348/355 ride/drive request Philly, PA

Hi everyone, thanks for reading my post. While I'm still 2-3 years away (realistically) from acquiring a Ferrari. I would like to take the time now to meet with as many 348 & 355 owners as possible and view your cars in person. I would very much like as many opportunities to ride and drive as many examples as possible to better familiarize myself with variety and conditions of cars out there as well as I would also like very much to learn more about these great cars with info strait from the horse's mouth (so to speak) Thanks again for your time. Feel free to PM me.

Located in NE Philly near Grant & Academy ~Mike

 

Thanks. Ive gone several times. Chatted with a 355 owner a bit but no ride or drives. Haven't seen any 348 there. Rode shotgun in a 308 QV, Elise and NSX. All of which are the typical 30-60k range exotics one might choose from. I like the Elise as it seemed more like a modern X1/9.. hated the Elise because the top was on and a PITA to get in/out of. The 308QV was great and is a dream car of mine, but I want to experience a 348/355 before I really consider it. The NSX was my favorite of the group, despite the unemotional sounds from it (to quiet/non exotic for me).

 

182 views and no offers? Is my request really asking so much? :/

 

Thats very understandable and I agree completely. I did not say or imply meeting at anyone's house or being a stranger before hand. I want very much to meet with the people who own the cars and get to know them, so I can learn more about both car and owner. Learn what ignited their passion for these particular models and their experiences while owning their cars. Yes I want to get as much hands on time with each model and as many examples as possible to form a better reference, but I'm not some ya-who looking to joy ride. I attend C&C and think its a great way to network, make new friends and get face time with the machines I'm passionate about. Its also in an environment that is safe for both myself and the owners & cars. You make it seen as though the owners are the only ones with something to loose or are in a vulnerable position. Perhaps thats ego speaking? I'm looking for owners to say whether they will be at a certain event and if they are willing to help me in my quest. So far the answer is an obvious "no" and is very disappointing for me as not only does this reenforce common stereotypes of Ferrari owners (which I try to give the benefit of doubt), but also is impeding steps I need to take on the path to acquisition of a life's long goal of Ferrari ownership as an enthusiast.

 

Thank you for the suggestion E60 M5. I was trying to stay away from the dealer network as I doubt they will be very accommodating seeing as I'm not technically in the market to buy, just yet. I was hoping I could meet with and rely on other enthusiasts to help me, but I've clearly wandered into the wrong crowd and somehow offended the sensibilities of my peers.

 

Perhaps your rite. I am impatient. If however you consider the fact I've been waiting since I was 10, I'd say that's pretty patient lol. As for the attitude: it was certainly not my intent to ruffle feathers or make a scene or over step any unspoken taboo's in my request. My attitude is only in regard to the responses from members who are reading alot more into my request then whats actually there. I would never expect a stranger to let me drive their car or meet at their house. Especially in Philly! Whether it be a Honda, a Ford or a Ferrari. I actually like buying cars that have a strong enthusiast network, as I believe "the people" is a big part of the enjoyment of ownership. I enjoy meeting new people, making new friends, learning new things and sharing my passion & enthusiasm with other like minded individuals. All I was wanting to know from my original post was if any local owners were willing to meet and chat with me (at any venue) and if any would be open to letting me experience their cars at any time (doesn't have to be the first time we meet). Unfortunately translation and tone can easily be lost on the web and in a forum post.

 

I guess I just figured every Ferrari owner in the area is as enthusiastic and active as possible (as I know would be) and this section would be my best starting point. It was not my intent to seem like an ingrate.

 

Thanks. Its the thought that counts.

 

I know you are and its appreciated. I see how my second post could especially be taken as demanding or ungrateful even though it was not even in my mind as such. And I'm certainly not that type of person. I nearly hugged the fellow in the 308 for taking me in a spin. It was a dream come true for me! But as I said: tone and intent doesn't translate well over a typed message on an internet forum. Thanks for posting that vid. I watched it the other day and commented in your thread. Despite what the nay-sayer say, it sounds great for $700!!! It is a touch loud but hell its only complimenting the loud yellow of your car and in that respect is perfect!

 

Thanks again. It was a blast to be in at full song and a very nice/well maintained example to base my searching from. I loved it!