Hi everyone, Thinking of trading my 06 Viper Coupe with only 200 miles(dont ask) for the above car..besides the obvious differences is this a good first Ferrari or should I stay clear of the F1 tranny? More details: 13K miles,Yellow,price 100K..My car plus 30K, its at a Ferrari dealer(Steve Harris in Salt Lake).Ad says full service but I will find out more.Tell me what you think good and Bad....Kevin
There's differing opinions on the issue, but mine is that the '99 F1 Fiorano is the best 355 of the bunch! Compared to earlier models the '99 rectified some issues, and the F1 is a blast to drive. The only problem you might have is the torque - it's nowhere near Viper levels, just be prepared for that. I've driven both and to me the Ferrari is more fun - I think it's due to the smaller size, lower weight, etc. Go for it!
As a person who has owned three Vipers, definitely be aware that you will notice the torque difference. That's the only thing I do not like about my 355 (and I have the 95 model with more ponies). PM me for even more details. Steve
Having owned one I would have to say that while the F1 is ok, it's not great, especially compared to the F1 improvements made down the line to the 360, 575 and 430. I loved the 355 but would only buy it again with a 6. I also agree that it is a totally different driving car than the Viper so if you are looking for a totally different driving and maintenance experience than a Viper then maybe this is the car for you. If you have your heart set on a F1 transmission I would start with the 360 or maybe even with the 575 which I think compared to sticker might be the best buy in the Ferrari used car line up right now. You better make sure their idea of fully serviced is in sync with Ferrari's idea or it could cost you much more than you thought.
I have a 360F1 and a 355F1. The F1 in the 355 works beautifully. Just remember you still have to drive it like a stick. I had a 98 GTS viper as well, great car but the Ferrari is much more fun in my opinion. Just try and work your best deal and go for it.
I have a 99 355 Spider (non_Fiorano) and a Viper. I'd take the Ferrari any day. Of course you'll notice the torque difference, but after a few minutes, you won't care!
I liked the F1 tranny a lot in the 355. I had a '98 spyder. I didn't like the early 360 F1 tranny and got a later model with a 6 speed and liked it tons better. The 430 is spot on and it is the best and has the power you are looking for. I never owned a Viper but did ride in a friends of mine. The trade in deal doesn't look bad to me. The 100k list for a good well serviced car seems fair to me. If your car is worth more than 70k then bark a little bit more. The tax saving on the trade would net you an extra 5k in some states. It is also a no fuss easy deal to do. You make the call.
I just sold my Fiorano to Motorcars so that I could buy a Stradale. I loved that car and am forever sold on the F1 transmission. I makes spirited driving quite easy. You can concentrate more on driving. The F1 transmission can be costly if problems arrise. I don't think I would go back to a 6 speed, but that is just my humble opion. The Fiorano's are great cars, but certainly on the other end of the sports car spectrum from the Viper. The car you mention seems to be a reasonable retail dealer price is everything checks out. Best of luck. Steve
Ferrari 355 F1 Spider Fiorano Edition There is one listed here (must be slms car - likely he could give you unlimited info on the car) http://www.dupontregistry.com/autos/Search/DRauSearchDetails.aspx?itemid=4510721999
Link does not work. However, my 355 is for sale at Motorcars Intl. I wouuld be happy to talk to anyone about the car - just send me a pm.
This is what happens when a 355 races a tank...... I mean viper ...... on mountain roads.... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zi1_-TZ8FUw ..............and yes its a repost.....
Its also a good reason why you should only race on a track! Both drivers are not skilled enough either. There are lots of people out there with more money then skills driving each of these types of cars.
I really dont understand some of the comments about the F1 system in a 355. Ive driven every model of F1 up to the 599, including an Enzo, and I prefer the 355 system over all of them. To me its smoother, and in normal mode I really cant discern any noticeable difference in the speed of the gear change. Maybe its an adjustment issue, and mine happens to be just right, or maybe its just me, I dunno? Anyway, I dont see how you can go wrong with the Fiorano, its a great car
I will NEVER sell my Fiorano...There's just something about it that it never gets "old" to me...it's like the 1st time I drove it every time I take it out...You will love it!!
+1 - My mechanic who has worked on every type of Ferrari told me the 355 F1 system is one of the best and more reliable than the more modern systems----
