Advice on 550

Hi,
I'm considering this car:

http://www.continentalautosports.com/inventory/details.aspx?id=NLIL0007.5/8341

Any feedback would be appreciated... specifically, will the aftermarket armrest and shelf addition (apparently there's some stereo equipment built into the extended shelf bump) adversely affect resale? I was thinking I'd prefer completely stock, but I actually don't mind the armrest.

How about pricing guidance?
I'll have a PPI done if I decide to proceed, but apparently the major and belt service were performed recently.

Thanks.
Tom

 

115K

 

Best Exterior Colour for a 550, Crema doesn't look right inside, Central armrest is hideous - If you do buy it, rip it out immediately !

Argento

 

Hi, I like the exterior colour as well as the interior, although I am not so crazy about the colour combination of the Daytona seats.
The armrest is probably comfortable although it looks a bit out of place, mostly because it is so big, IMO.
However it should not be too much of a problem to remove it one day, if you decide to sell the car.
The most important thing is to verify the car is sound before you buy it.
In fact you may even use the presence of the arm rest and of the modified shelf to negotiate the price down somewhat.
Good luck,
Saluti

 

That's a good looking car. Shoot for $110. Remove the armrest!

 

Color combo is nice.

Loose the arm rest.

What's with the shelf?

$115k agreed

John

 

The armrest and shelf are beyond ugly. Are there any other "customisations"? The architect of the shelf and armrest spent good $ and was obviously passionate if IMO misguided. I would get the car back to stock asap

 

There's also a built in radar detector on this car, as well as a Navigation system (built into the stereo I think)

I think I'd really like the car without the armrest, or at the very least, a plain looking armrest. I'm going to ask them how difficult it would be to remove.

I don't mind the reduced space in the luggage shelf... that looks like it can be brought back to stock rather easily.

Thanks for everyone's advice... I'm thinking of flying over to have a look.
Tom

 

Tom, I would wait for the right car, there are plenty out there, I waited, and couldnt be happier now. This car has been messed with, even with the right intentions, granted you can remove the armrest, but what kind of mods were done to that hideous shelf? And what kind of owner does that to a Ferrari? By the way, are there service records to day one? My 2c, keep looking. mark

 

Tom, did you see the 1800 mile silver car at motorcars intl?

 

I think the car looks great and I lke the daytona seats. The armrest in personal and you can use if for bargining.

 

GAHH in LA has leathercraftsmen that have successfully changed the Daytona seat stripes and rear shelf for other owners so I'll bet they can do most anything you desire. Since you're in Orange county they are a short drive away from you.
Just an option.

 

Regarding the 1800 mile car at Motorcars International, it's very nice...

How much do you think they would let it go for? They are asking $146K ..

http://www.motorcars-intl.com/veh_detail.aspx?stockno=M-3990&title=2001%20Ferrari%20550%20Maranello&stocknoid=324

 

I talked to a salesman there... he wouldn't move far from the $146K asking price... there's been no major or belt service either. It IS a nice car, however.

Tom

 

Car needs modulars and, unless that armrest doubles as a beer cooler, rip it out asap....

 

I hope it's quilted cause he'll be buried in it...

 

I have a 99 yellow black 6950 miles for sale for $115k TUBI DAYTONA AND MAJOR DONE 400 MILES AGO. PM IF ANYONE IS INTERESTED.
Image Unavailable, Please Login

 

I am usually considered to have good taste- fwiw- I actually like the daytona seats in the silver car with that creme colored basic leather. I agree about the armrest, though. And, the rear shelf does look unnecessary. My main concerns would be the usual spots on a 550, which, if memory serves, I can list here, but would suggest that you do some searches to get details.
*engine mounts (when were those no longer a problem?)
*rear window delamination
*hoses- replace 'em
*funky ECUs- certain recalls, and I know the driver's seat chip had problems on some cars;
*some of the modular wheels leaked
*major service done by authorized Ferrari dealer
*fresh tires- a must in almost all cases (p Zeros, I personally did not like the Michelins or the Bridgestones offered at the time, but did like the Goodyear Fioranos which were pricey, and yes, I ran all of these tires on two different 550s over the course of several years)
Haven't owned one of these for a while, so excuse my memory if I forgot anything. A search will pull it up. Good luck. They are fine cars and a joy to drive.
PS- honestly, i think it is less important that you see the car than having a reputable independent mechanic that knows 550s give it a thorough PPI. All your visit will establish is whether you like the cosmetics of the car in the flesh, but won't tell you anything about the integrity of the vehicle for possible purchase. And, yes, demand full service records and if they aren't available, put a question mark next to this car, particularly if it was sold and maintained by that dealer.

 

I'd lose the armrest.

Rear shelf looks like a subwoofer custom install.
Subs belong in the trunk with vents to the cabin.

 

Good news... Apparently the armrest just sits there... not bolted down or anything. It can be easily removed. I'm thinking of having a PPI done... any recommendations in the Chicago area? I'll post in the subforum also.
Thanks for everyone's advice.
Tom

 

You could use the other authorized Ferrari dealer in the Chicago Area for the ppi. Lake Forest Sports Cars - (847) 295-6560.

 

hvae you read the write up on 550 service in SCM?

 

I read the thread regarding the article stating that $10/mi was the cost of ownership... still hasn't deterred me though.


Seriously though, I searched the Chicago subforum for independent PPI's and the two that were recommended were:
1. Continental Autosports (where the car is located)
2. Lake Forest (another authorized dealer where in 2005 the car just had it's major and belt)

I'd prefer an "unbiased" opinion. If I can't get one, should I send the car to Lake Forest? Both dealers have good reputations on the board.

 

A PPI by the party selling the car is like having sex with yourself- it is only good if you memorialize it.

 

Check out my 550 posted on Ferrari chat 11/6, beautiful car!