thing. As a kid, I'd have asked "wow, how fast is it?" or "wow, where is that built" or somesuch. Unfortunately (and this may be endemic to NY) I get a lot of "Dude!! How muchit cost ya?" I have shown a nice father and son duo the motor and interior, and started the motor for another nice couple, but unfortunately around here, the questions usually border on downright rude! | ||
| Mark Moon (Enzomoon)
Junior Member Username: Enzomoon Post Number: 62 Registered: 4-2002 |
I had my F512M out this weekend for some spirited exercise. Some guy in a ZO6 with his girlfriend decided to give it a shot. His car was definitely fast but of course the M was faster. Anyhow, his girlfriend leans out of the window at a light after the impromptu duel and says..." my boyfriend thinks his car is so great but That Thing is Pure Sex!!". Poor guy. I didn't know whether to feel sorry for him for the ass whipping he had just received or his disrespectful girlfriend! Forza Ferrari! | ||
| Mike Charness (Mcharness)
Member Username: Mcharness Post Number: 313 Registered: 8-2002 |
I bought a bunch of HotWheels red 308's off of eBay, and I always keep some in my trunk to give one to a pre-teen that might be ga-ga over the car when I'm stopped at a gas station. I may even let them sit in the car if ok with their parents. As Steven said, "share the beauty, share the joy..." | ||
| Lee Pierce (Leepierce)
New member Username: Leepierce Post Number: 39 Registered: 1-2003 |
If I saw my car next to me, I'd be gawking, too! Wait a minute, that sounds terribly arrogant...all I mean is I LOVE THESE CARS TOO, and somehow I ended up driving one... | ||
| Ken (Allyn)
Member Username: Allyn Post Number: 776 Registered: 10-2001 |
When I change my oil in the Lotus (72 Europa TC), I always take the old oil to Jiffy Lube to drop off. The place always empties out to look and ask about the car. And yes, I'm always asked what it costs. I always say buying one and maintaining one are two completely different things. Ferrari drivers always wave to me, and I get a huge kick out of that! | ||
| John Bicsak (Funshipone)
Junior Member Username: Funshipone Post Number: 185 Registered: 1-2002 |
I would say the best one I had was one day sitting at a red light older women in 80's driving a Buick Century pulls along side looks at me gives a big smile and puts her thumb up for high sign. One more when I won last years Itailian style a young boy comes up to me with program open to picture of my Ferrari and asks me to sign picture. I than asked him if he would like to sit in car the smile on his face was from ear to ear.Priceless moments!! | ||
| ross koller (Ross)
Member Username: Ross Post Number: 808 Registered: 3-2002 |
i told this one on another thread a while back but its worth repeating....one of the best ones was when i was driving the 512tr back up to london from rome and stopped for a couple days in monaco. i had agreed to meet one of my friends for a coffee at the hotel de paris (his office is close by). when i pulled up in front, the doormen came scurrying over to take the keys and watch it, and my father went across the street to take a picture of the car. just then a huge tourbus full of german retirees was unloading in front of the casino and they see my father taking pictures and assume i am 'somebody' so they all started taking pictures too and coming across the street to get autographs ! it was crazy ! the doormen fended them off and escorted me to the entrance of the hotel ! now i know what i feels like to be tom cruise hahaha. | ||
| Alex Lee (Alxlee)
New member Username: Alxlee Post Number: 43 Registered: 4-2002 |
My Lotus actually draws a fair number of gawkers as well. Most amusing are the head snapping exorcist head turns. I guess if I found it that annoying I would've bought something more common. Tinted windows also helped too...but I guess no matter what exotic you have, you end up with a bit of the celebrity treatment. Hence my license plate, "NVRFAMS" (Never Famous) OK, that said, what's even MORE annoying, and we just discussed this on our list, is that there seems to be a very large number of adults who find it acceptable to stop you in the parking lot and flat out ask you how much you paid for the car. Is that common for you owners as well? | ||
| Steven R. Rochlin (Enjoythemusic)
Member Username: Enjoythemusic Post Number: 254 Registered: 4-2002 |
Everyone, Personally do not mind polite gawkers. In fact i give them the quarter tour if so desired, and if they want i hand them a flier sheet to keep that goes into details about the car. Furthermore, have hundreds of various Ferrari stickers and give one each away to gawkers who take the time to learn about the car. If they have young kids (make sure no sharp objects in pockets), allow them to sit in the drivers seat (car off with gate locked in gear with Gatelock of course). ALSO, just remembered: just purchased a very small digital camera so if the person/people desire i can take a photo of them with car and e-mail them the photo accordingly. Share the beauty, share the joy, and as always... Enjoy the Drive, Steven R. Rochlin | ||
| Dave (Maranelloman)
Member Username: Maranelloman Post Number: 863 Registered: 1-2002 |
This weekend, I had one carload of teenagers in a 1982 Sentra pulled alongside at a light & asked "Wanna race?" I always appreciate folks with a sense of humor... | ||
| philip (Fanatic1)
New member Username: Fanatic1 Post Number: 50 Registered: 2-2003 |
Sorry guys...........I get lots of gawkers too. I really enjoy it. 99% of everyone is really polite and just enjoy looking at the car....if it really bothers you to have someone look, then unfortunately, get rid of the car.....of course I understand some people can be rude or may looking for the "wrong reasons", but the cars are a thing of beauty and everyone I've had encounters with are really friendly.........enjoy it. PC | ||
| ty (360mode)
Junior Member Username: 360mode Post Number: 92 Registered: 9-2002 |
dave - as a fellow texan, i can completely relate to your #1! 1. leaving FoH and passed a ford taurus on 59, notice the taurus speeding up in my side mirror(they were on my passenger side), lady passenger in the taurus CLIMBS into the back seat, rolls the window down, pulls out a camera and takes a picture. 2. told this before on a similar thread but pretty funny... driving down kirby towards holcombe in houston, pass a car load of girls, can kind of hear them screaming something but i politely ignore, they pull a bit past me at the stop light, girl in the back is furiously writing something on her hand, she then holds her palm out the window, i finally bite, make eye-contact and realize its a phone number. she then gives me the "call me" sign with her hand... who knows if it was a bogus number but pretty entertaining regardless... | ||
| Lawrence Coppari (Lawrence)
Member Username: Lawrence Post Number: 537 Registered: 4-2002 |
Once I left my black 328 in my driveway and went in my house. Some people who were driving by parked on the street and entered my driveway on foot to gawk at car. They said they did not think I would mind. I did. I asked them to leave. We took car to lunch Saturday. We got the exorcist swivel head turns a lot. | ||
| EFWUN (Efwun)
Junior Member Username: Efwun Post Number: 186 Registered: 2-2003 |
Feels like having a target painted on our backs. Lane swoopers galore, and we've had 10 people around the car in gas stations. I don't even turn into our driveway if someone is behind me, because I think a lot of this attention is from the wrong kind of people. (See, "In Cold Blood" by Truman Capote). Tried Blu Nart on this one to lessen the attention, doesn't seem to have worked. I've loved and wanted these cars since I was 8 years old, but the attention is a bit much. | ||
| IJVPF355 (Ijvpet)
New member Username: Ijvpet Post Number: 20 Registered: 7-2002 |
There are more gawkers than you think. We are just mentioning the ones we see. Everyone looks. It all comes with the Fcar territory. I gotta say I like it. | ||
| Dave (Maranelloman)
Member Username: Maranelloman Post Number: 862 Registered: 1-2002 |
Usually, it is one of two behavior "patterns": (1) teenagers or rednecks wanna race in their Mustangs, Camaros, or pickups; I just smile, wave, and let them win easily (it's always nice to have a "rabbit" ahead of me to clear out the revenue agents, er, police) (2) people coming the other way will invariably point right at my car (with their fingers, thankfully) and/or swivel their heads around as they pass Exorcist-like  | ||
| Steven R. Rochlin (Enjoythemusic)
Junior Member Username: Enjoythemusic Post Number: 250 Registered: 4-2002 |
Noel, Only have been enjoying the 1985 308GTS QV since Feb 1 or so. This weekend, for example, had everything from gas station teens bowing to the car to driving to the beach and while there having 20-ish year old gals flashing me their breasts. Too many other good things happened this weekend to BEGIN going into a "tell-all" here. It's a hard job, but someone has to endure this "torture" :-) Enjoy the Drive, Steven R. Rochlin | ||
| Paul Loussia (Bumboola)
New member Username: Bumboola Post Number: 11 Registered: 3-2003 |
On the way to a karting event in nearby Pontiac, MI, on a five lane road, a gentleman pulled up even with my then new 97 355 Spider as I was rolling towards a red light. He was looking over the car with his mouth hung open when I noticed the light had turned green, so I continued right through it and he smashed into the car stopped at the light in the lane next to me, failing to realize that it was even there. My friend and I still laugh about it to this day. | ||
| Dave Penhale (Dapper)
Member Username: Dapper Post Number: 571 Registered: 4-2002 |
Happens everywhere, i often get the hands worship in cars passing by on the other side | ||
| Jordan Witherspoon (Jordan747_400)
Member Username: Jordan747_400 Post Number: 544 Registered: 12-2002 |
Ive heard stories of gawkers holding cups of coffee leaning over the car and spilling it into the interior. Now thats gotta suck! | ||
| Ryan550 (Ryanab)
Member Username: Ryanab Post Number: 303 Registered: 3-2002 |
Everywhere. | ||
| noel smith (Noel)
Junior Member Username: Noel Post Number: 99 Registered: 2-2003 |
I don't know how it is for others on this board, but today I was driving around Chicago and the attention that I got was out of control. I think it was all of the drunk St. Patrick's day guys but I had people dropping to thier knees on the sidewalk to "worship" my car(hands in air+bowing motion). Lot's of hecklers, random comments, girls cat calling(that's fine), and typical dudes wanting to race. I just wondered if this happens everywhere, or just sunny Chicago? |