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Jim E (Jimpo1)
Member
Username: Jimpo1

Post Number: 874
Registered: 7-2001
Posted on Saturday, October 26, 2002 - 1:22 pm:   

Don't shy away from the anti-lock equipped 328. I learned the hard way that it might be a nice thing to have when I hit a corner too hot and didn't have enough brakes. No damage, but nearly left a spot on the seat! The ABS would've helped tremendously.
BobD (Bobd)
Member
Username: Bobd

Post Number: 707
Registered: 3-2001
Posted on Friday, October 25, 2002 - 9:53 pm:   

Carl, regarding the guy with the '88, if it has ABS, it will have an ABS light on the dash (as you mentioned). Look for my picture (Bobd) on this link.... there are 6 lights across the top of the 328 dash (3 on either side). The one in the middle of the left side, "Anti Lock" is the ticket.
http://server.ferrarichat.com/~ferrari/ferrarichat.com/discus/messages/112/82654.html

For less money, you could own a 348.... but you'd have to put up with the cheese graters. :-) You've got good taste.... stick with the 328. It's incredibly reliable, much more economical to repair and has the classic F-car look. Good luck, let us know what you get. Email me if you have any questions... and post pics when you bring it home!!!
Carl Rose (Carl_rose)
New member
Username: Carl_rose

Post Number: 4
Registered: 10-2002
Posted on Friday, October 25, 2002 - 7:34 pm:   

Thanks once again. I think I have my heart set on a 328 because...that's what I wanted when I was 18y/o and hasn't really changed. Suspect I'll never drive this car near it's limit. Sortof leaning towards the concave wheels (up to early 1988) but not set in stone; I think individual car condition will determine purchase.

Just want to thank everyone also who has responded directly to me - I'll be happy to share anything we amass in composite with anyone needing more info on these cars.

:-) Carl
David Jones (Dave)
Member
Username: Dave

Post Number: 384
Registered: 4-2001
Posted on Thursday, October 24, 2002 - 6:32 pm:   

Carl, one thing to consider with the 328 besides the ABS brakes is that in 1988 1/2 they updated the suspension to what was to become the 348 suspension... So by going to a later model 328 you will be getting a better handling car.
Gene Agatep (Gagatep)
New member
Username: Gagatep

Post Number: 35
Registered: 8-2002
Posted on Thursday, October 24, 2002 - 4:25 pm:   

Carl,
If your budget is $60K after all is said and
done... I would earnestly suggest for you
to consider 348's.
I was in your same position 5 months ago.
I looked at 328's and ended up with a 348.
I've experienced 308's, mondials, and 328's
in the past 15 years. IMHO the 348 is a
great bang for the buck, which will cost you
$60K when your all done with it.
TomD (Tifosi)
Intermediate Member
Username: Tifosi

Post Number: 1556
Registered: 9-2001
Posted on Thursday, October 24, 2002 - 3:49 pm:   

it seems like a good asking price - off top of my head low to mid forties selling price
Carl Rose (Carl_rose)
New member
Username: Carl_rose

Post Number: 3
Registered: 10-2002
Posted on Thursday, October 24, 2002 - 3:42 pm:   

Thanks again everyone. I stopped by the Ferrari South dealer here in Jackson (only do minor service & parts these days) - found them online no longer listed in book - the were *extremely* nice & offerred to look over the service records of any car I am considering purchasing, as several folks on this board have been willing to do.
They advised *against* the very-low mileage cars in favor of a 15-25k car that had been regularly exercised for the same reasons some have posted here - drying seals, lack of maintenance. They also reccomended a major service every 5 years and taking this into account ($5-7k) when making an offer on a prospective vehicle. They also echoed the sentiments about the ABS servicing being a non-issue for the 1989 cars (they haven't had any problems). Now corret me if I'm wrong, but for the Teves system doesn't one require special tools to cycle the ABS valve when flushing? Is this the same Teves unit from GM vehicles?

I have turned up a 15k late 1988 around Philadelphia; major service done 2001 asking price is $53k. The owner sounds as though he takes excellent care of the car but couldn't tell me if it had ABS (did have convex wheels)...which is a bit concerning for an enthusiast (look at the dash lights? valve box under MC?) I emailed back asking about specific service records, if the hood has kink by support, etc. Assuming good condition (and non-ABS), is this a reasonable price?

Thanks everyone once again,
Carl
BobD (Bobd)
Member
Username: Bobd

Post Number: 705
Registered: 3-2001
Posted on Wednesday, October 23, 2002 - 7:50 pm:   

Carl, regarding the ABS brakes in later 328s, Ferrari did not manufacture these.... they were built by Teves and used in other cars. Just FYI, parts shouldn't be a major problem.
http://www.ferraribooks.com/inc/pdetail?v=1&pid=546

You'll really enjoy any 328... especially with your budget!
Tom Treue (Treue)
New member
Username: Treue

Post Number: 28
Registered: 4-2002
Posted on Wednesday, October 23, 2002 - 12:32 pm:   

Carl:
The likelihood that you will find "the car" at home is not zero but slim. Make up your mind that you will have to travel a distance to look at several candidates and then have to transport the winner to Jackson for $1000-1500 (covered transporter, don't use an open transporter).

I bought an 82 308 and a 67 330 2+2, knowing that there were service issues with both. I did all the work myself on the 308 and wound up with a decent car. Even with an honest seller and a thorough examination any car purchase will be somewhat problematic. I doubt the older Ferrari exists that won't require SOME service. You may want to pay less for a 328 with it in mind that the balance of your Ferrari budget will go for reconditioning a substantial part of the car. Be careful, you can find a relatively inexpensive cherry but also expensive junk.

A low mileage car can have its problems such as odometer rollback and low-useage maladies such as perished rubber parts including leaking seals. Nobody rolls an odometer FORWARD. Thorough, competent service IS more important that low mileage, but you would almost have to know the shop, personally, to be certain of the competent part. Forza and Road & Track Magazines did a buyer's guide on the 308; I don't know if either one did something similar on the 328. Any car would be subject to a long list of standard inspection items such as wreck history and oil consumption.

IMHO, Tom
Rob Lay (Rob328gts)
Board Administrator
Username: Rob328gts

Post Number: 2495
Registered: 12-2000
Posted on Wednesday, October 23, 2002 - 12:25 pm:   

BobD has a perfect low mileage '89 328 and his doesn't have very many miles. Out of the Dallas 328 club his has only had oil changes the past several years as Jim and I have dropped a few thousand dollars. I think the key to Bob's reliability is maybe that it was driven simi regularly, even if not for very many miles. I think the long term sitting is what kills them.
Giang Hoang (Spidersense)
New member
Username: Spidersense

Post Number: 5
Registered: 10-2002
Posted on Wednesday, October 23, 2002 - 12:16 pm:   

Carl,
Are you sure you want a low mileage car? I thought the reliability factor of the 328 is very dependent on it being driven regularly. I try to drive mine every week to keep things flowing. Talking to Ferrari mechanics is probably a good idea. One Ferrari Challenge technician told me a story about a 75 mile F40 that had been through 4 owners. It required replacement of everything from engine to brakes to gearbox because it wasn't driven.. ouch.

anyhow, make sure you get a pre-purchase inspection. Check for leaks in the steering rack, CV boot condition, and solid complete service records.

My 328 had 37K miles on it when I got it and I graphed out the complete service history on an excel spreadsheet to show the car didn't sit for extended periods of time. But since you are willing to replace so much on the car, I'm not sure this really matters.

Good luck !

James Giang Hoang
Jim Schad (Jim_schad)
Member
Username: Jim_schad

Post Number: 326
Registered: 7-2002
Posted on Wednesday, October 23, 2002 - 10:05 am:   

I just looked at 3 328's all 1987's with about 40k miles on them in great shape with services done. all will go for $42K. If you want less miles you will pay more of course. And as Rob said, the 89's are asking in the $50k's.
Mitchell Le (Yelcab1)
Member
Username: Yelcab1

Post Number: 439
Registered: 11-2001
Posted on Tuesday, October 22, 2002 - 10:15 pm:   

Wasn't there someone on this very list trying to sell his very nice 328 for ... $40K or thereabout? I am not in the market now, but if I were, I would be able to (and not willing to pay any more) get a very good sample with decent miles for $45K, tops.

Bought my GT4 last year and it is way too soon to convince the spousal unit that I need another one so soon. She does not want me to spend another six months in, under, and generally all over another Ferrari. I can't blame her. Come to think of it, my next F car will have 12 cylinders.
Jim E (Jimpo1)
Member
Username: Jimpo1

Post Number: 866
Registered: 7-2001
Posted on Tuesday, October 22, 2002 - 9:55 pm:   

I think even $50k is a little steep based on cars I've seen recently. $50k should buy you a near concours car. If you want a driver, $45 is probably closer to the mark.
TomD (Tifosi)
Intermediate Member
Username: Tifosi

Post Number: 1544
Registered: 9-2001
Posted on Tuesday, October 22, 2002 - 8:51 pm:   

out north of sparta on 15 right near the pa border. we use it for hunting and fishing. we could also use it for a poker game :-)
bruce wellington (Bws88tr)
Intermediate Member
Username: Bws88tr

Post Number: 1069
Registered: 4-2002
Posted on Tuesday, October 22, 2002 - 7:46 pm:   

tom

wheres the farm in western ny??

todd,
me and the mrs will come out if your wife makes the baklava again...

b
TomD (Tifosi)
Intermediate Member
Username: Tifosi

Post Number: 1542
Registered: 9-2001
Posted on Tuesday, October 22, 2002 - 7:14 pm:   

let me know - I usually go out to my family farm out in western Nj on Friday nights in the fall so I could stop by to play some cards on the way. Let try to do something with our better halfs too
Todd Gieger (Todd328gts)
Junior Member
Username: Todd328gts

Post Number: 196
Registered: 6-2002
Posted on Tuesday, October 22, 2002 - 7:08 pm:   

You took the words out of my mouth Tom...I was just reading FML this morning at the gym.

When are we playing a little blackjack at Gieger's Gin Mill?

We'll have to set something up.
TomD (Tifosi)
Intermediate Member
Username: Tifosi

Post Number: 1541
Registered: 9-2001
Posted on Tuesday, October 22, 2002 - 4:28 pm:   

the avg asking price for 328s non-89 is just about 50k in FML. on avg Most cars sell for 10-15% off that price imho. 89s are not much more
TomD (Tifosi)
Intermediate Member
Username: Tifosi

Post Number: 1540
Registered: 9-2001
Posted on Tuesday, October 22, 2002 - 4:23 pm:   

agree with Rob - don't be shocked that people asking in the high 50s and 60s end up selling them for high 40s low 50s. There are plenty of cars out there don't get caught up thinking you have to have it.
Rob Lay (Rob328gts)
Board Administrator
Username: Rob328gts

Post Number: 2479
Registered: 12-2000
Posted on Tuesday, October 22, 2002 - 4:19 pm:   

Stop talking to the sellers. You shouldn't pay more than $50k for even the best one!

Trust us, we know Ferraris on this board. ...and C5's. ;)
Carl Rose (Carl_rose)
New member
Username: Carl_rose

Post Number: 2
Registered: 10-2002
Posted on Tuesday, October 22, 2002 - 4:03 pm:   

Thanks everyone. You guys are a great resourse for folks like me heading for their first car. Here's what I've done to date:
* Have the 1989 owner's manual, workshop book (on CD-ROM from Ebay)
* Have the Buyer's guide and the 246/308/328 Collector's guide.
* Spoke with a gentleman here in Jackson Ferrari South no longer sells cars only performs minor work & sells parts (wonderful for me since that's what I'll anticipate requiring). Spoke with A gentleman at the Atlanta dealership last night who shall keep his eye out.

Points on individual versus dealer are well-taken. My only thought on purchasing from a dealer is that even though I shall pay a premium, I would not think a dealer would touch a "storied" car. Understand I'm open to suggestion, but I'm afraid of purchasing the wrong car since I just don't know enough.

* Regarding ABS brakes: I've gotten used to working on 35y/o cars & "one-year-only" parts generally command a premium. I do expect to perform a good bit of the service work myself; ABS brakes are far more complicated than standard systems (although if I was buying to actually "drive" the car I agree they would be better).

Also advice on finding a car with slightly higher mileage is appreciated. Frankly, my neighbor had a brand-new 1988 when I was young and I want the closest thing to what I (obviously) couldn't afford when I was 18 (equating good cosmetics with lower mileage). Realistically doubt I'll pt more than 1000/miles/year on the car. I kow that due to age regardless of mileage the car will need (or need to have had) belts, probaly water pump, valve adjustment, possibly clutch, etc. but am willing to tackle. I was told yesterday that despite the current unfavorable selling market for these specific requirements I should expect to pay $55-57k.

New questions (since yesterday):
* Any dealers/shops I should avoid?
* Any particular problems to ask for on a car?
* Any good places to look?

Have started to focus on late 1987-early 1988 cars as I seem to prefer the concave wheel appearance (but again, more interested in the "right" car).

Thanks once again,

Carl
[email protected]
Todd Gieger (Todd328gts)
Junior Member
Username: Todd328gts

Post Number: 195
Registered: 6-2002
Posted on Tuesday, October 22, 2002 - 3:32 pm:   

Carl,
I paid $50 for my 86 328GTS back in June. I was told a couple times it was a little steep but I justified it b/c I bought it off of someone I have known my whole life and the car wasn't even for sale. After owning the car 4 mos I have no regrets...send me an email with your # if you want me to share more detailed words of wisdom...I did the same thing back in June/July...this place is the best place to get all the info you will ever need.

Cheers,

Todd
tm328 (Tm328)
New member
Username: Tm328

Post Number: 13
Registered: 4-2002
Posted on Tuesday, October 22, 2002 - 7:15 am:   

i bought an 87 gts with 4500mi completely serviced.It took me 5 years to find the right one.Dont buy from a dealer.Dealers know how to do patch jobs if they own the car.Just enough to get through the 30 days.Dont think because they are a ferrari dealership they care more than any other dealership.Also you will be paying a premium for the car.Buy a car from an individual that you can tell cared well for the car and use the extra $ you saved for service for the first few years.
j scott leonard (Jscott)
Junior Member
Username: Jscott

Post Number: 189
Registered: 1-2002
Posted on Monday, October 21, 2002 - 11:41 pm:   

I probably haven't driven mine hard enough to notice the ABS! Maybe I should push a little harder.
Dave328GTB (Hardtop)
Member
Username: Hardtop

Post Number: 263
Registered: 1-2002
Posted on Monday, October 21, 2002 - 11:01 pm:   

Carl,
I would worry more about condition and servicing rather than miles. For instance, you should be able to buy an 87 with 20K and fresh major service for 50K or less. These are robust, long lasting cars. You would pay a big premium for under 10K but may not even be as good a car and depreciation will be severe if you drive it. 89's had other improvements besides ABS. Some people think they are worth the premieum, others do not. I have had an 87 GTS and currently an 89 GTB. I think 89's are better in some ways, but I am neutral as to wether they are worth it or not. I do think the GTB's are a LOT better, but if you want an open car, it won't metter. 328's are very free of problems, at least by Ferrari standards and are the last without electronic stuff that can only be repaired by dealers.

Dave
Rob Lay (Rob328gts)
Board Administrator
Username: Rob328gts

Post Number: 2471
Registered: 12-2000
Posted on Monday, October 21, 2002 - 10:50 pm:   

I've noticed my four wheel lock under braking works fine. :-)
j scott leonard (Jscott)
Junior Member
Username: Jscott

Post Number: 188
Registered: 1-2002
Posted on Monday, October 21, 2002 - 6:38 pm:   

What is your concern about the ABS? As I understand it, even if it fails, the brakes work like all other cars without the ABS. Frankly, I have never even noticed my ABS activate in my 89 328.
Rob Lay (Rob328gts)
Board Administrator
Username: Rob328gts

Post Number: 2465
Registered: 12-2000
Posted on Monday, October 21, 2002 - 3:10 pm:   

Your budget is fine, in fact, I'll sell you my 1986 Red/Tan 328 GTS for $50k. For the type of Ferrari you want, you shouldn't pay more than $50k. For $60k I would look into a nice '92-'94 348 or a '89 328 GTS with ABS or a TR.

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Frank Parker (Parkerfe)
Intermediate Member
Username: Parkerfe

Post Number: 1428
Registered: 9-2001
Posted on Monday, October 21, 2002 - 3:09 pm:   

Look up Ed Weddick(check spelling) who owns Ferrari of Atlanta and lives in Jackson, Ms.. He also owns Ferrari South which is located in Jackson.
Carl Rose (Carl_rose)
New member
Username: Carl_rose

Post Number: 1
Registered: 10-2002
Posted on Monday, October 21, 2002 - 3:03 pm:   

Hi everyone,

I'm new to this hobby & have decided to finally find a 328. Looking for 1987-88 model (non-ABS) red/tan, unmodified, <10k miles. Budget $60k. A few questions:

* Is my budget realistic for this car? Also, I figure now might be a good time to purchase as the stock market has taken a steep dip..?

* I'm looking at non-ABS cars because afraid in 20 years - most likely still have it - parts for first-year ABS will be difficult to find & even more expensive. Did all late-1988 + 1989 cars have ABS?

* Any particular problems to watch out for with this model? I don't know as much about these (have ordered a few research books)

* Finally, I'm located in Jackson, Mississippi which is great for medical disasters but not for automobiles. Family is in Houston & I think Atlanta is about 4-5 hours. Any reccomendations on resources in my immediate area? Would I be better off purchasing from a Ferrari dealer or individual?

Thanks for eneryone's help,
(and if you need help with midyear Corvettes drop me a line!)

Carl

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