| Author | Message | ||
| Dan Marlett (Ferrari_dan)
New member Username: Ferrari_dan Post Number: 50 Registered: 9-2002 |
I've read all of the posts in the past on FoD and their reluctant dealings. I have always had excellent service / dealings with them. That being said, I think most of you are dealing with the sales aspect of the business. When I go in there (at least once a month) most of my dealings are with Danny in parts or talking with Steve or Michael in service. Because I do all of my own service I buy a lot of parts from them. Michael and Steve have given me a lot of pointers and tips both over the phone and in person. I must say they have saved my A** several times, or should I say saved me many hours of troubleshooting. All in all I have always been treated exceptional there even when I arrived on foot one day. When the previous General Mgr was there we would talk quite often. At that time I didn't consider myself a prime customer of FoD. My point being, maybe there is a difference in the sales side of FoD oppose to the rest of the business. Just because you didn�t buy a Ferrari from them or had a bad experience doesn�t mean their service and parts departments are the same way. Just another point of view! | ||
| Tillman Strahan (Tillman)
Junior Member Username: Tillman Post Number: 205 Registered: 11-2001 |
Hmmm. I'm the only other one who referenced the 328 in this thread, and I sure certainly didn't offer anything on it. I think there's a disconnect somewhere in this tale. | ||
| Rob Lay (Rob328gts)
Board Administrator Username: Rob328gts Post Number: 2911 Registered: 12-2000 |
LOL Jim, it was for sure someone else, I don't know who, but they offered $35k for the car. I guess it doesn't hurt to ask, but I wouldn't of been stressing if I was James either. BTW, they have a perfect 275 GTS in there, I need to go read all my Ferrari books for a fifth time, because at first I thought it was a California. | ||
| Chris F. (Dallasguy)
New member Username: Dallasguy Post Number: 24 Registered: 10-2002 |
I received a personal email from the FoD manager this week in regards to my previous posts on Fchat about lack of response/service from them when I have been in there before. I will not post the email but I was impressed that he took the time to respond to my concerns. However, a comment that "we are unfortunately an easy target on the interenet and chat groups we are not able to please everyone," took me by surprise. I have met several of you guys and I have yet to see anyone but Ric (who already has a strong relationship with them) rave about service/attention they have received when they are there. The rest of the rather lengthy email is a good start at repairing a bad taste in my mouth. But I must say that bad taste has been several years in the making and it will take a while to repair. | ||
| Jim E (Jimpo1)
Intermediate Member Username: Jimpo1 Post Number: 1033 Registered: 7-2001 |
I think the key here is although we're not their target market now, chances are good most of us will be. I've said it before, this is my first Ferrari, it's not my last. | ||
| Jim Schad (Jim_schad)
Member Username: Jim_schad Post Number: 530 Registered: 7-2002 |
If James is talking about me I disagree. The 328 was listed at $45K. I told him of many others I could get for $42K with same svs and less miles, but I wanted a local car if I could. I said I would be interested at $42K. He didn't say yes or no. The move of course is understandable that a deal could not be done. However I called and left a vm that if he still had the car I was interested. No reply. | ||
| Rob Lay (Rob328gts)
Board Administrator Username: Rob328gts Post Number: 2909 Registered: 12-2000 |
I went and saw the showroom for the first time tonight. Oh My! I never dreamed it would be that nice. The place is huge. Conference rooms upstairs and at least 8 lifts in the garage. I spoke with both James and Tony for a long time. Risi was in, but I didn't get a chance to speak with him. I kinda gave him space like a celebrity. Summary of a long meeting with Tony is that they want to become more involved with FerrariChat.com and the FCA. I'll fill in details as they become known, but I think FOD will be a great addition to our communities. They would be the first factory dealer to come aboard and they are arguably the #1 dealer in the country. FOD has been monitoring FerrariChat.com more than I thought. Tony knew about the board almost when it started and they've even been monitoring this post. Obviously they've had a little different perspective than what some have posted, but that's always expected with two points of view. I think Ric and Mitch have said enough, but especially after meeting with them, I'm sold that they truly care about us enthusiasts. Understand that most of their sales and market are the late model buyers that aren't price sensitive. Hell, I'm a poor ass 328 owner and not a likely FOD customer for many years. They're not disrespecting our type, but we're not the best market to target right now. One of the cases on this board was explained by James to occur in the middle of the move. James said it was technically impossible to make a deal that day and he instructed the buyer to return a few days later. He said the offer wasn't even in the ball park so it wasn't something he could take too seriously. I'm sure the car would of been sold if the individual returned a few days later at the new location and there was a reasonable price agreed upon. As the FCA DFW president and founder of FerrariChat.com I try to be as impartial as possible. I really do try to see all sides of the story. I heard today more about why Ferrari wants to block Euro cars and won't work on them and why they don't deal in the older models. I'm not saying I agree with everything, but I appreciate the other angle of view. FOD can be a great ally, accept them for who they are and we can all get along. I don't expect them to sell me my next Ferrari of a GTB or a 330 2+2 at ebay prices. I don't expect them to offer a 30k service as cheap as Norwood. There will be some from our community that will give them business because they're not price sensitive and want the utmost care and service for it. They will welcome all FerrariChat.com users and FCA members to upcoming events. We may be able to meet in their conference rooms and they're planning concours type events in the adjourning land. Sounds promising don't ya think? | ||
| Mitch Alsup (Mitch_alsup)
Junior Member Username: Mitch_alsup Post Number: 249 Registered: 4-2002 |
I want to relate the other side of the story: From mid 2000 to mid 2001 I had been internet looking for a F355, a Muira, or a Viper. As my bank account became ready to buy one, and my knowledge of F355s become congruent to actually getting serious, I noticed that FOH had 2 F355s one at FOH and one at FOD. I wrote an e-mail to FOH which was greated with a prompt response with various details of the car and other slaes related data (like current asking price) not available on the we site. We exchanged a couple of more e-mails and then I quit asking for additional data. I had been dealing with a Dodge dealer looking at a Viper, and was pretty sure that I would end up with one of those (still want one). I had found one (in Pennsylvania) with the right color (red) and and interior (conoly leather). And had the entire deal set up. But before heading down that route, I wanted to at least go and see the Ferrari that I would be missing. Anyway, I blew a day off from work one Friday, and drove from Austin to Houston, got there while the salesperson was on lunch, looked over the car for a while, went outt to eat, came back and waited for a while before the sales guy got back. We spend some time looking over the car, discussing various details about service, prior owners, problems with 1995s,... We must have talked close to 45 mintues when he suggested we go for a ride. One ride later, and a conversation with my insurance person, and some clever timing on a stock trade landed an F355 in my garage. About 6 months later, the sales guy called me up on the phone and ask if I wanted to go the TWS for a day at the track. ---------------------------- It seams to me, that the difference between my story and yours is the up front contact. I actually enjoy visiting auto showrooms without salespeople following my every movement and am greatly put off by the pushy sales people. I always figgured that if I really wanted to talk to someone, that A) I could ask, or B) I could wave my hands in the air. Never failed yet. | ||
| Jim E (Jimpo1)
Intermediate Member Username: Jimpo1 Post Number: 1017 Registered: 7-2001 |
Whew! Sorry Tillman, I couldn't figure out why you were blasting Ric! LOL! It did seem a little out of charachter for you. | ||
| Rob Lay (Rob328gts)
Board Administrator Username: Rob328gts Post Number: 2883 Registered: 12-2000 |
I "heard" that even princes get turned away for test driving the new cars. Also that they see a trend that the people that end up buying are not the flashy millionaire type. The buyers come in quietly, don't cause a scene, and walk out shortly latter with a car. | ||
| Paul Hamilton (Verskel)
New member Username: Verskel Post Number: 1 Registered: 12-2002 |
Dario, - I'm the 'newest' of newbies here but found your post to be quite interesting. The problem is not 'Ferrari' but Dallas. Since Dallas has numerous millionaires these dealers & sales personnel can be the most snobbish of snobs. If you're not 'flashy' enough or famous then you're just another 'Joe' lookin' for a free test ride. My suggestion ? -I'd checkout the internet. Also, as far as test drives, may I suggest contacting the dealership in Atlanta, GA ? Your parent could fly there and view a very large selection compared to Dallas. Exotic Car World in Irving is nice with excellent service ~ but they're pre-owned cars and probably 'prohibit' test drives unless you drive up in a 996TT or a SL600. Lastly, shipping costs are very minimal compared to the overall cost of a Modena. My bet is that you'll get a better deal on a 360 outside of Dallas. | ||
| Rob Lay (Rob328gts)
Board Administrator Username: Rob328gts Post Number: 2879 Registered: 12-2000 |
I didn't remove Jackie's post, but I did read it before she/he removed it (has to be within 1 hour). I wasn't pleased with her/his first post on FC, but then I knew y'all could handle Jackie and it looks like Jackie reconsidered her/his tone too. | ||
| Tillman Strahan (Tillman)
Junior Member Username: Tillman Post Number: 200 Registered: 11-2001 |
Jim, My post was in reference to Jackie Stars' original post, which has been edited or removed in both threads. I know Ric's a good guy. I guess I'll have to remember to not react to a troll until after a full hour -- that way, they can't change the original post! | ||
| Jim E (Jimpo1)
Intermediate Member Username: Jimpo1 Post Number: 1016 Registered: 7-2001 |
Easy Tillman, Ric's an owner and guy, just like the rest of us. His perspective is one I hadn't considered. I still think it's a little weird when I pull up in my car and they still ignore me. I guess I expect that they'll see we have 'something in common' and I'll get some attention. | ||
| Tillman Strahan (Tillman)
Junior Member Username: Tillman Post Number: 198 Registered: 11-2001 |
Hmm. Obviously, you're just here to get a rise, but what the heck. If you read the thread, you'll see I was a serious buyer-- and did in fact buy a car the same week I was blown off by FoD. JimE and Bob are both owners, they got the same treatment. Jim S. is very serious and walked in with a check ready to go -- and couldn't buy a car. Ric has different experiences and viewpoints. That's good. It's nice to get another view. So, where do you get "complain about not being talked to about what you cannot buy in the first place"? Your viewpoint is welcome, but at least have the grace to tell us who you are and what your relationship with the dealer is. | ||
| Jackie Stars (Jackie)
New member Username: Jackie Post Number: 1 Registered: 12-2002 |
! | ||
| Jim E (Jimpo1)
Intermediate Member Username: Jimpo1 Post Number: 1015 Registered: 7-2001 |
Maybe we all just need to go in with Ric and get introduced! | ||
| Ric Rainbolt (Ricrain)
Member Username: Ricrain Post Number: 288 Registered: 2-2002 |
What may appear as a little strange, is the FoD/FoH salespeople have kind of a "no approach" policy. Their logic is that people will ask for information if they need it, otherwise their browsing is not interrupted. The number of non-buyer "viewers" that come in per day is staggering, so it's probably from practicality that they do this. They also have a "no drive" policy that pisses off some people, but I happen to agree with the policy. No one gets to drive the new cars without buying it first. Why? First of all, there aren't any that aren't already sold. Would you want to come in and pick-up *your* $175K car that has 200-300 "wannabe-the-leadfoot-customer" test miles on it? I sure the hell wouldn't! Another factor is that the owner believes that non-local customers should establish a relationship with their local dealers. They won't sell new cars outside their area, and they aren't real big on doing that with used cars either. One former salesman told me confidentially that *usually* the guys that come in acting big-time are usually the ones that either have no money or don't intend on buying anything in the first place. They also generally don't "size up" customers, but in practicality it probably does happen. Also, it seems to me like a lot of people come in looking for a reason to get pissed off. I've been on the floor looking at a car and seen some of the silly stuff that goes on. I've also observed that it seems like a large number of people that phone-shop don't turn in to sale, but I could be wrong. Previously (a couple of years ago), they had a salesman that was somewhat subject to moody swings, and if you didn't know him, he would come across poorly. There is no rule about not letting people on the list, except the Enzo (that's a factory rule). The deposit for other new cars applies to everyone (without exception, I think), and it's not $50K. Everyone there treats me fabulously, but I've been going in and out of there for the past 15 years (even thought the current ownership has only had it for a few years now). If this sounds like a puff piece, well so be it. But I'm not associated with them or bribed, or anything else. I like them, recommend them and utilize their services (parts, service, etc.) practically on a weekly basis. YMMV | ||
| Michael E. Weaver (Exoticcarworld)
New member Username: Exoticcarworld Post Number: 11 Registered: 8-2002 |
Dario, I think you and your dad are GREAT PEOPLE and I would LOVE the opportunity to show you both how GREATFUL I would be for your business. ;-) Thanks for the call Dario, and of course we will get you any car you want. Our Titanium 360 Spider in stock, F1 is perfect and priced right. Again, thanks for the call, lets do business, and thanks to the board for their support in Exotic Car World. Many of these board members we have sold Ferrari's to and we STILL have a great reputation... : ) Mike Weaver... | ||
| Jim E (Jimpo1)
Intermediate Member Username: Jimpo1 Post Number: 1009 Registered: 7-2001 |
There is an auto mode for the paddle shift and your mom shouldn't have any problems. There might be a prob with the wheel/gas pedal though. I'm told that the F1 tranmission is a pain for daily driving. | ||
| Dario Ferdows (Dario)
New member Username: Dario Post Number: 3 Registered: 12-2002 |
Sean, I used to drive downtown everyday to see my ex-girlfriend (girl in pics) who lives there...she works at Paris Vendome but just recently moved to the new themed ZaZa Hotel where she is running the Dragon Fly upscale bar inside....I told her a bunch of guys with Ferrari's are going to be stopping by to say hi ;) .... Anyone know about the F1 transmission question I had in my last post? Dario http://www.986host.com/albums/Dario996TT/100_0001_IMG_001.jpg | ||
| Sean Ruckel (Sruckel)
Junior Member Username: Sruckel Post Number: 119 Registered: 10-2001 |
Also, after looking more closely at the car in the pics -- do you or your dad drive around Turtle Creek often? I have seen a 996 that's very similar looking with the same looking rollbar driving around Oak Lawn/Avondale area lately. | ||
| Jim Schad (Jim_schad)
Member Username: Jim_schad Post Number: 511 Registered: 7-2002 |
Okay Sean you said it, but I wanted to. Nice 996TT Dario, but I have to say the girl featured 3 times is very pretty. That is the most polite way I can phrase it. Hope she isn't your sister! | ||
| Sean Ruckel (Sruckel)
Junior Member Username: Sruckel Post Number: 118 Registered: 10-2001 |
Good luck at FoD. I've only had one time where someone was helpful there, and I was actually allowed a test drive in the new Maserati. I think it helped that I pulled up in the Lotus and that I knew enough about the car to know I wasn't there just to waste their time. I'm just wondering who that is in your pictures... | ||
| Jim E (Jimpo1)
Member Username: Jimpo1 Post Number: 999 Registered: 7-2001 |
The last I heard, the deposit was $15k. Wait time for a 360 spyder was a couple of years. At this point if you're going to wait that long you might as well put a deposit down on the 420 and get one of the first ones off the boat. None of us have figured out how to do business with FOD. You might make a phone call and speak to the general manager. Tell him your story and tell him you're coming back. Maybe ask what you have to do to get them to take you seriously. Or, just buy that gorgeous 360 Spyder that EOC has. | ||
| Dario Ferdows (Dario)
New member Username: Dario Post Number: 2 Registered: 12-2002 |
Thanks for the responses guys...a couple more questions... My mom is only 5 feet tall so it is difficult for her to push in a clutch pedal without her seat being slammed up against the steering wheel making it uncomfortable....will the F1 transmission solve this problem for her or is it too difficult of a system to get the hang of? Do you have to always paddle shift gears or is there an automatic mode that does it for you? No one really answered whether or not you can get on a list without having previously owned a Ferrari? Is this true? Do we have to put down a $50,000 deposit? This just in case pops feels like a $30,000 add on is a slap in the face for a Ferrari now, however, he does some stupid things for my mom so you never know? Thanx, Dario http://www.986host.com/gallery/Dario996TT | ||
| Jim Schad (Jim_schad)
Member Username: Jim_schad Post Number: 508 Registered: 7-2002 |
Yes that blue spyder he drove to the Carson's night was very classy. I actually went up to FoD to buy that red/black 328 on the day they were moving (I didn't know) so he couldn't do the paperwork. I said I would call when I got back in town. I called and left vm......no reply. Still haven't bought. They are offically off my list forever until ownership changes. Seriously, WHY do they act that way? Are they so busy phone selling 360s and 575s to Dr.s and Lawyers that they can't bother with a walkup customer? Like Dario says, you walk in with a checkbook and they don't even say hello yet go over to the BMW dealer and they come out and greet you in the parking lot. | ||
| Dave (Maranelloman)
Member Username: Maranelloman Post Number: 588 Registered: 1-2002 |
I have personally seen Jeff's 360, and it is GORGEOUS! It is a 6 speed, and is flawless. Another alternative, Dario, is to go to the dealer in San Antonio. I think you'd find it to be a completely different experience: people who actually WANT your business! Ask for Jaime or Tony, and tell them Dave Scott sent you. I bought my 550 from Jaime... | ||
| Tillman Strahan (Tillman)
Junior Member Username: Tillman Post Number: 194 Registered: 11-2001 |
There's something weird with FoD. It's as if they don't want to sell cars. I called them about a 328 they had, and they wouldn't even speak to me on the phone: "I don't have time to discuss _that_ car." So, I bought from another dealer two days later. I haven't had any other experience with them, so maybe that was an exception. There's other dealers, and if he wants a spyder now he'll need to buy in the aftermarket anyway. Check out the various sponsors here, especially Exotic Car World where I bought mine. They have (had?) a drop-dead gorgeous silver/blue one not too long ago. | ||
| Jim Schad (Jim_schad)
Member Username: Jim_schad Post Number: 506 Registered: 7-2002 |
You have the same experiences we all have had with FoD. They just moved to a new location in Plano so don't go to the Richardson location as they aren't there. Sorry to say, same service. I would get online or with some of the guys on this chat board and buy an "used" 360 Spyder if that is what you guys want. Will be waiting for awhile if you want a "new" one. If I had the money to just buy a 360 I wouldn't even mess with FoD. You could get just what you want in a matter of days from anywhere else. Of course if you all keep it you will need to get it serviced so you may be back in bed with FoD unless you aren't opposed to independents like Norwoods etc. I get the feeling though that your dad isn't going to want to shop around over the phone/internet etc. If you have the interest maybe you could do it for him? Finders fee! Actually a guy on her has for sale in Austin a Titanium 360 Spyder. Look in the ferrari ads under 8 cyl. Jeff Swearingin. Good luck | ||
| Dario Ferdows (Dario)
New member Username: Dario Post Number: 1 Registered: 12-2002 |
Hi all, I'm a currently a member of the 996TT board and have lurked over here simply for the reason that my Dad wants to purchase my Mom an F360 Spyder or at least get on a waiting list here in Dallas. We've attempted numerous times to purchase a Ferrari in Richardson and all four visits have turned out to be a disappointment...Back in '98 we walked into FoD to buy my mom a F355 and my Dad is very proud of his success and feels that if he walks into a dealership he should be treated with royalty at least one that sells 100K+ cars...unfortunately no one said hi we walked around for about 5 mins until he tried to open a locked door before someone came over and said something...the "can I help you?" was very cold and the facial expression was very "oh I wish you people didn't come in here" ...we proceeded to ask if we could test drive a car and he said "no"...a cold stare later he mentioned something about we'll let you drive a used one but we don't have any...would you like to come back some other time? NO THANK YOU and my Dad walked out ... we drove straight to the Mercedes dealership where they kiss ass and bought with a check an SL600 Sport for my mom instead and drove it off the showroom floor. In 2001 he returned to FoD to buy a 456GT for himself...once again no greet...but this time I ran to the back office and told the guy my pops is a serious buyer and to get his ass up front...anyway's after about 15mins of talking about the 456 he decided to buy the one off the showroom floor with 1500miles on it....gave the guy his phone number said call me in the morning and we'll go over financials while he's at his office....three days go by no CALL??? ... He returns with my sister and my mom to show them the car he wants and asks the guy what's going on you never called? The guy apologises and sais he's been really busy etc... and will call him in the morning... NO CALL?? Back to mercedes where he was first on the list for the new CL600 and picks it up...cash! Drives off the showroom floor?  I hate mercedes!!! OK I don't want to sound like I'm boasting but since that last visit he's bought the New '03 Range Rover, '02 TwinTurbo Porsche, '02 Cl600, and is first on the list for the Maybach....The mercedes dealership called and said that my moms new SL600 is going into production and should be here soon and it will be time to trade in her old SL600... I suggested we pass on the new SL600 and get her a Ferrari or at least get on the waiting list ... do I need to walk into the Ferrari Dealership with a picture of all these cars ... a keychain with all the keys ... a bank statement ... do I need to round up my friends and pull up with all these cars to get a Hello! when I walk in?? What approach do I take? I was thinking about going in there before my dad does and telling the sales person this whole story and saying look when my pops walks in here he likes being treated a certain way etc.... and he will buy many cars from you?? Any suggestions? Who do we talk to over there? Is the rumor true they won't put you on the list unless you've owned a Ferrari before...if not it's a $50,000 deposit? Sorry for the rambling and boasting.... Dario http://www.986host.com/gallery/Dario996TT |