| Author | Message | ||
| Racer 001 (Mr_0011)
Junior Member Username: Mr_0011 Post Number: 58 Registered: 3-2002 |
"Racer, did you say Corvette owners like to feel testicles? Never mind." -Jack No. | ||
| Jack (Gilles27)
Member Username: Gilles27 Post Number: 392 Registered: 3-2002 |
Racer, did you say Corvette owners like to feel testicles? Never mind. Toby, I bought my 328 two months ago and love it. I think when it comes down to buying a car in this category, deep down you probably know already what you want. Face it, you'll have fun driving all the cars listed here. But which one really makes your heart go boom? | ||
| Martin (Miami348ts)
Intermediate Member Username: Miami348ts Post Number: 2209 Registered: 5-2001 |
At least you should be looking at a 328, which is somewhat more refined than a 308 and yet affordable. I have a consignment car for $ 45,000 asking, 1987 with 22K Miles. Super nice car. | ||
| Martin (Miami348ts)
Intermediate Member Username: Miami348ts Post Number: 2208 Registered: 5-2001 |
and you believe the older V12s are less money than a 348 or TR ? I calculated my maintenance cost over the past 2 years and with the 7,000 Miles I drive per year in the F, I came to $2,000 per year in maintenance. Since my 30K I had nothing on my car, except an oil change ($100) and now on the last track event new brake fluid and resurface the clutch with carbon fibre, which is another $1,000 So my total may be $ 2,500 per year on average. | ||
| Toby T (Tobyt)
New member Username: Tobyt Post Number: 38 Registered: 3-2002 |
Well...thank you all for the information. Zo6 is out...BORING. (I have a ZR1 for sale right now) I want the Passion of Ferrari. I collect rare Ferrari items and I want a car too add to my colection. I am a HUGE Ferrari Race fan also. Going to the factory is on my must do list. I think my choices will be a clean 308QV or if I can locate another 330GT (not a 330GTC) or a 250 GTE I will be happy. I am shy on TR's and 348's due to the dollars required to keep it up vs maybe a 308 or 330. I do want an older V12 BAD. My other choices other than Ferrari are a 427 Cobra Kit or a Viper GTS. My passion is with Ferrari but I do like those other cars too. | ||
| Lawrence Coppari (Lawrence)
New member Username: Lawrence Post Number: 47 Registered: 4-2002 |
A 328 is a nice choice. I have an '87 and have thoroughly enjoyed it for the 15 years I have owned it. But let me suggest two others. Mercedes Benz SLK32 AMG - very fast and reliable with good gas mileage. We have 6K on ours now and it gets in the mid 20's. Maintenance is zilch. It has the advantage of being both a hartop and open car with the push of a button. I hesitate to even mention this one but here goes anyway. I have a steroidal 944turbo. These cars have excellent balance, make excellent track cars, can be modified to make well over 400HP ($$) and weigh 3000 pounds. And since they are Porsche's step child, they are cheap. A good one costs about 15K and for 6K more, you've got 400 reliable and controllable HP. But it is a 4 cylinder engine and sounds like a big vacuum cleaner. I get 30+ mpg on highway. Very few cars are faster. | ||
| Racer 001 (Mr_0011)
Junior Member Username: Mr_0011 Post Number: 55 Registered: 3-2002 |
The Corvette is a marvel of engineering. You can drive it everyday and it will out last a Ferrari that's driven here and there. Owens- The ZO6 isn't all performance... it's built well to. How can you justify "crappy interiors?" I agree the materials could be better, but it's not crappy. The interior itself is far from "crappy," it's very good. It's just the materials and the way some things are set up. And most Corvette owners like the tacticle feel inside that you cna find in other cars. That and it'll hang with a 360 and 575M... ...and that HUD it's pretty sweet too... :p ;) | ||
| Greg Owens (Owens84qv)
Member Username: Owens84qv Post Number: 422 Registered: 10-2001 |
I was thinking the same thing that Jim E. mentioned...a 328. That was the first car that popped into my head. A Z06 may beat the 328 in raw performance, but that is the only aspect of the Z06 that bests the 328. In terms of visual, sound, feel, and all the other senses that inspire us to be drawn to sports cars and Ferrari's specifically, the Z06 is a distant second...and yes, Tim, the Z06 and Corvette's in general have crappy interiors and fit-n-finish. | ||
| Dave L (Davel)
Junior Member Username: Davel Post Number: 156 Registered: 7-2001 |
Actually Antony has a good point: 308GT4! That car has nice road manners, the nice sounds, and the extra room we can use at times. Its also unique and a good one can be had for 20-25k! | ||
| Martin (Miami348ts)
Intermediate Member Username: Miami348ts Post Number: 2172 Registered: 5-2001 |
...tears in my eyes | ||
| Martin (Miami348ts)
Intermediate Member Username: Miami348ts Post Number: 2171 Registered: 5-2001 |
Damn, Rob, you convinced me  | ||
| Rob Lay (Rob328gts)
Board Administrator Username: Rob328gts Post Number: 1707 Registered: 12-2000 |
I think the question needs to be reworded to what Ferrari should I buy for +/- $50k. Performance wise, most Ferraris won't beat a Z06, but we're all "in the know" on here and they aren't. ;) To find out what "in the know" is, please do the following... 1) Buy a Ferrari. 2) Drive it as hard as you can (safely). 3) Take your wife/girlfriend out to a nice dinner in it. 4) Go to a concours and track event with other Ferraris. 5) Go to a F1 race and read about Ferraris history in racing. 6) Make a pilgrimage to Maranello. 7) After all of that in good light wipe your car down until it looks mint while enjoying the curves and smells. Now tell me what car you want. | ||
| Ernie Bonilla (Ernie)
Member Username: Ernie Post Number: 297 Registered: 11-2001 |
The most bang for your buck is a TR! The up keep is only just a bit higher than that of the 348. Had I know at the time I could have gotten a TR for only a few thousand more than what I paid for my 348 I would have gotten one. A lot more car for the money. They are fast, and even though my 348 sounds great at speed, you just can't beat the sound of a 12 cylinder Farrari at full song. My vote is for a nice TR. | ||
| Antony R Chapman (Antonio888)
New member Username: Antonio888 Post Number: 7 Registered: 5-2002 |
I'd recommend a 308 carb. I settled on this as my first entry into owning a Ferrari. This was based on reading a wide range of write ups and discussions with Ferrari owners of which the 308 came out generally the best for overall maintenance, cost. However at the end of the day I personally liked the 308 for its shape - just pure art to me and its growl. Bottom line is go with your heart (but make sure the bucks add up!) A 308 GT4 is also a nice car. | ||
| Racer 001 (Mr_0011)
Junior Member Username: Mr_0011 Post Number: 52 Registered: 3-2002 |
I would get a Corvette ZO6 without a doubt... just my 2 cents... a TR would be sweeter than honey... | ||
| SteveF (Stevef)
New member Username: Stevef Post Number: 40 Registered: 12-2001 |
the comfy ride of the z06 is exactly what's so impressive about it considering it's ability to corner flat and pull 1G. there are plenty of cars out there that are far less performant but have a ride that'll send grandma's dentures skittering across the dash. but if you're looking for the intangibles only found in a ferrari, you won't be happy with something else. | ||
| Robert McNair (Rrm)
Junior Member Username: Rrm Post Number: 55 Registered: 5-2002 |
Robert I have been watching the progress of that car on ebay it dosen't look too bad maybe some clean up specifacally the engine bay. Do you still find yourself looking even though you just got one,I know I probably would. | ||
| Erin Patrick Pierce (Fulmina)
New member Username: Fulmina Post Number: 11 Registered: 3-2002 |
I test drove a Z06 a couple of weeks ago and was a bit disappointed. Sure, it has loads of torque and is very fast... a completely respectable sports car all around that is worthy of being run on the track, but I wouldn't put it in the same ballpark as a 20 year old Ferrari for a weekend driver. Here are my thoughts: The Z06 had very comfy suspension that rode over the bumps in the road like a new caddy. The area between the seats was far to high and the shifter too short (and my arm too long) for there to be a positive, comfortable throw of the shifter. Also, the sound coming from the road and rear-end seeping into the cabin was louder than the engine and was a little distracting from my desired "HOLD ON TO YOUR BRITCHES" state of mind. For these and other sins I sentence the Z06 to deprecete quickly under someone elses garage. Don't get me wrong, it is a very nice car-- It just doesn't compare to the overall feel of a well cared for QV or 348. | ||
| BobD (Bobd)
Member Username: Bobd Post Number: 454 Registered: 3-2001 |
I have to agree with Dave L... Jim E too. | ||
| Tim N (Timn88)
Intermediate Member Username: Timn88 Post Number: 1041 Registered: 6-2001 |
I agree, test drive a Z06 and see if you like it. They may have crappy interiors (ive never been in one) but from what ive heard they are a blast to drive and have tons of torque. | ||
| Kenny Herman (Kennyh)
Member Username: Kennyh Post Number: 278 Registered: 8-2001 |
I have to go with Jude... If you are going to spend 50k, and your not getting a 348, I would get a ZO6, do you want a classic car? | ||
| Andrew Menasce (Amenasce)
Junior Member Username: Amenasce Post Number: 96 Registered: 10-2001 |
A 308 Carbs or a 328 GTB . Although if you can find a 365 GTC4 then that would bemy pick . Daytona engine . Amazing look and amazing sound . | ||
| Robert Jude Klein (Rjklein4470)
Junior Member Username: Rjklein4470 Post Number: 108 Registered: 3-2002 |
50k I would be getting a ZO6, after hearing all the comments I went out and drove one, WOW they are very nice cars. Or a friend of mine bought a Boxster, and put a crate 996 engine in it, Now that is a missle. | ||
| Dave L (Davel)
Junior Member Username: Davel Post Number: 154 Registered: 7-2001 |
328 is the most obvious choice for the money. Modern but with a hint of 3 series heritage and probably the most reliable one made for the money. Id say its the best overall buy out there. | ||
| Jim E (Jimpo1)
Member Username: Jimpo1 Post Number: 487 Registered: 7-2001 |
I'm a little surprised more 328 people haven't piped up in here. You can easily get a clean 328 for less than $50k, and have enough money left over to get the 30k service done on your own, plus any other bugs you need to work out. I've had my car less than a year, and have much less than $50k in it. It had 38k miles when I bought it and I've done the 30k, new water pump, new AC, and a starter rebuild. Maybe I should sell Toby my car and buy Martins 348.... | ||
| ross koller (Ross)
Junior Member Username: Ross Post Number: 106 Registered: 3-2002 |
martin, just checked out your website and car. looks very nice and is surprisingly good value. toby, i would color code the lower valance and the targa top and go for it. i had a 92 348 ts as my first ferrari and although they have their hiccups, it will probably be a more enjoyable introduction to the marque since it actually is pretty fast as well. | ||
| Martin (Miami348ts)
Intermediate Member Username: Miami348ts Post Number: 2160 Registered: 5-2001 |
For a little less than $ 50,000 I have a 348TS , 1991, has a new clutch and just getting the full engine out 30K service done. A modern car with the classic TR looks and full AC. call me if you are interested. (305) 867-7676 Martin www.4Ferrari.com | ||
| Robert Rothschild (Rothschild)
New member Username: Rothschild Post Number: 8 Registered: 6-2002 |
There's a guy in Palo Alto trying to unload a 1951 250GT California (I'm assuming that he meant 1961 since the first year of production was 1957), restored with loving care over ten years by his father.... He didn't list an asking price, only that craigslist wouldn't allow a price beyond 5 digits...think he'd be willing to take $30k for it? of course if anyone out there has the $1.2M+ that this one's worth...drop him a line at [email protected]. Toby, the 330GTC is a beautiful creation, but the one near me is priced out at $95,000. I second every comment made prior to this one regarding the 85 308QV, I spent a long time researching before taking the plunge and every buyers guide, article and posting I could find pointed to one year and model that represented the best value, most reliable, classic appearance. Even the guy at Ferrari of San Francisco told me that if there was one car to buy, this is the one. Just my personal opinion but I doubt that you'd be disappointed. Good luck and hope you find yours soon, FYI...there's a nice one on ebay right now running at about $32k if that's of interest to you. http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=1834711876 | ||
| Michael N. (Man90tr)
Member Username: Man90tr Post Number: 531 Registered: 4-2001 |
Don't be fooled by TR prices. Rob is correct -- low price and you will spend 10K the first year. Yeah, medium to high price and you will probably end up spending 5K the first year also. Great car for the price, but unless you do the work yourself like Steve, Ben and Arnaldo you can easily drop big bucks sorting the car out. Be careful.. I got lucky in that I spent 2K on maintenance items in the first 18 months driving like a madman. The car ran great, but look at this site and there are examples of just the reverse -- low miles lots of maintenance. My recommendation -- get a car without the 30K and have it done yourself by your mechanic!!! Dealers can be excellent too, but you will pay a higher price for the same thing. | ||
| Bill Steele (Glassman)
New member Username: Glassman Post Number: 27 Registered: 4-2002 |
Toby, A 330GT or America won't be happening for $50,000. A good 250GTE will be happening for $50,000. If you want an older car, don't compromise, save if you have to, and you will be way happier. | ||
| Eric Eiland (Eric308gtsiqv)
Member Username: Eric308gtsiqv Post Number: 295 Registered: 11-2001 |
Toby, I'm with Robert on this one -- a well sorted out 308 QV with books / records would be a fine purchase, and will leave you plenty of change to spare for all the "toys" to go with it, including a 30k service. A Testarossa is on my "to buy" list, but plan on waiting until I can afford a very good condition one, which seems to be going for $65k and up at present. There is a nice red/tan 85 TR for around $59.9k at Ferrarinetwork (http://www.ferrarinetwork.com/dispinv.phtml?offset=18&qty=6&category=Pre-owned+Ferrari). It has been for sale for quite some time now -- not sure why it hasn't sold yet, other than it apparently needs a 30k service (??). | ||
| Robert McNair (Rrm)
New member Username: Rrm Post Number: 46 Registered: 5-2002 |
Toby your best bet under 50k would be an 85 308qv. Most likely any TR you find under 50k will not be sorted out also any older V12 will cost more for upkeep. you should be able to get a good straight 85QV in the 35-40k range.1985 was the last year for the 308 and had an updated emission system as did 84 which did without an air pump and also an updated waterpump. The 328 can be good too but it would be wise to have a bit of a reserve left over in case something comes up. Best of luck. | ||
| Daren L Adkins (Schumi)
New member Username: Schumi Post Number: 6 Registered: 6-2002 |
I have a 400i GT(5-speed) that I paid alot less than $50k for and I love it. I put a new stainless exhuast on it and it sounds and runs great. The 365-412 series are cars that need to be seen in person to appreciate. Photos do not flatter them. | ||
| bruno bandaras (Originalsinner)
New member Username: Originalsinner Post Number: 46 Registered: 5-2002 |
I work on my carb cars but a TR would need some dealer time for sure. | ||
| Toby T (Tobyt)
New member Username: Tobyt Post Number: 37 Registered: 3-2002 |
i hear that too...the 365's are nice. but what about the looks? I have never seen one in real life..only pics..so its hard to tell. I hear they sound real nice too. on the TR...I would think keeping the beast up kinda scares me...what I do not want is a Ferrari that loves to visit the dealer all the time just to keep it running. I can do much of the work myself but for the more advanced stuff...I would leave it to a trained Ferrari guy. | ||
| Frank Parker (Parkerfe)
Member Username: Parkerfe Post Number: 944 Registered: 9-2001 |
A 365GTC4 can be found in that price range and they are great cars. | ||
| bruno bandaras (Originalsinner)
New member Username: Originalsinner Post Number: 44 Registered: 5-2002 |
1987 Testarossa. This gorgeous black beast with tan leather has only traveled 26,000 miles with the 30,000 service just completed, it features new Goodyear Eagle tires, Nakamichi CD player with remote and front and rear radar. Own one of the first true supercars for only $59,500. Chequered Flag International - click for listing and dealer info | ||
| Rob Lay (Rob328gts)
Board Administrator Username: Rob328gts Post Number: 1694 Registered: 12-2000 |
55-60 gets you a TR, 80% chance you'll spend $10k on it your first year though. | ||
| bruno bandaras (Originalsinner)
New member Username: Originalsinner Post Number: 42 Registered: 5-2002 |
There was one in Florida for sale I think the asking price was 56k. I do not know if it is still there. 60k for sure gets you a TR. | ||
| Toby T (Tobyt)
New member Username: Tobyt Post Number: 35 Registered: 3-2002 |
can you get a good TR at or around 50K? I thought a nice example was a lot higher? | ||
| bruno bandaras (Originalsinner)
New member Username: Originalsinner Post Number: 38 Registered: 5-2002 |
If I was getting a 308 I would get a clean fiberglass model '76. The most bang is a 12 cylinder Testarossa. They are out of favor with the purist right now but THEY WILL BE BACK.I am looking for one myself.JMO. | ||
| Vince (Manatee)
New member Username: Manatee Post Number: 20 Registered: 6-2002 |
'79 carb has the great sounds, but might be a bit troublesome in keeping in tune versus the later (QV) injected models. I personally would not be happy with the 2valve injected 308's, but that's just me. | ||
| Dave L (Davel)
Junior Member Username: Davel Post Number: 151 Registered: 7-2001 |
79 308 carb. That might fulfill your desires for vintage(somewhat), and coordinate well with your other Ferrari stuff. Good luck | ||
| Toby T (Tobyt)
New member Username: Tobyt Post Number: 34 Registered: 3-2002 |
I do enjoy the 308,328. What is the best overall 308 made? My heart has a weak spot for the olders ones though. I collect rare Ferrari items so a real vintage car in my garage would make me feel like a school boy getting his first bike. | ||
| Vince (Manatee)
New member Username: Manatee Post Number: 17 Registered: 6-2002 |
How about a nice 308QV? A nice reliable car with change back from your fifty large. | ||
| Rob Lay (Rob328gts)
Board Administrator Username: Rob328gts Post Number: 1687 Registered: 12-2000 |
308/328/348 if looking for a weekly reliable driver. Older 2+2 if wanting history. Maybe Testarosa if wanting most bang for your buck, just budget more for service. | ||
| Toby T (Tobyt)
New member Username: Tobyt Post Number: 33 Registered: 3-2002 |
I have been looking for a while to buy a weekend driver for under 50K. Any suggestions? I was thinking of a 330GT or a 250GTE or maybe a 330 America. Maybe a 308 or 328? Any thoughts? Thanks! |