| Author | Message | |||
| Dave L (Davel)
Junior Member Username: Davel Post Number: 180 Registered: 7-2001 |
Ed simply said the 308 was great and but it had to go because he doesnt want the expense of both. He said the Vette was in a different league and it is. Comparing the 2 is useless. Given the age and tech difference thats fair. I dont see Ed in anyway slamming the Fcar at all. I suggest re- reading his second post. By the way Barry said it best. A simple congrats was in order. | |||
| Paul Newman (Newman)
Member Username: Newman Post Number: 291 Registered: 12-2001 |
Arthur, I believe it takes more money than talent to race period. Just imagine how many other people are out there that are better but dont have the funds. Nascar is not exciting as far as Im concerned and it has to do with driving in a circle, round and round and round. wow. I believe the sarcastic coments and the slamming of C5's started because Ed suggested that it is better in every way than his ferrari and that he was selling the 308 because it was the wiser thing to do. I cant see that bringing praise on a ferrari site, hence the comments. Im not upset about it, I dont really care who buys what but Im sure Ed must have known it would stir some •••• by posting about his purchase and saying how much better and how great his vette is over a ferrari, not just a 308. He asked for the reaction plain and simple. Its not like we are calling each other a-holes...not yet anyway. | |||
| Barry Wolinsky (308gtb)
Junior Member Username: 308gtb Post Number: 203 Registered: 2-2002 |
Agreed. Whatever happened to the customary and sincere "Congratulations on your new car. Use it in good health?" Everyone and including a member of this forum deserves that. A Corvette is a fine automobile. And, Arthur, I'm in complete agreement. Oval drivers are quite skilled. Racing at 200 mph takes lots of skill regardless of the type of car driven. NASCAR drivers are fully aware of the principles and art of automobile racing. Hell, they even nudge each other at those speeds! It looks easy on ESPN. You have to go to the track to see just what's involved. Barry | |||
| Patrick (Patrickr)
New member Username: Patrickr Post Number: 40 Registered: 4-2002 |
First off, this thread is getting WAY out of hand. From what I have read, I should be disappointed with the car I purchased (2002 Corvette coupe). I guess I could have purchased a used 512TR... no warranty, expensive V12 to keep serviced, having to take it to Dallas (nearest Ferrari dealer) for any major problems. Yes, that would have been the better choice (catching my sarcasm here?). If you can afford a Ferrari, congrats. As many non-Ferrari owners say on this site, I will have a Ferrari some day though. Until that time, I thought it might be nice to hang around as a tifosi. I decided to spend my money on a new C5 Corvette... not bad for a 21 year old in college, huh? Of course this doesn't apply to all on this board, but it is interesting to see that the classiness of Ferrari's doesn't necessary carry over to the owners... atleast based on the off-hand comments in this thread. I enjoy hanging out on this site and I sincerely appreciate the welcome I received from some of you. Comments on others vehicles are fine, this is the U.S., remember? But lets try and be civil.  Patrick | |||
| arthur chambers (Art355)
Member Username: Art355 Post Number: 557 Registered: 6-2001 |
Ed: Great that you bought a high performance car, even if it is a C5. Given their price, it is the right thing to do. If you were able, without consideration of budget, would you buy a 360 instead of the C5? Paul: It does take skill to drive an oval. The difference between who is good, and who is great is just smaller. The greats ones go onto bigger and better things: (Foyt and Adnretti are good examples of just that). Sometimes what looks easy, isn't. IMHO Art | |||
| Dave L (Davel)
Junior Member Username: Davel Post Number: 179 Registered: 7-2001 |
We need to swap the Elise and the 360 around on the R&T test on handling. The Elise won overall and was rated second because its supposedly a poor daily driver. They should give credit where credit is due. It was a handling test not a daily use test. Daily use no one beats an NSX or a Vette. Ed you did well for your reasons no matter what else is said. Its your money and from what Ive read the car is great and should bring a nice smile to your face on sunny days with the top down. Enjoy it | |||
| Doug O (Little_o)
New member Username: Little_o Post Number: 12 Registered: 6-2002 |
Ed, Beautiful car; don't quite understand the bickering, you made the right choice with your monies. Enjoy. | |||
| Michael Fennell (Mfennell70)
Junior Member Username: Mfennell70 Post Number: 65 Registered: 7-2001 |
"BMWs and Mercedes quality has declined immensely in the past few years" I have heard exactly that about BMWs from my friend the Master Tech. OTOH, one nice thing about BMWs from my limited experience (I've owned a '95 M3, '91 318is, '86 528e) is that they all have the same problems. Combine that with an extensive and enthusiastic on-line community and it's easy to keep 'em running well. At least it has been - no experience with anything post-'95. | |||
| Mitchell L. Davidson (Jussumfastgi)
Junior Member Username: Jussumfastgi Post Number: 165 Registered: 4-2002 |
For anyone interested, here is what the race from 40mph between the stock M3 and the stock 6 speed vette (non-zo6) would look like. http://temp.corvetteforum.net/c5/robiferretti//c5vsm3.wmv | |||
| Hubert Otlik (Hugh)
Junior Member Username: Hugh Post Number: 167 Registered: 1-2002 |
Mitchell: I think you misunderstood, Im neutral on both cars: the m3 and c5 are both nice-my point is and was twofold, 1) magazine comparisons are not a tell all source; it's never disclosed how consistent the car was b/w runs, or how much driver correction/input was required to achieve those results; consistency overall will lead to quicker lap times, and 2) I brought up build quality and all that jazz b/c this thread went first from garage ideas(?) to a discourse on build quality eurpoean v. domestic, to performance comparison, to highway challenges, etc. so I was trying to stay w/ in the bounds of all the arguments; therfore bringing up the overall quality of the car. In the end, all I'm trying to point out is that any car is not exactly what it seems off the pages off a magazine-magazines IMO are not the absoloute measure of any cars merit, as there are people that truely enjoy the Toyota Echo and Dodge NEON?-, nor are a one dimensional acceleration test; this doesn't make a car. And I don't want to join the debate here; I just found it odd that the discussion went from build quality/engineering/to performance, and then suddenly to a somewhat meaningless acceleration experiment, as the latter is a no more qualified measure of a cars quality than its cost, sure it intimates at the quality of the car; but only covers one facet of the cars personality and overall build. | |||
| Edward Gault (Irfgt)
Intermediate Member Username: Irfgt Post Number: 1661 Registered: 2-2001 |
I have the advantage of working on the German makes and am able to see the daily use cars and not race cars. As far as a daily use car goes, the German cars rate a 3rd place in my book with a tie between the USA and Japan for first. Since I do not race cars and have little knowledge of high performance machines I am not an authority to comment. My expertise is with the common man and common cars that are used to get from point A to B every day and the BMWs and Mercedes quality has declined immensely in the past few years while the American cars have made the biggest strides in quality. I see many Bmws with door panels falling off and the fabric pulling away from the panels, interior switches failing, power seats failing and air conditioners failing not to mention the famous BMW power steering hose leaks. Half the 7 series V-8 cars idle so rough that the mirrors shake and the Dealers can't fix them and the owners trade them out of disgust.. I am sorry but I am being asked to disbelieve something that I see with my own eyes every day. Someone came in today and looked at my Corvette and said, Boy, these things sure are built better than the old ones. | |||
| Mitchell L. Davidson (Jussumfastgi)
Junior Member Username: Jussumfastgi Post Number: 163 Registered: 4-2002 |
Road and Track, your all knowing "Mags" "The M3 adopts a more oversteering attitude on throttle than some of the other cars. This tendency does hamper its ability to carve out a fast line around the skidpad, registering 0.89g of lateral acceleration � normally an impressive number, but lowest in this group. Through the slalom, however, oversteer helps to turn the car, allowing the BMW to post a respectable 67.4-mph average speed." Skidpad, g M3: 0.89 Vette: 0.98 Slalom, mph M3: 67.4 Vette: 67.3 Transition Segment Time, sec M3: 10.020 Vette: 9.687 Hairpin Segment Time, sec M3: 11.785 Vette: 11.115 Price as tested M3: $49,909 Vette: $49,996 Test weight M3: 3495 lb Vette: 3260 lb Oh yes, and in their "Great Grip" artical testing the cars on a road track, the M3 came in 7th. 1. Ferrari 360 Modena (of course) 2. Lotus Elise 3. Porsche 911 Turbo 4. Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VII 5. Chevrolet Corvette Z06 6. Porsche Boxster S 7. BMW M3 coupe 8. Mazda MP3 It is nice to have a debate on cars and not clinton. ;) Cheers. | |||
| Mitchell L. Davidson (Jussumfastgi)
Junior Member Username: Jussumfastgi Post Number: 162 Registered: 4-2002 |
Hubert, I doubt those cars at the track are stock. And 0-60 times are NOT what makes a car fast, its more 1/4th mile times / freeway passing etc.. Lets see.. the Corvette is faster in a straight line. Takes a corner better. Stops faster. Weighs less with the same Hp. The M3 will have better lap times? I fail to see it. You do admit then that the C5 is faster in a straight line. I can prove it's better in a curve but I want to handle one at a time. We are not talking about build quality, as I admit I would take the M3. We are debating your statments. | |||
| Hubert Otlik (Hugh)
Junior Member Username: Hugh Post Number: 166 Registered: 1-2002 |
Uhhh... "We run them from a 40mph roll on the freeway to remove drivers from the equation." This is about as relavent a test of car ability as saying one is better b/c its available in a more attractive shade of pink. This says nothing about real world or even track limits of a car; not to mention totally disolves all previous discussions of build quality and interior appointments; going in a straight line and comparing cars from the pages of magazine write ups is only the begining of a comparsion at best; if your truly curious about performance; go toa local open track day and keep tabs on advanced groups lap times and car makes; according to magazine tests and articles some of the cars are defying the laws of physics by out handling and out pacing cars of superior breeding. Driver or not; this roll on acceleration test is about as telling as basing merits on the cars name; even with drivers removed from the equation; it's a compeletly innane comparison. | |||
| Mitchell L. Davidson (Jussumfastgi)
Junior Member Username: Jussumfastgi Post Number: 160 Registered: 4-2002 |
Frank, I'll tell you what. We each get together and buy a new M3 off the lot, and a new C5 6 speed (not even a z06) I buy the Vette, you buy the M3. We run them from a 40mph roll on the freeway to remove drivers from the equation. If the M3 wins, you get the vette. If the vette wins, I get the M3. I am willing to put my money where my mouth is because I know for a fact that the vette is faster. If you know for a fact the M3 is faster, take my bet. I could use a new daily driver. E-mail me if you are insterested. | |||
| Tenney (Tenney)
Junior Member Username: Tenney Post Number: 195 Registered: 2-2001 |
The Z06 is about the best performance-per-$ deal going (short of a low-mile Viper GTS). At around the same price point, it has the M3 covered in pretty much any category except passenger capacity and stealth-ness. Agree with those who say quality is up on Vettes of late. Quality re: BMW. I'm aware of an '00 M5 that is on its fourth Vanos, second transmission, second computer, and 20th quart of oil (changes excluded) in 18k miles. Lest one might conclude that the car has been thrashed, it's still on its original clutch and brake pads. | |||
| Frank Parker (Parkerfe)
Intermediate Member Username: Parkerfe Post Number: 1155 Registered: 9-2001 |
Horsefly, one of the things that makes America great is our freedom to chose. I have owned and will buy again an American automobile if the U.S. companies would start producing a quality product. They just don't right now. Our auto manufacturers are to profit oriented and seem to care little for quality control. Just look at things like body panel fit on doors and hoods/trunks on U.S. cars compared to German and Japanese cars. Even the new U.S. plants that make the German and Japanese marques here are not to the same quality as the ones made in Germany and/or Japan. It seems that U.S. blue collar workers have lost their pride in their workmanship and are now only concerned with their paycheck and benefits packages. While the U.S. has lost a lot of manufacturering due to cheap overseas labor such as in the textile market, it is quite different in the auto market. Americans are willing to and do pay more for a quality German or Japanese product than suffer the pains of and inferior American car. Example, my wife's $28,000.00 Honda Odyesse is of much higher quality with a better build and higher quality materials than my $70,000.00 1998 Viper GTS. And my BMW M5s quality is light years ahead of any thing out there made in the U.S.A.. | |||
| Martin (Miami348ts)
Advanced Member Username: Miami348ts Post Number: 2526 Registered: 5-2001 |
being a German national I have always said: BMW and Mercedes Benz is overpriced junk. What they say is quality has lost its touch long time ago and the bad manufactured american cars are actually better than most people want to admit. If I can get the same price and quality made in the US I always go for made in the USA! Cars however are such a different thing because to me it is more than just a piece of metal. It talkes to you and has a soul. I have driven the NSX when it just came out and it was by far the best quality and price and performance you could buy. Still it was lacking the soul. A very disappointing feeling. Manufacturing in the US has long been on the decline. This has nothing to do with what we buy but with what the average salary has gotten into. I will be totally political incorrect by saying: The average American's education is so below standard that he/she may only quality for the same job as a slave worker in China but he/she will demand an executive salary because he/she is American! Your average College Gard knows less than any other Western High School Grad. Here is the start of your problem when it comes to "Made in the USA". It goes downhill from there. | |||
| Horsefly (Arlie)
Junior Member Username: Arlie Post Number: 100 Registered: 5-2002 |
Sounds like everyone waves the American flag until it comes time to buy our country's products, then everything American is junk, and BMW, Mercedes, Porsche, Ferrari, etcetera can do no wrong. So let's all just be good Americans and drive home in our German or Italian cars, work on them occasionally with our Stanley tools (a company trying to move to the Bahamas to avoid taxes), watch our Japanese TV sets, all the while wearing our clothes and shoes that are made in China by slave labor. What happens one of these days when NOTHING is made in America and the vast working class have no jobs and therefore can't afford to buy ANYTHING? Who are the big corporations going to sell their goods and services to then? | |||
| Frank Parker (Parkerfe)
Intermediate Member Username: Parkerfe Post Number: 1151 Registered: 9-2001 |
Edward, if you believe a Corvette has the same build quality and quality of materials used as any BMW, then I have some ocean front property in Arizona I want to sell you. Get real. While the Chevy may be a nice car, its hardy world class. I have a friend with a Zo6 and even he admits that the interior feels cheap. And Mitchell, from the track days I have been to at road Atlanta the M3 turns faster lap times than the C5. Magazine test also list the M3's 0-100kph times as better than the C5. And that BMW straight six engine makes a sound second only to that that comes from a Ferrari. | |||
| John A. Suarez (Futureowner)
Junior Member Username: Futureowner Post Number: 110 Registered: 3-2002 |
I agree with Mitchell on this. I am confident that a C5 with a 6-speed would be slightly faster all around. And the Z06 would destroy an M3. I would also take an M3 over a vette. Hell, I had a c5 at one point, what do I know? | |||
| Mitchell L. Davidson (Jussumfastgi)
Junior Member Username: Jussumfastgi Post Number: 159 Registered: 4-2002 |
"You can get a BMW M3 for just a few dollars more and it is faster, handles better,is much higher in quality of build and materials used, will retain its value much better" While I have nothing to gain, I must point out that the M3 is not as fast as a C5. Even an auto Vert C5. Much less a 6 speed. This is a fact, based on real world data. The M3 also does not handle better than the C5 does, in fact it is around 90% as good. Also, a truism. Now, with that said, I will take an M3. | |||
| Edward Gault (Irfgt)
Intermediate Member Username: Irfgt Post Number: 1657 Registered: 2-2001 |
I think anyone that has a stereotype impression of the quality of a Chevy had better take another look. Things have changed and The Corvette quality is world class and the car wins quality awards that beat ALL other car makers, so how much evidence is required? BMW has never made a car that I would have traded My Chevy Impala SS for let alone my new Vette. Just because it has a Chevy name does not automatically lower the quality. Hell, it wasn't exactly cheap price wise either. $54,340.00 exactly. | |||
| Frank Parker (Parkerfe)
Intermediate Member Username: Parkerfe Post Number: 1150 Registered: 9-2001 |
I agree that the C5 gives you a lot of bang for the buck, but its still built like a Chevy. Remember, the realization of poor quality continues long after the memory of a bargain price fades away. You can get a BMW M3 for just a few dollars more and it is faster, handles better,is much higher in quality of build and materials used, will retain its value much better, comes in a convertible and coupe and even has a back seat. I think it has plastic engine parts too just like the C5. | |||
| Paul Newman (Newman)
Member Username: Newman Post Number: 288 Registered: 12-2001 |
The problem I see with plastic manifolds, at least with ford, is they crack, warp causing a vacuum leak and they cant be modified not to mention, they look cheap. The LS1 owners tried to modify an intake with no success. The LS6 manifold will give you a gain over the stock one. I like to be able to improve things and you cant without replacing things on newer cars. Your 6 speed will give you trouble im sure, the ls1's had piston problems, if your car ever gets pranged I wish you luck on repairing it. The hydroformed rails along with the aluminum rigid tube connecting the engine to transaxle will surely make it a disposible car after an accident. I forgot about the laminated balsa wood floors also. I dont have to wait to shift my trans either, I run a lighter oil than factory and found this to fix a stubborn 2nd gear. Do the 2002 ferraris have trans problems and crumbling plastic? | |||
| Jeffrey Robbins (Teachdna)
Junior Member Username: Teachdna Post Number: 58 Registered: 9-2001 |
I never understood why some people bad-mouth the 'vette. It's absolutely true to its type and is an incredible car for the money. Congrats Ed and enjoy. | |||
| Edward Gault (Irfgt)
Intermediate Member Username: Irfgt Post Number: 1647 Registered: 2-2001 |
I found this on the Vette site, thought it was funny and could be used with a Ferrari picture  | |||
| Edward Gault (Irfgt)
Intermediate Member Username: Irfgt Post Number: 1636 Registered: 2-2001 |
Isn't it the 348 owners that complain about the interior plastic crumbling and chaffing, and the A/C programmers that are failing and no longer available. Don't the 328 A/C automatic controls give problems and the 308s stay hot inside due to bad water valves? The interior of my 308 is plastic covered with vinyl and that is what it appears the Corvette is made of. Isn't the accuracy of ALL Ferrari guages always in question? How about the transmission shifting on a Ferrari, I bet there a zillion threads on how bad they shift. My new Vette shifts perfectly in all gears cold or hot. It does have that Computer controlled low speed shifting lock out that is a PITA but I will eliminate as soon as the parts arrive. The dual zone A/C on the Corvette is wonderful as my wife can dial in her prefered temp. My wife even commented that you would not even know that it was a manual transmission because it was so smooth. I know that the car is still new but there is not one rattle nor any body Creeking sounds associated with the older Corvettes. Entry and exit are easy and it also has a seat reverse feature that moves the seat back and steering column away from you upon entering and then returns to your preset configuration as well as setting both mirrors, A/C controls and radio stations and volume to your preset selection. The top can be raised or lowered in seconds and there is no boot to install. One button releases the rear boot and lowers the windows and with one hand the top comes out and the boot goes down and two windshield header clamp twists and she's up. I also do not understand the concern over a plastic intake manifold. BMW uses them, Mercedes uses them, GM uses them, Chrysler uses them, it saves weight and runs cooler and has no negatives other than ignorant perception. Everyone had better get used to plastic stuff because there will be more. Don't the TR owners want plastic front ends so they won't break every time they go over a pebbel? Since the Corvette body is a composit plastic and the frame is hydroformed aluminum there never will be any rust in door complaints and the car will be there until recycle time. | |||
| Ben Cannon (Artherd)
New member Username: Artherd Post Number: 43 Registered: 6-2002 |
I've also driven a different Z06 on the street, but it is hard to truely probe a vehicle's limitations safely on the street. An aftermarket shifter could really help. Interior materials need a serious upgrade. Best! Ben. | |||
| Paul Newman (Newman)
Member Username: Newman Post Number: 286 Registered: 12-2001 |
The Z06 is 405HP. | |||
| Paul Newman (Newman)
Member Username: Newman Post Number: 285 Registered: 12-2001 |
Frank, if you have ever repaired an engine, you would say otherwise regarding plastic heads. You could never service them, just put them in the recycling bin with your pop cans. Its about percieved quality which toyota and honda are famous for. They use plastic but make it look like quality. The big three hasnt figured it out yet. Ive heard about the cheap interiors on the C5's in magazine articles and from owners as well. If you dropped $200k on a ferrari and saw black abs plastic heads, intake and valve covers, I think you would be disapointed. I agree plastics would improve fuel economy and handling but I would rather not have it. As far as winston cup goes, driving in a circle only takes money not talent. If I was spending $50k US on a car, it would be a TR or a 512 needing work, not a vette. | |||
| Edward Gault (Irfgt)
Intermediate Member Username: Irfgt Post Number: 1631 Registered: 2-2001 |
The regular engines have 350HP. I am not sure about a Z06 because I wanted a convertible and the Z06 is only available in the FRC {fixed roof coupe}. Riding shotgun really gives a good feel of the shifting too. The seats in my car have six way adjustment with electric bolsters and lumbar support for us old farts. Even though I am not a car magazine fanatic, I would suggest a everyone pick up a copy of the August Road and Track. It has some good road tests and some good pictures of the interior which I love. It has gauges for all engine functions as well as a Drivers Info Center with a readout of all the vital functions. They estimate the top speed at 172 MPH and that is at only 3780 RPM with a red line at 6000 RPM. At 70 mph in 6th gear my car is at 1500 RPMs. 0 to 60 is shown to be 4.9 seconds. Since I am still breaking it in I have only seen 100 MPH in 3rd gear while accelerating onto the Interstate. | |||
| Ben Cannon (Artherd)
New member Username: Artherd Post Number: 42 Registered: 6-2002 |
I've ridden shotgun in a Z06 with hoosiers on the track. Impressive, bruteish, and I don't know HOW you can deal with that sorry excuse for a shifter, but impressive nonetheless. The interior looks simply awful asthetically, NO class whatsoever. A camry has a better interior. The stock seats, despite looking 'sporty' also suck. (maybe not if you're a 55 year old man going through a mid-life crisis.) (er. no offence to 50-something mid-lifers who chose a more, ah, 'adult' marque :D) Best! Ben. | |||
| James Dixon (Omnadren250)
Member Username: Omnadren250 Post Number: 263 Registered: 7-2001 |
Ed, Congrats on the new car. I think the C5 Vettes, especially the Z06 are the best "bang for buck" new cars on the market. What is the hp on you car?? I heard they were putting in the 385hp motors from last years Z06 to replace the 345hp motors. But then I read on the internet that all the new C5's have the 405 hp motors. Regardless, they are fun cars to drive. | |||
| Edward Gault (Irfgt)
Intermediate Member Username: Irfgt Post Number: 1630 Registered: 2-2001 |
About the Nascar comment, If you ain't never been then go see one. It is a lot of fun and a •••• load of people like it for their own reasons. | |||
| Edward Gault (Irfgt)
Intermediate Member Username: Irfgt Post Number: 1629 Registered: 2-2001 |
In fact the Toyota Camry is IMHO opinion the best car made if you are interested in point A to B transportation which is what the majority of people want. In reference to the crappy interiors on a Corvette, evidently it is in reference to older pre C-5 Corvettes as the interior in my car is pleasant, well thought out and functional as well as easily readable especially with the heads up display. I say again, If you are not talking about a C-5 Corvette, and you have never driven one then you are not making an informed decision or comment. | |||
| Ernesto (T88power)
Member Username: T88power Post Number: 517 Registered: 2-2001 |
What I most dislike about Vettes is their crappy interior and exterior fit and finish, and the cheesy quality of the interior materials. It is pretty pathetic that my 9 year old Supra has better quality interior and tighter fit and finish. But then again, this is an American car stigma, and will continue to be. And, I dont know how poeple can drive those cars, stuck way inside cabin, and all you see is a long dash with an even longer hood. The performance is good, so it is a great bang for the buck. But, like other people have said, in the end it is still a Chevy, exactly like the other 35K that were sold. I would take a 308 or 328 over the Chevy any time. Heck, I would even take a used NSX of the Chevy. Regarding NASCAR, who cares? Its just gloried demolition derby... Ernesto | |||
| Frank Parker (Parkerfe)
Intermediate Member Username: Parkerfe Post Number: 1143 Registered: 9-2001 |
Edward, with that logic the Toyota Camry must be the best car out there because it sold the most, much more than the 35k C5s. And Paul, plastic heads would be great. The F1 cars all use different kinds of plastic composits for their engine parts. So it sounds if GM is ahead of Ferrari in the engine making curve, | |||
| Edward Gault (Irfgt)
Intermediate Member Username: Irfgt Post Number: 1627 Registered: 2-2001 |
The Stock car Monte Carlo has the hood, roof, and deck lid from a factory assembly line car. The structure can be altered but not the shape. The engine block, which has a high nickel content, and heads, part #12480011 are Chevy manufactured and supplied performance parts available from any G.M. Dealer and are in fact very similar to the LS-1 engines in the Corvette. Go take a test drive! Crow will be on the menu for you when you get back! | |||
| Martin (Miami348ts)
Advanced Member Username: Miami348ts Post Number: 2515 Registered: 5-2001 |
Edward I will. You are insisting and I will. Next week. Weekend is shot! | |||
| Paul Newman (Newman)
Member Username: Newman Post Number: 284 Registered: 12-2001 |
Actually Barry, dales car isnt a chevrolet so he shouldnt be offended. I find it odd that a dodge, pontiac and chev all have the same shape according to the template they use. Nothing on the car is made by chevrolet either. I would doubt but can accept that chevy might cast the block but so what. The car aint a chevy nor is the chassis or anything else stuck on it including the fake light stickers. Let me into the pits, Ill tell him its just a chevy..sort of. I too think Ed will be back after his little fling with the plastic chevy. The rear is too fat looking and there is far too much plastic inside for my liking, even the intake manifold is plastic. If GM could make plastic cylinder heads, they would. I dont doubt that they have tried either. | |||
| Edward Gault (Irfgt)
Intermediate Member Username: Irfgt Post Number: 1615 Registered: 2-2001 |
Martin, just go drive a Corvette or are you afraid 35,000 people were right last year. | |||
| Martin (Miami348ts)
Intermediate Member Username: Miami348ts Post Number: 2496 Registered: 5-2001 |
At 100,000 the required engine out was only once in the 348. As for the rest of the service as I said before, we do things to our cars that the Corvette owners don't : PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE fix it before it fails. Why because not every gas station mechanic can work on them and should be allowed near them. So you change it before it can fail. Just like Frank, you will be back....I can not wait for the story you have to tell in a year or so. | |||
| Barry Wolinsky (308gtb)
Junior Member Username: 308gtb Post Number: 198 Registered: 2-2002 |
Nothing wrong with a Chevy, Frank. Imagine what would happen if you were down at the Talladega Superspeedway in Dale Earnhardt Jr's pit and you pointed to his car and said "it's just a Chevrolet." As far as this Dino-Ferrari thing, I like my Fiat 308 GTB. | |||
| Frank Parker (Parkerfe)
Intermediate Member Username: Parkerfe Post Number: 1133 Registered: 9-2001 |
Edward, again when the day is done the C5 is still just a Chevrolet. But, I know how you feel. When I sold my 330GTC I swore I'd never buy another Italian car. So I bought a 1998 Viper GTS. It was a great car, very fast, handled great and required zero maintenance other than oil changes and new tires. A lot of new tires. But when the day was done and I looked in the garage, there it was, A DODGE ! Now, when I look in my garage, there it is a DINO, or as FNA insisted that my 348 be badged, a FERRARI ! I love it and get a woody every time I look at it. | |||
| ELI (Titanium360)
Junior Member Username: Titanium360 Post Number: 87 Registered: 4-2002 |
Dave, I am redoing my garage now and will post some pics next week | |||
| Dave Penhale (Dapper)
Junior Member Username: Dapper Post Number: 134 Registered: 4-2002 |
so where's all that garage talk gone, and all the great pics? | |||
| Dave Trbizan (Davidt)
New member Username: Davidt Post Number: 24 Registered: 1-2002 |
Why is it that we buy performance cars? To impress other people, or to impress ourselves? I know when I spend my money. I do so for myself. Cheers. | |||
| Horsefly (Arlie)
Junior Member Username: Arlie Post Number: 95 Registered: 5-2002 |
I agree Ed. And how many people would buy a $20,000 4 door family car that would require it's entire engine to be removed for "routine" servicing? The Consumer Reports would be roasting the manufacturer over a hickory flavored bar-b-cue pit. Yet people will pay $100,000 and more for a Ferrari that requires routine pampering at a cost of many more thousands of dollars. Another question comes to mind. What kind of tow truck do Ferrari dealerships use? Would they buy a tow truck that requires its engine to be removed 2 or 3 times every 100,000 miles for "routine" service? I doubt it. | |||
| Edward Gault (Irfgt)
Intermediate Member Username: Irfgt Post Number: 1611 Registered: 2-2001 |
And after 100,000 miles of driving I will have spent for 20 oil changes and the 348 will have had what? Engine out how many times? If the Corvette was rebadged with the Ferrari name, everyone on this board would have one or be waiting on one and the Ferrari Service Departments would be Ghost Towns. | |||
| Jim E (Jimpo1)
Member Username: Jimpo1 Post Number: 577 Registered: 7-2001 |
I see Ed's point. I drove a Z06 about a month ago and I was floored. The gas pedal was too! :-)The car was very fast, well put together and tight as a drum. I don't want one, but I understand why people do. | |||
| Martin (Miami348ts)
Intermediate Member Username: Miami348ts Post Number: 2493 Registered: 5-2001 |
But Ed that exactly is the problem. Compare aples and oranges. Your 308 is 20 years old vs a 2002 Corvette. If I compare my 348 vs your C5 you will see I have fully funtioning AC, I have no issues with my 348 in terms of not making it some place. I have power under the hood that will blow your C5 at top speed and still my car is 12 years old vs your new C5. Here I am giving you the same cost comparparision as well $50K for your Vette and $50K for my 348 so you can not argue with me about the price difference. The only argument I can see is that you can claim nobody has glued a boogger onto your floor mats, which I do not know in my case | |||
| Frank Parker (Parkerfe)
Intermediate Member Username: Parkerfe Post Number: 1123 Registered: 9-2001 |
Edward, I have to admit that you are correct, the 308 is not in the same league as the Vette. The 308 is in a MUCH higher league ! While the Vette may be newer, more modern and less expensive to own, when the day is done, it's still just a Chevrolet. I much rather have the Dino. | |||
| Edward Gault (Irfgt)
Intermediate Member Username: Irfgt Post Number: 1604 Registered: 2-2001 |
If anyone ever bases a Corvette opinion on a pre C-5 Car then you are not comparing the same cars. Believe me I would not have an older Corvette either. Go Drive a C-5 and you will understand what I and 30,000 + customers just last year have discovered. | |||
| Martin (Miami348ts)
Intermediate Member Username: Miami348ts Post Number: 2461 Registered: 5-2001 |
Arlie, as far as breaking down in the road, I yet have to break down in the road in my car. The week that I had the Stingray I broke down twice, besides the car breaking into pieces losing all kinds of things in the road. (I know that is not a C5 and they did improve) As far as a POS this is my opinion. Having driven a C4 on the Autobahn in Germany I had the most disappointing experience. That thing would not go past 120Mph and flet like it was riding on ice insterads of glueing onto the road. Frightning! Driving a same year TR on the same stretch (from work to home) that car went straight to 190Mph and flet like on rails. AT THE END Ed needs to be happy. Hope he is, but have a feeling he will join F-Ownership soon after he sold his car | |||
| Dave L (Davel)
Junior Member Username: Davel Post Number: 173 Registered: 7-2001 |
Ed summed it up the best....whatever he is losing....attention...not being looked at etc or money...this works for him...Thats all that counts. | |||
| Edward Gault (Irfgt)
Intermediate Member Username: Irfgt Post Number: 1603 Registered: 2-2001 |
Martin, there is no doubt that I am loosing more money but I am getting a lot more car and that is much more important to me. | |||
| Paul Newman (Newman)
Member Username: Newman Post Number: 279 Registered: 12-2001 |
Also, I dont think a c5 is a bad car, infact, I like them but for myself, I would like a C5 in addition to a ferrari, not in place of one. | |||
| Paul Newman (Newman)
Member Username: Newman Post Number: 278 Registered: 12-2001 |
DaveL, martin commented on the $$ figures because Ed mentioned that as one of the reasons for jumping from a ferrari to a vette. Why not point out what it really costs in depreciation when buying a new car? Like Ed said, the kid walked right past it to see the 308. That tells the story right there. Ed will get used to not being looked at now when he drives down the road. | |||
| Frank Parker (Parkerfe)
Intermediate Member Username: Parkerfe Post Number: 1115 Registered: 9-2001 |
Horsefly, while a new Corvette may be a little more reliable ; more people would offer to pick me up on the side of the road with a broke down Ferrari than with a broke down Vette . | |||
| Frank Parker (Parkerfe)
Intermediate Member Username: Parkerfe Post Number: 1114 Registered: 9-2001 |
Edward, the new Viper IS a convertible. It's not like the targa type convertible of the old Viper RT. And, a removable hardtop will be a future option. I had a 1998 Viper GTS and it was faster than anything I have ever driven. It was a handful at the track ! But, I sold it to buy my 2000 M5 because I needed a back seat for my daily driver. Now I have the M5 when I need the room and the 348 Spider when I need the fun. | |||
| Horsefly (Arlie)
Junior Member Username: Arlie Post Number: 85 Registered: 5-2002 |
If you had to drive several hundred miles distance and wanted to do so with reliability as well as style and GUARANTEE within reason that your trip would be without trouble, which would you rather drive, an OLD Ferrari or a NEW Corvette? Suppose, for the sake of argument, that you were carrying a passenger such as your wife/girlfriend/mother or whoever and that in the event of a breakdown, they would also have to walk for help or be greatly inconvenienced? Now which is a better deal, Ferrari or Corvette? | |||
| David White (Dwhite)
New member Username: Dwhite Post Number: 31 Registered: 7-2002 |
Beautiful C-5, they are great. Looked at one 2 months ago - red conv. My problem is the number on the road, for me, I just can't drive the masses supercar. They are wonderful though, enjoy. | |||
| Dave L (Davel)
Junior Member Username: Davel Post Number: 171 Registered: 7-2001 |
Yo Martin. Why are you calling Ed's new car a POS. If meant in a lively comical way ok...but its just a car and we drive what we like. He feels he is getting value for his money. No matter how you calculate it...its his money and his car. Its not a POS. Respect what he bought and why. I remember Modman saying he pulled his 348 interior apart and it was a POS in his opinion. There is room for crap in any make. Even Ferrari. | |||
| Martin (Miami348ts)
Intermediate Member Username: Miami348ts Post Number: 2455 Registered: 5-2001 |
Edward, your calculation ther eis the best reason why you are BETTER of buying a used Ferrari! YOu bought it for $ 20,000, you put another $20,000 into it. You drove it for 2 years (?) and today's value is $ 30,000. So in all you lost $10,000. Your initial investment with the GM POS is $50,000, you do not have to spend a dime in the next two years and then it is worth $35,000 if you are lucky. Besides the higher initial investment which is costing you $2,500 more per year you also lose $15,000 in value. You you are $20K in the hole after the 2 years of steril GM ownership. I am not a brain surgeon, but I can calculate and that is NOT a good deal! | |||
| Edward Gault (Irfgt)
Intermediate Member Username: Irfgt Post Number: 1600 Registered: 2-2001 |
I have never driven a Viper so I cannot make a comparison. I am sure the Viper is faster since it has more HP. I did not want a Z06 because I wanted a convertible. The Viper convertible top is a POS. The car I just got has more power than any human being could ever need IMHO. I just had an 8 year old boy com into my shop and walked right past my new Vette to look at the Ferrari. Big let down. | |||
| Frank Parker (Parkerfe)
Intermediate Member Username: Parkerfe Post Number: 1111 Registered: 9-2001 |
Edward, while I agree that the C5 Corvette is great, especially the Z06, it is still as great of a sports car as the Viper GTS . And the new Viper is even better from what I've read. I will opt for the Viper over the C5 any day of the week. | |||
| Tyler (Bahiaau)
Member Username: Bahiaau Post Number: 339 Registered: 12-2001 |
Congrats on the C5 Ed! They really are great cars. Shoot me an email with some pics and your asking price when you are ready to sell, I have a good friend looking for a well cared for 308. | |||
| Edward Gault (Irfgt)
Intermediate Member Username: Irfgt Post Number: 1598 Registered: 2-2001 |
There were 6000 Corvairs made the last production year of 1969. I have always said I would be buried in my Corvair, but I guess I will give it to my son. | |||
| Horsefly (Arlie)
Junior Member Username: Arlie Post Number: 84 Registered: 5-2002 |
I thought they stopped making Corvairs back in 1969? | |||
| BobD (Bobd)
Member Username: Bobd Post Number: 527 Registered: 3-2001 |
Ed, I understand where you're coming from... I consider myself to be a "been there, done that" type of person too. I do fairly well but I'm certainly not rich although rich is a very relative term... especially in today's market condition. I've had my 328 for 3 1/2 yrs now and have no desire to move into an upgraded F-car. What I really want to do is retire in less than 10 yrs and play golf 5 days a week in San Diego... and I will. My car has been maintenance free to this point but the last thing I want to do at this stage is drop $20K into it for repairs. Fortunately, it doesn't need anything today. Based on what I read here, I guess I got very lucky and chose a car that wasn't severly abused during its first 10 yrs of life. Bottom line, the F-car thing is fun but there are other things in life much more important to me. Although a he11 of a lot of fun, it certainly isn't a cheap habit. But I think we all know that going in. So what's the plan for the Corvair? I assume it will be buried with you some day? | |||
| Barry Wolinsky (308gtb)
Junior Member Username: 308gtb Post Number: 190 Registered: 2-2002 |
Congratulations on the 2003 Corvette, Ed. I know when the time comes you will indeed miss the 308 GTSi. From all I've read here, it sounds like it's an improved version. Someone will be very fortunate to get it. Barry | |||
| Edward Gault (Irfgt)
Intermediate Member Username: Irfgt Post Number: 1597 Registered: 2-2001 |
I guess it is time fro me to chime in on this debate. Since I have a 1982 308 and a 2003 Corvette I feel as though I should be able to compare as well or better than anyone. Also since I have repaired older Corvettes a thousand to one over Ferraris I can compare there too. If I was comparing a 1982 Corvette to my Ferrari in like conditions it would be a toss up. Both, by todays standards are pretty crude cars. The Corvette would get the edge with much lower parts prices to restore and maintain but the Ferrari would blow the Vettes doors off with it's eye appeal. Now for the 2003. If anyone has never driven or owned a C-5 Corvette they know that they are not the same as older Vettes. Not even close. I have never driven a 360 or 355 but price alone gives the nod to the Corvette. Also the Corvette will be riding down the road when the Ferrari is in for $$$$ maintainence. The Corvette has a 350 HP engine with 6 speed and is rated at 29 mpg highway. I paid a third of what a 355 would cost and was able to find what I wanted in a few hours drive and was able to test drive without question and without someone gawking at my watch. The Corvette has a flawless paint job and all panels fit perfectly and there is not a rattle to be found. It starts instantly and is ready to drive immediately and immediately can be shifted through all the gears, very smoothly I might add. It has an aluminum frame and fiberglass body so rust will never be a worry. The Corvette is a volume produced car so therefore it's value will diminish over time but it won't break someone who buys it later who wants to restore it. I will never own a newer Ferrari than the one I have simply because I do not feel that they are worth their initial price and the price to keep it going. In all reality the 308s should be worth more than they are, especially a well cared for one or one with the bugs worked out. I spent $20,000 for mine initially and have added another $20,000 in parts and restoration without adding in any of my labor to build a car that is worth maybe $30,000. While fun, this makes no economic sense and you can use words like passion or love but in the end, with me, it comes down to dollars and common sense. Even after a few years when the Corvette has depreciated down to the Ferraris current going price,it will still be a better buy as you are getting a better car. Not a Ferrari, but a better car. I have enjoyed my Ferrari and have had a lot of fun and have learned a lot, but I have always been an honest person, especially to myself and in all honesty and in my own personal opinion,the New Corvettes are the best Sports Cars in the world for the money and I am proud to own the 602nd 2003 made. By the way I have a dandy 1982 308 GTSI that I will part with and will really miss, if anyone is interested. | |||
| Jack (Gilles27)
Member Username: Gilles27 Post Number: 481 Registered: 3-2002 |
Paul, if you're considering yellow as a background color, I just painted my basement, aka the F1 Lounge, a sort of "school bus", or "Kodak" yellow. It looks great.Too much Fly yellow on the walls will give you a headache! Anyway, makes a great background for my F1/Ferrari pieces. | |||
| Horsefly (Arlie)
Junior Member Username: Arlie Post Number: 83 Registered: 5-2002 |
Well, I don't have the Ferrari yet, and only time (and $$$) will tell if I ever do. But I do have one Ferrari flag that a friend of mine purchased at the Leaning Tower of Pisa gift shop. So at least my Ferrari flag came from Italy. And the price was only about $6 U.S. So maybe I'll plant this flag in a flowerpot and see if a 308 grows! | |||
| Paul Newman (Newman)
Member Username: Newman Post Number: 277 Registered: 12-2001 |
Horsefly, Frank hit the nail on the head when he said driving to the store is an experience. I feel the same way. Forgive the coment but mine is 'just' a 308, not TR or a 512 but someday Ill have one. Even though its a 308, its a blast to drive. Moreso than any of my old Mopars were. I wont go back to a Northamerican muscle car again now that Ive tasted whats in store for me owning a ferrari. I do my own work as well so cost isnt a big factor. I find my 308 no more troublesome than a cuda or challenger. The parts are on par price wise as well. I was sick of the rising costs with owning and restoring the last cuda I owned and decided I had enough. The workmanship that goes into a ferrari is lightyears ahead of any old musclecar. The racing technology that goes into a ferrari makes a musclecar laughable. I have seen the light and am changed forever. A 67 tripower vette is fast and nice looking but isnt a ferrari and until you own one you cant realy see what it is we are trying to say. I cant explain it other than saying its a ferrari and sometimes that sounds stupid or corny but I dont know how else to say it. I didnt realize completely until I had one and took it apart, fixed it and drove it. Other cars just dont compare. Now, show me more garage pics! I need to 'borrow' some ideas for my garage. I have some ideas but its hard to picture them on blank walls. I want a ferrari theme. I want to stencil some prancing horses into a yellow stripe around 5 feet off the floor but cant decide on red for the rest or some other color that goes with it, like yellow maybe. | |||
| TomD (Tifosi)
Intermediate Member Username: Tifosi Post Number: 1081 Registered: 9-2001 |
The interesting thing here is Ed is a auto tech and does all his own work on his 308 including designing replacement parts so working on them while maybe a hasle is not overly expensive in $ terms | |||
| Frank Parker (Parkerfe)
Intermediate Member Username: Parkerfe Post Number: 1106 Registered: 9-2001 |
Horsefly, you're right that Ferraris are expensive to own. But, until you own one you will never understand why us owners are willing to spend the big bucks to keep them running well. They are not the fastest, most reliable, nor even the best handling. But, there is something about them that makes you want to own and keep them. They turn a drive down to the store into an experience. Try it, I'll bet you'll like it too. | |||
| Horsefly (Arlie)
Junior Member Username: Arlie Post Number: 82 Registered: 5-2002 |
I think some of the responses to my previous posting were somewhat skewed. I will agree that a 20 year old Ferrari is a better collector car than a 1968 to C-4 Corvette. But Ed was not suggesting selling his 308 for a 20 year old Vette. He suggesting selling his 308 to help pay for a NEW Corvette with the latest technology, which, in his own words, is in a different league from the old 308. If someone had $25,000 to spend on a peformance sportscar with minimal hassle, which would be a better deal; an older 308 with its associated maintenance needs (which everyone seems to think will quickly ad $10,000 to the price tag), or simply put that money down on a like new C-5 Corvette and drive away hassle free? I will admit that I do not know the reliability record of these newer Vettes, but it sure must be nice to be able to drive to any dealership when you need a part. Another thing, why does everyone extole the great virtues of expensive Ferraris, but then whine like a baby and look for a bargain when it comes time to cough up the expensive Ferrari maintenance money? $300 distributor caps and $800 turn signal levers? Jeezzzzzz! I'm a car buff but some of those prices sound like first class fleecing at its finest. | |||
| bruce wellington (Bws88tr)
Member Username: Bws88tr Post Number: 550 Registered: 4-2002 |
yea real scary todd, and im sure our wifes share in the mutual answers towards our toys.. bruce | |||
| Todd Gieger (Todd328gts)
New member Username: Todd328gts Post Number: 34 Registered: 6-2002 |
Our similarities are scary, huh Bruce? | |||
| bruce wellington (Bws88tr)
Member Username: Bws88tr Post Number: 548 Registered: 4-2002 |
todd, me too, before i got my 88 tr i had to sell my 88 callaway( i loved that beast) then sold my 96 show car( greenwoods package,borla exhausts, triple chromed wheels, k/n ••••, lingenfelter stuff, etc) no regrets..love my testarossa... bruce | |||
| Todd Gieger (Todd328gts)
New member Username: Todd328gts Post Number: 32 Registered: 6-2002 |
What a coincidence...Man, do I feel good! The car I was about to buy, just before my recent 328 purchase, was a 69 vette (427/435hp, 4 speed, tri-power). Sometimes you wonder when you make a purchase, what the other car would have been like or if you made the right decision in the end. Knock on wood...There is NO question in my mind that I made the right decision. My 328 is so SOLID it almost doesn't seem real and I don't even care about the other car anymore because I am so pleased. | |||
| ELI (Titanium360)
Junior Member Username: Titanium360 Post Number: 76 Registered: 4-2002 |
Has anyone tried the MOTORMATS products? | |||
| Martin (Miami348ts)
Intermediate Member Username: Miami348ts Post Number: 2446 Registered: 5-2001 |
And Chris is right on again. I owned a 1973 Corvette at one point and thing was losing parts while driving on the street. These Corvettes are the most cheap made cars. They lack complete power in high speeds. A Corvette to me is a cheap, disgusting looking "wanne-be". The interior is made entirely out of �plastic even the "leather" seats look like plastic. It is a red-neck answer to their pick-up trucks. The down, you can not install a gunrack in the rear window. Edward, sad day when you will sell the 308. I have a feeling though you will be back, once infected with Hepartitis F you will never be able to go without. Arlie, the reason we talk about the belts and pumps and tensioners etc. is because you change these as "preventive" maintenance. Just like an airplane. Things like the belts failing will cause your engine to blow. At Ferrari a $20,000 repair. In a Corvette a mere $3,000 drop a new engine in. THAT is the difference between the cars. THAT also makes the passion of Ferrari! | |||
| Cmparrf40 (Cmparrf40)
Member Username: Cmparrf40 Post Number: 347 Registered: 3-2002 |
Arlie, as a past Corvette owner I think the primary difference is that a 20 year old 308 is still worth fixing. Most 20 year old Corvettes are just a worn out old cars. I seriously doubt a most 20 year old Corvettes are still on thier origional engine or transmission, the interior is probably shot and the car has more rattles than Babies R Us. My experience has been Ferrari's are extremely reliable. The maintenance you mention is just that, maintenance. Ed is a good person and I understand his decision to own a C5, it is a great car for the money, and on paper it is superior to a 308. However, a 20 year old 308 is superior to a 20 year old 'vette just like a 360 is superior to a C5. Arlie, I understand your comments, but I would rather drive a 1980 308 than a 1980 Corvette (I owned an '80 'vette, an L82, last year for an L82, it was falling apart in 1981 when I sold it with 16,000 miles) Ed is a Chevy guy, his shop specializes in GM products, a 'vette is a good choice for him. I hope he stays on the board, but that will be his choice. Chris | |||
| John A. Suarez (Futureowner)
Junior Member Username: Futureowner Post Number: 88 Registered: 3-2002 |
Horsefly, It is a little thing that some call "passion". Then again, all of this is 100% subjective | |||
| Patrick (Patrickr)
New member Username: Patrickr Post Number: 38 Registered: 4-2002 |
Tim, Garage sounds like it will be killer... can't wait for the pics! Thanks for the ideas Ed, Is that a 50th? Looks beautiful! Patrick | |||
| Horsefly (Arlie)
Junior Member Username: Arlie Post Number: 81 Registered: 5-2002 |
Ed, are you daring to suggest, that all things considered, the C-5 Vette is a better deal than an older 308 Ferrari? I have been browsing the Ferrarichat for a while now, and I am primarily a Corvette buff, but have always liked the 308 Ferrari. Unfortunately, after digesting all the various postings on this board, it would seem that most Ferrari owners spend all their time and money doing timing belt replacements to avoid total engine disaster. If it's not timing belts, it's belt tensioners or water pumps or cylinder heads, etc. I would hope that alot of these Ferrari owners are doing the work themselves. If not, who would want to own any Ferrari that is in constant need of multi-thousand dollar repairs, updates, servicing, etc. While all that may indeed be the nature of the beast, would the same need of servicing be tolerated by anyone shopping for a TV set, a toaster, a lawn mower, or anything else for that matter? It would seem to me that owning a performance collector car should be enjoyable, not a constant ordeal requiring continuous outpourings of buckets of cash. Any comments Ed? (I rode in a red 2002 Vette convertible a few months ago, and it sure was nice!) | |||
| Frank Parker (Parkerfe)
Intermediate Member Username: Parkerfe Post Number: 1101 Registered: 9-2001 |
If you don't etch the floor with acid first, the new paint will only stick as well as the paint you're painting on top of did. | |||
| BobD (Bobd)
Member Username: Bobd Post Number: 523 Registered: 3-2001 |
Ed, hang on the the 308 and wait a couple yrs for the new C6. http://www.vette-net.com/news.asp?article=RT2005Preview | |||
| William Badurski (Billb)
Junior Member Username: Billb Post Number: 62 Registered: 6-2001 |
The new Rustoleum floor paint was mentioned in this thread. Has anyone tried this stuff yet? I've painted my floor twice, both times with two-part epoxy paint. The common problem seems to be paint lifting due to the heat from a car's tires. Apparently parking a hot/warm tire on a painted floor causes the paint to soften and then adhere to the tires. My last paint job was done with a commercial warehouse floor material. I'd seen it hold up to fork lift traffic fine, but it stuck to the tires as well. | |||
| Edward Gault (Irfgt)
Intermediate Member Username: Irfgt Post Number: 1593 Registered: 2-2001 |
As of now the new car is in addition to as I traded my Impala SS for the Vette. I am afraid that the Ferrari will have to go. I simply cannot justify two Sports Cars. The Older 308, while a very nice car, simply is not in the League of a C-5 Corvette. | |||
| Jason Fraser (Jfraser)
Junior Member Username: Jfraser Post Number: 125 Registered: 3-2001 |
Tim, will you post some pics as the work progresses... | |||
| Tim Gendreau (Tim)
Junior Member Username: Tim Post Number: 148 Registered: 3-2002 |
Awesome car Edward. congratulations!! | |||
| Tim Gendreau (Tim)
Junior Member Username: Tim Post Number: 147 Registered: 3-2002 |
thanks Jason. most of the coach's are really really nice. Travertine marble floors, granite counters, marble counters in bathroom and bedroom dressers, electronics out the yingyang, etc. the best is yet to come. I have an Frieghtliner Argosy truck coming, its a flat nose style (cabover) electric entry steps that swing out of the cab for entry. I think it is going to look very european, kinda like a Ferrari transport but in coach form. the interior is going to be really wild, wild as in very classy. custom made furniture, marble, granite, carved cabinetry, custom lighting, etc. this one is going to be for me for a little while at least and I want to kinda take the next jump in super luxury, blow your mind nice coachs. so the best is yet to come. | |||
| Jim E (Jimpo1)
Member Username: Jimpo1 Post Number: 570 Registered: 7-2001 |
Ed, I hope that car is "in addition to" the collection and not replacing something else. | |||
| Edward Gault (Irfgt)
Intermediate Member Username: Irfgt Post Number: 1592 Registered: 2-2001 |
I just improved my garage with this  | |||
| Jason Fraser (Jfraser)
Junior Member Username: Jfraser Post Number: 123 Registered: 3-2001 |
Tim, Just looked at your website....Looks like a fun business.....What's the most outrageous custom coach you've manufactured.....The possiblilties for customization seem almost limitless... | |||
| Martin (Miami348ts)
Intermediate Member Username: Miami348ts Post Number: 2441 Registered: 5-2001 |
Tim, I want to move into your garage. Who needs ahouse when you have all of that? ...ah yes, the wife...  | |||
| Tim Gendreau (Tim)
Junior Member Username: Tim Post Number: 145 Registered: 3-2002 |
thanks for the plug there Bill. I have my floor painted with epoxy. my painter did it for $1.00 per foot installed, and gaurantees it. available in as many colors as you can imagine. I also installed the floor tiles that I sell. they are $2.50 per foot, $2.25 for F-chat friends, thats my cost. avail. in 8 colors. just finished building the garage, holds 18 cars on the 1st floor. no, no second floor yet! but I have 18' ceiling height so if I need more space, structurally I am all ready for it. also have a three car size attached workshop so the garage is all garage and cars dont get dirty when you are working in the workshop. I am busy having red cabinets built with yellow work benches. installing 2 leather couchs, projector and 10' screen on the wall full surround sound, stereo system, cooler, bathroom, washer dryer for dirty rags, 4 sinks in various locations, 2nd floor 20'x20' parts storage area, 2 fridges, 3 TV's...thats all I can think of now. I just retired and closed several business so I have lots of extra furniture, TV's etc. I'm going to spend the rest of my time on my cars and my garage. I post pics in about 6 months when its complete. | |||
| Bill Sawyer (Wsawyer)
Member Username: Wsawyer Post Number: 351 Registered: 2-2002 |
Century Custom Coach--one of our sponsors--sells flooring tiles on their website. | |||
| Ben Cannon (Artherd)
New member Username: Artherd Post Number: 24 Registered: 6-2002 |
Intresting, how does this compare to a 100% solids type floor? (wash with TSP, rinse, dry, apply sealer w/sand, apply grey expoxy. Involved, but holds up pretty well. Will chip if you drop a tool.) Only downside to the 100% solids expozy is THE PRICE. It was over $500 for just 5gallons ea of sealer and epoxy (enough to do our modest 2-car garage.) In a few years I plan on building a 10-car garage, don't have that kind of money though :P) Best! Ben. | |||
| S. P. (512tr1994)
New member Username: 512tr1994 Post Number: 6 Registered: 6-2002 |
If you are looking for garage floor coatings... take a look at: http://www.armorpoxy.com/html/about.htm They have a "1-step" (no prep or concrete ecthing) ARMOR-EPOXY GARAGE FLOOR PAINT.. The thing that I have noticed with most garage floor coatings are that they are plain "gray" or "tan" color...not much variety of colors... The site above has over 1000 colors, even "glossy" Ferrari Red....That's what puts them above the other brands...check them out. I have no affiliation... Also if you don't want to paint...take a look at: http://www.motormat.com/ They have garage floor coverings available in a varitey of colors. Hope this info is helpful. Take Care Everyone SP | |||
| Todd Gieger (Todd328gts)
New member Username: Todd328gts Post Number: 31 Registered: 6-2002 |
This is what it looks like...only much bigger | |||
| Todd Gieger (Todd328gts)
New member Username: Todd328gts Post Number: 30 Registered: 6-2002 |
Thanks Skip...but I preferred the larger 81" x 57" at https://silenus.safe-order.net/fciparts/p378.html Regards, TTG | |||
| Martin (Miami348ts)
Intermediate Member Username: Miami348ts Post Number: 2429 Registered: 5-2001 |
what size? | |||
| Skip VanDenBerg (Skipgt4)
New member Username: Skipgt4 Post Number: 20 Registered: 6-2001 |
Sorry in advance for the shameless self-promotion, but I can help you out with the one of the flags. My company, Flying Dutchman Flag Co, works with auto dealers on promotional flags and banners. I have the yellow flag with the black logo in stock. They are made of heavy weight nylon with two brass grommets for attachment. Price is $30 and I will pay the shipping. We also have flags for most other brands if you are interested. If you would like a flag or more info e-mail me at [email protected] | |||
| Martin (Miami348ts)
Intermediate Member Username: Miami348ts Post Number: 2426 Registered: 5-2001 |
BTW I sold the house and put a Deed-Restriction that only a Ferrari may be parked ever on the garage floor! | |||
| Martin (Miami348ts)
Intermediate Member Username: Miami348ts Post Number: 2425 Registered: 5-2001 |
When you have nothing to do, like me, have no real life and no friend, like me, you sit on your garage floor and smash tiles and then place then Enzo-style.  | |||
| TomD (Tifosi)
Intermediate Member Username: Tifosi Post Number: 1061 Registered: 9-2001 |
here is the link to the previous thread http://server.ferrarichat.com/~ferrari/ferrarichat.com/discus/messages/21/8415.html | |||
| Daren L Adkins (Schumi)
New member Username: Schumi Post Number: 23 Registered: 6-2002 |
For a good example of a Ferrari garage ask Chris Parr to post some pics of his. | |||
| Jeff Edison (Euro308guy)
New member Username: Euro308guy Post Number: 5 Registered: 7-2002 |
If you do an eBay search for Ferrari Flag, normally you can find a few. That's how I got mine. | |||
| Mr. Doody (Doody)
Member Username: Doody Post Number: 308 Registered: 11-2001 |
fyi - ferrarimerchandiseshop.com appears to be gone due to the licnensing changes that ferrari put into place earlier this year. doody. | |||
| Bill Sawyer (Wsawyer)
Member Username: Wsawyer Post Number: 347 Registered: 2-2002 |
Art: Rustoleum has a new garage floor paint. They've been advertising it in Car & Driver and other magazines. It's a one step process. Griot's Garage has a two-step paint that requires etching the concrete. I haven't painted my floor, but my brother-in-law did. He didn't use either of the above products and the floor came out rather slick, causing it to be very slippery when wet. I think the remedy is mixing a bit of sand with the paint to give it traction. Better off using a commercial brand. | |||
| Eric Vartanian (Evartanian)
New member Username: Evartanian Post Number: 23 Registered: 3-2002 |
AHA, of course...Ferrari flags. Off the top of my head I can think of a few places: ferrarimerchandiseshop.com , italiancarparts, and perhaps even ferrari.com I think all have flags. Big red ones with Scuderia Shields, Black and white checkered flags with Il Cavallino, and maybe few others I've seen like a black horse on a yellow flag. The smaller sizes are about 30 bucks (but are by no means small, the larger ones could probably almost cover a car) I am sure you can probably use search engines to find some other sources if you please. Thought I'd also add to the garage discussion. I remember in Dupont Registry I once saw an add for some custom garage tiles...like B&W checkered, textured steel or aluminum look, yellow/black checkered, and I thought it was pretty cool. If anyone is interested, just mention it and I'll look for the add (I know I have it, just not immediately accessible.) | |||
| Todd Gieger (Todd328gts)
New member Username: Todd328gts Post Number: 28 Registered: 6-2002 |
I just had a car lift put in my garage yesterday. I have a two car garage with 118 inch ceilings, less the 11 1/2 inch center beam, gave me 106 1/2 inches to work with. First, I had the floors painted with what the painter recommended, then I put down I my side of the garage a rectangular area rug that my lady got sick of Second, I had a garage door company come in and replace the builder's standard doors with insulated aluminum doors while extending the one garage door's tracks as close to the ceiling as possible. Next I had an electrician come in and put in 4 sets of 8 foot flourescent lights (I still laugh at how bright it is...especially at night...the whole friggin' block is lit up!) Lastly, I had www.superlifts.com spec out the exact lift I needed to fit my 328 on top of my 740iL. The installer came yesterday and it fits perfectly with the top on the GTS. It fits with plenty of room when the center beam splits the 328 roof without the top on...Really Slick, especially the diamond plated dress up kit/ramps You are more than welcome to call me at 973.884.9161 if you have questions...I hate typing this much. All I need now is a BIG Ferrari Banner/Flag...where do you get these? Todd | |||
| arthur chambers (Art355)
Member Username: Art355 Post Number: 534 Registered: 6-2001 |
The more I see this, the more I think it is going to cost me money. I have a small garage (2 car0 but a reasonably large hanger. My wife is making me put the Ferrari in the Hanger, and I'm thinking about fixing the hanger up in a Ferrari motif. What's the brand for the new floor paint? Art | |||
| ARIE BONSELAAR (Arie)
New member Username: Arie Post Number: 9 Registered: 5-2001 |
ANY IDEAS ON STACKING OR STORING VEHICLES ON OVERHEAD LIFTS IN A GARAGE? ARIE | |||
| Horsefly (Arlie)
Junior Member Username: Arlie Post Number: 68 Registered: 5-2002 |
If someone had an entire room decorated with photos of Pamela Anderson, they would be considered a psycho stalker. But an entire room decorated with Ferrari "stuff" is acceptable????? The jury is still out. | |||
| Jeff Edison (Euro308guy)
New member Username: Euro308guy Post Number: 4 Registered: 7-2002 |
Garages are great fun! I finished mine last winter and often I drink my second cup of coffee in the morning in mine next to my 308. Here's a link that might help you get a few ideas. Click on it and select Shrines. http://ferrari_owners.tripod.com/index.htm Mine is Shrine #2. Best if luck and keep us posted! Jeff  | |||
| Bill Steele (Glassman)
Junior Member Username: Glassman Post Number: 52 Registered: 4-2002 |
The first thing you need to do is dig a six foot deep pit with poured concrete walls, and a ladder or steps. Boy, that has got to be the greatest thing about my garage. Then you can actually walk around under your Ferrari! | |||
| BobD (Bobd)
Member Username: Bobd Post Number: 512 Registered: 3-2001 |
Better make that oil-proof carpet. :-) | |||
| Mark Izzo (Tdf355)
Junior Member Username: Tdf355 Post Number: 64 Registered: 3-2002 |
Carpet the area of the garage where the car will sit if you have enough room to work on it in another area. You garage will become your favorite "room" | |||
| Greg Owens (Owens84qv)
Member Username: Owens84qv Post Number: 484 Registered: 10-2001 |
There was another thread out here on this same topic. Search on "garage" and you are sure to find it... | |||
| Ron Thomas (Ronsupercar)
Junior Member Username: Ronsupercar Post Number: 190 Registered: 5-2002 |
One thing that i plan to do to prep my garage for day I can park the Ferrari in it is Paint the entire floor.. There is a new sealer for garage floors that you apply ilke paint that prevents oil stains on the floor and the good thing is that you get a choice of colors. The next step is to paint a large prancing horse with a yellow background on the wall where the Ferrari will be parked..I have a 3-car garage so it will stand out which car will go where.. I eventually will install glass show cases to display the models and collectables I've purchased though the years. That's the plan... | |||
| Paul Newman (Newman)
Member Username: Newman Post Number: 270 Registered: 12-2001 |
I know this has been brought up in the past by myself and others, sorry but I cant find what Im looking for in the archives. I finally have the time to paint the garage now that the car is mobile and I wanted some ideas on decorating if you will. Im looking for a ferrari theme of course. I would like to see some of your ideas to get me going in the right dirrection. Thanks in advance. |
flag.doc