First Ferrari

328 or 360

 

It really depends on how much you want to spend. Either 355 or 360 would be a good first Ferrari to own!

 

Get the one you really want. If you are not sure yet exactly which one you want, then you haven't researched Ferraris enough yet. Get one that you can afford to pay cash for, keeping about 50% more money again in the bank to cover your service for the next 5 years or so. You may not need it, but you will be happy you did just in case. Once you narrow down what you want, then buy the newest and best one you can. Don't rush, take your time and look at as many cars as you can. Eventually you will find it.

just my 2 cents.

 

Modern, 328; Vintage 330GTC/S, 365GTC/4

 

It might be useful to see how I recently approached and answered your question. You are likely to reach a different conlusion but an account of my journey was posted here:

http://www.ferrarichat.com/forum/showthread.php?t=143558

I think it's very important to consider carefully for first time buyers. Good luck and happy driving!

 

Enzo FXX, then you can stop wanting a better Ferrari every year, get it over with your first shot, and move on......................

 

Yeah, but then you're on the treadmill and have to buy whatever comes after the FXX when that styling falls out of favor.

Better to go with a 250 GT Spyder Cal. or Daytona Spyder - those will always be top of the heap, IMO.

 

355 or 360 if you can afford it

 

TR can be a great entry into the fcar world. Just don't let the low entry cost fool you. It can be expensive to maintain.

 

Can't do that. Next year cometh.

 

Check on ebay, cars, dupont registry etc and find an average price range for the different models. That way you can decide what you can afford or want to spend. Then test drive as many different ones as you can, then buy the one you like the best.

 

Everyone hear has made great points. My advice for a first time shopper is don't get Ferrari-Fever.

Ferrari-Fever is the disease of lust and disbelief that you can own the car right in front of you (whatever that may be). More poor decisions have been made in this heat of passion than most would care to admit. It also leads to buying a pig with lipstick. It is hard to overcome but is essential in getting a good car.

No matter what you choose have a reputable place do a pre-purchase inspection (PPI).

Unlike real estate (worst house, best neighborhood) you want a quality example of whatever you are after. Maintenance is high on all models, especially the 12's (like the TR).

That said-- 550.

-dsd

 

308GT4, Mondial, 308/328, 360, 550

 

Think the same cars or maybe a 348

 

550 seems to recur, and it seems to be making a good name for itself as one of the relatively better built modern Ferraris.

Maybe the question to the OP is what he wants out of the car. I think the whole 308-355 series is closer to the pure, raw sports car experience (with all the joys and discomforts), while a 550 -- a car I love -- is more refined.

My biased opinion is that every rosso-blooded car guy needs a stick-shift, mid-engined screamer of a Ferrari at some point. I wouldn't mind parking a 550 next to my 328, but they aren't really the same category of car.

 

WISHLIST what other cars do you own? Plus how much are you looking to spend?

 

What about a 308?

 

Budget plays a large roll in my opinion.

Under 30K: 308gt4
30-60K: 328 or mondial cabriolet
60-90K: Testarossa or 355 or 456 6 speed
90-120K: 512TR vs 550 vs 355 spider
120-150k: 360

Decisions to narrow it down:
modern vs more classic design?
2 seat vs 4 seat?
berlinetta vs open?
is a 12 cylinder important?
what main cost can your budget afford? 550/360/328/mondial/308 gt4 have lower maint costs of those listed.

That said... my choice for 1st ferrari.... F40!

 

As you can see from these posts there is no "right" first Ferrari. Every one is different, with its own unique sets of pros and cons.

Buy what your heart tells you. If you love the 308/328/348, get one of those. Ferrari ownership is not for everyone, it can be a love hate relationship with your car. They can be Prima Donna's but they are SOOOO worth it.

best,
dsd

 

i have just that in the garage right now... a red/black 550 and a black/red 328! totally different, but if i had to pick one, i would pick the 328. the 550 is smooth and refined, very much a grand touring car. the 328 is nimble, loud, cozy but not terribly quick. i like the V8 agility vs. the V12 touringness so i prefer a V8 as my regular driver.

a good modern V8 is the 355 F1. i think that car has the refinement, performance and ease of use of a modern car while still keeping some of the old school charm. might make for the best first ferrari if one wants a modern car with a bit old school mixed in (especially with the interior).

john

 

328 or 355 would be my advise and I would also stay away from an F1, only since they are prone to increase maint. cost. Also I think you would be missing the original Ferrari experience, the gated shifter.