| Author | Message | ||
| David S (Djs308)
New member Username: Djs308 Post Number: 14 Registered: 9-2002 |
I rented a black 94 348 Spyder in Maui during my vacation in 2001. I took the 6 hour option. This was my first time actually "driving" a Ferrari, not my first ride. Let me say this: driving is a lot more fun!! I got to see first hand what all the owners are talking about when they mention the "experience" of it all. The music from the engine, the push in the back under acceleration, the g-force in tight bends. It's all unreal!! So, yes, I'm very happy I decided to rent it. It was a small fortune, but 20 years of dreaming about the first drive finally concluded on a happy note. I don't plan on buying a 348 but for 6 hours, it was a heavenly ride. | ||
| Paul Wehmer (Pwehmer)
New member Username: Pwehmer Post Number: 14 Registered: 10-2002 |
We rented a 348 Spider in Vegas when we got married. It was well worth it- we had a lot of fun in it & isn't that why you drive a Ferrari? Renting one answered a big question I had. I wondered how practical it was to drive & own one. A rental 348 with 30K miles still drove well. If it can stand up to rental car abuse- and I bet they got drove very hard- then they should be ok. Had some grind on 2cd gear which didn't surprise me. Origionally I have reserved a 355 but was told a guy had literally blown up the clutch in it and the car caught fire. | ||
| David A. Spear (Detailman)
New member Username: Detailman Post Number: 34 Registered: 5-2002 |
Go for it, anything to drive a 355 is worth it as long as you have a good time (and you will) I got my first f-car this past summer and have only driven it a handfull of times. For months after the first one I drove I went around like a kid making vrooom-vrooooom sounds. | ||
| Andreas Forrer (Tifosi12)
Junior Member Username: Tifosi12 Post Number: 157 Registered: 10-2002 |
I think I had to come up with proof of insurance. I also double checked with my insurance company to make sure, I would be covered. Turns out, I was, for rentals regardless of value as long as I didn't take the car to a track, which the rental car company also forbid. Just driving up and down the strip gave me a sense of what F car ownership would be like: People stop and stare like you're a movie star or something (obviously they look at the car, not at you). Didn't matter that it had the 'Dreamcar Rentals' license plate frame. Took the 348 to the Hoover dam and parked, people came from all over the place to take a look at it and talk. As if I knew what say... Funny thing was, that all three cars had only a little bit of gas, so first order of biz was to fuel up. Well, I didn't know where the freakin fuel flap opener was. Nobody at the gas station knew either and there was no manual. So I used my cell to call the rental company and they had a good laugh and explained. 8-0 | ||
| Fred (I Luv 4REs) (Iluv4res)
Member Username: Iluv4res Post Number: 260 Registered: 8-2002 |
In Vegas, they 'reserved' $500 on a credit card as a security deposit. They asked for copies of our driver's licenses and that's all. I couldn't believe they didn't ask for proof of insurance. I don't know what they could have fixed for only $500, but if the s**t hit the fan, 500 bucks is cheap!!! Definitely worth the $. See my post below. | ||
| Mitchell L. Davidson (Jussumfastgi)
Member Username: Jussumfastgi Post Number: 341 Registered: 4-2002 |
"It's strange but 9 out of 10 people that approach and ask about the car are smoking." How about that. | ||
| David Jones (Dave)
Member Username: Dave Post Number: 481 Registered: 4-2001 |
Do I let people smoke in my car? Not only no but Hell no! It's strange but 9 out of 10 people that approach and ask about the car are smoking. | ||
| Mitchell L. Davidson (Jussumfastgi)
Member Username: Jussumfastgi Post Number: 328 Registered: 4-2002 |
You let people smoke in your car? | ||
| David Jones (Dave)
Member Username: Dave Post Number: 477 Registered: 4-2001 |
If you really want a Ferrari, then you need a plan of action. It's funny, people all the time see me getting out of my car and say, boy I wish I could afford a Ferrari... I look at them smoking the cigarette in their hand and say, you can... If you stop smoking. Their reply is usually, sure, right... Hey, drop that $10.00 a day habit, and save $10.00 a day for 7 years and then buy a 308... Out of all the people I have said that to, I think only one of them decided that driving a Ferrari was more fun than dying of cancer... Too bad. | ||
| Andreas Forrer (Tifosi12)
Junior Member Username: Tifosi12 Post Number: 155 Registered: 10-2002 |
When I rented the three different Ferraris in Vegas I sat down after each drive and wrote down my impressions, what I liked and what not. Later I compared those notes to the Forza's buyers guides test reports and it was amazing how much better you understand Goodfellow once you have actually driven the real deal. It never meant much to me to read about a 'notchy 2nd' etc., but now I could relate and have to say his reports are very concise. But you can only get their full meaning if you experienced it at least once. The 2k deposit on the rentals in Vegas is kinda true: Forgot what the deposit was, but it wasn't a big deal as they take it off your credit card (no cash deposit necessary) and put it back on when you return the car. So if your card has enough spending limit or say is a new card, no problemo. As far as the dream goes: Well it took me 20 years to finally take the plunge. My only regret so far: That I didn't do it earlier. I could have financially, but was too scared. Still am, but less every day. | ||
| DES (Sickspeed)
Junior Member Username: Sickspeed Post Number: 120 Registered: 8-2002 |
Jordan... Life is short- take one out for a day. | ||
| Jordan Witherspoon (Jordan747_400)
New member Username: Jordan747_400 Post Number: 9 Registered: 12-2002 |
Think ive decided not to rent it...at least for a while. I have never driven a Ferrari so I plan to rent one before I consider purcharsing one in the future...just in order to get a feel for the cars. I definetly wanted to rent it for myself...not to impress anyone. However, like some of you said, I could save that money in the bank and use it twoards more practical purposes. Its always good to have some extra cash too  John, I feel like you in many ways. It was a boyhood dream to own a Ferrari but rather than just dream, I want it to be my reality. I feel like owning a Ferrari is a big part in who I am. Rarther than just getting a quick fix for a day like some of you said, I'm gonna put a couple thousand aside in the bank to help get me closer to ownership. It just seems like the more logical step... | ||
| John Li (Pchop)
New member Username: Pchop Post Number: 37 Registered: 6-2002 |
Jordan, did you ever get that sad feeling when you were a kid and had to leave the toy store b/c you couldn�t afford that toy you wanted? Yes, when I got my license I literally dreamed of owning a Ferrari and I couldn�t tell you how many times I felt disappointed when I woke up and realizing that it was only a dream. On my 18th birthday, I pasted a picture of a F-355 Spider next to my bed and every morning I would say to myself that I�m one day closer to getting my Ferrari. Well, it�s been almost 10 years, but instead of waking up to that same picture, I wake with my own F-355 Spider in my drive way everyday There�s nothing wrong with live your life a little, but like Dave said, what are you trying to accomplish? To me, $800 is still a lot of money, perhaps it could be better �invested� else where�e.g. Ferrari Club of America annual membership� if you�re luck, perhaps a good hearted owner can give you a free ride at one of the FCA�s event in your area. I�m sure you can figure out the rest. Good Luck! | ||
| David Jones (Dave)
Member Username: Dave Post Number: 469 Registered: 4-2001 |
I think what you really need to decide is whether you just want to drive a Ferrari to impress someone else, or want to own one to enjoy for yourself. Then decide where your hard earned cash is best spent. | ||
| David J. Smith (Darkhorse512)
Junior Member Username: Darkhorse512 Post Number: 74 Registered: 10-2002 |
Renting for prepurchse evaluation? Do it! Renting for the quick fix? Most of those rental places want at least a $2K deposit (Even those places in Vegas). If you've go $2K, plunk that money down on a 308 GT4 loan. | ||
| Jeff Green (Carguy)
Junior Member Username: Carguy Post Number: 79 Registered: 10-2002 |
Before getting my Ferrari I was going to rent on when on vacation in Ft. Lauderdale. They had a 360 spider for rent for the paultry some of $2,000 a day plus mileage. I was ready to spend maybe a thousand bucks for a day, but not two! | ||
| Jordan Witherspoon (Jordan747_400)
New member Username: Jordan747_400 Post Number: 8 Registered: 12-2002 |
Actually I was planning on renting the one at Showcase on PCH. They have the cheapest prices Ive seen anywhere in california! Their renting age limit is also only 18! Most other places are 25 and Im not there yet I still haven't decided if Im going to do it or not and Ive got mixed replies on here. Ill let you guys know for sure or not. | ||
| Francisco J. Quinones (Frankie)
Junior Member Username: Frankie Post Number: 96 Registered: 8-2002 |
do it!!! why not?it may cost you an arm and a leg but at least you get to experience it,in one of the sport compact mags this month,can't remember which,they have an article about two guys renting a 360 F1 coupe for three days in cali i believe from budget rental i don't remember the daily fee but it was $1.00 a mile,cost them over $5,000.00 for the weekend but said it was worth it,nice car also a dark blue 360. if i could i would just my .02 enjoy and tell us how it went. | ||
| Matt Lemus (Mlemus)
Member Username: Mlemus Post Number: 901 Registered: 8-2002 |
Drive it like you stole it. | ||
| Fred (I Luv 4REs) (Iluv4res)
Member Username: Iluv4res Post Number: 257 Registered: 8-2002 |
Owning your own is definitely better. However, prior to purchasing one, you should drive several. Renting is a good option. When you're ready to buy, you know what they are supposed to feel like. You can drive without a paranoid owner (with good reason). If you are unsure which model to buy, you can rent a few to see what you like. Lastly, it may stregnthen your passion or help rule out buying one prior to plunking down the cash. Oh, and most importantly, with a rental, you can do things that you would NEVER do with your own!! Rent in Vegas. It's about $500 for a few hours. More for a full day. They don't give you many miles, but it's enough to go have fun with. | ||
| Fred (I Luv 4REs) (Iluv4res)
Member Username: Iluv4res Post Number: 256 Registered: 8-2002 |
Owning your own is definitely better. However, prior to purchasing one, you should drive several. Renting is a good option. When you're ready to buy, you know what they are supposed to feel like. You can drive without a paranoid owner (with good reason). If you are unsure which model to buy, you can rent a few to see what you like. Lastly, it may stregnthen your passion or help rule out buying one prior to plunking down the cash. Oh, and most importantly, with a rental, you can do things that you would NEVER do with your own!! Rent in Vegas. It's $500 for a few hours. More for a full day. They don't give you many miles, but it's enough to go have fun with. | ||
| Andreas Forrer (Tifosi12)
Junior Member Username: Tifosi12 Post Number: 148 Registered: 10-2002 |
When I rented my 355 (as well as a 348 and a TR) they made me fill out a form where I marked every nick and ding (there weren't that many) and I was very intimidated. They also told me to pull into parking lots at an angle etc. So I was rather worried, but when I brought the cars back, they just briefly glanced at them and that was it. Wasn't really a big deal. I think they just want you to get a little intimidated so you don't behave like a pig. Also allegedly the car has some electronics, that shut it down if you over rev in 1st gear (1/4 mile race type). I never tried to anyway. | ||
| Ton Visser (Lion315)
New member Username: Lion315 Post Number: 37 Registered: 12-2002 |
Live the dream! | ||
| Scott A. B. Collins (Scott)
Junior Member Username: Scott Post Number: 90 Registered: 6-2001 |
One thought--some rental places will inspect underneath the front spoiler--the 355 has a low nose, and if you scrape it (at all) they sometimes will make you pay for a respray. | ||
| Rob Lay (Rob328gts)
Board Administrator Username: Rob328gts Post Number: 2924 Registered: 12-2000 |
Umm, a user from FerrariChat.com rented a 355 from ECW here in Dallas and I think wrecked it. I haven't heard the entire story, but something along those lines. I'm not sure how much out of pocket this individual was. | ||
| Andreas Forrer (Tifosi12)
Junior Member Username: Tifosi12 Post Number: 146 Registered: 10-2002 |
Dreamcar rentals in Las Vegas has the lowest prices. For about $ 500 you get the car for 5 hours (you can have it longer, but it is gonna cost you more). I did that once and took it for a nice ride up the Interstate and then through Red Rock Canyon park. Beautiful place, was perfect for a photo shoot and also getting to know the car a bit better. Was a great experience and I will do it again next time in Vegas. | ||
| John K (Foc355b)
New member Username: Foc355b Post Number: 12 Registered: 11-2002 |
Definitely rent the car. As an onwer of a 355, I can say that it is absolutely pure excitement to drive, and you will not regret it. | ||
| John K (Foc355b)
New member Username: Foc355b Post Number: 11 Registered: 11-2002 |
Check out Showcase Rental on the PCH, in Newport Beach. It's roughly 2 miles past Josh Slocums. I'm pretty sure they have a black/tan 355 Spider, 6 speed, for 799 a day. | ||
| Jeremy Lawrence (F512m)
Junior Member Username: F512m Post Number: 81 Registered: 1-2002 |
Go for it. I rented a yellow 355GTB for my wedding. It was worth every penny. But please be careful, it will make you want an F car even more. So much that you may need to seek counseling to keep your priorities straight. :-) | ||
| Matt Lemus (Mlemus)
Member Username: Mlemus Post Number: 887 Registered: 8-2002 |
Jordan, Budget rent a car in Beverly Hills on Santa Monica and Wilsher rents them. I hear it's pretty unreasonable. You need all sorts of deposits and there is a cost permile with no freebie's and there is an age requirment | ||
| Mitchell L. Davidson (Jussumfastgi)
Member Username: Jussumfastgi Post Number: 325 Registered: 4-2002 |
"*with valet parking of course*" Why would you do that to the poor car? | ||
| Charles Barton (Airbarton)
Junior Member Username: Airbarton Post Number: 64 Registered: 11-2002 |
Jordan, live a little and rent the car. These things are a ton of fun to drive, well worth $800. If your lady friend has a good time you might even get lucky. Life is to short not to experience things like driven an F-car! If you do decide to do it let us know how it goes. | ||
| Dave Penhale (Dapper)
Member Username: Dapper Post Number: 410 Registered: 4-2002 |
I think the later. Be proud of it when you know its YOURS not a sham for a day. Just my twopenneth | ||
| Jordan Witherspoon (Jordan747_400)
New member Username: Jordan747_400 Post Number: 6 Registered: 12-2002 |
Im a few years from owning my first Ferrari but I figure for my birthday it might be fun to rent a 355 spyder for a day and take it around town. I figure I can pick up a lady friend of mine and just drive up and down PCH with the top down...maybe finishing off the day with a nice dinner at a fancy restraunt *with valet parking of course * and then returning the car the next morning. Have any of you guys rented before and do you think its worth it? Or should I just save 800 bucks and wait a few years? |