I cancelled my order for the 458 spider

Very true about the cost - it's a lot. I have to say I'm a convertible guy - I just love being in the car - even in downtown Perth where the speed limit is 40km/hr. Just love it.

David

 

Sounds like a smart decision - particularly when you see the price of options - the $$$ can really rack-up quickly. Good luck with whatever you finally choose - you'll love it.

David

 

This was a hard decision. I was debating cuoio or black, to me cuoio has the look of old world craftsmanship, I like it,the leather like fine Italian shoes, my Tom Ford and Armani, but very traditional. But black seemed to be more technical, more serious, more "business." Both look great, but I myself, the old ex-punk rocker in me, prefer the black.

With the CPRK racing package, I wasn't sure it was about weight. I liked the carbon driving zone b/c I liked the idea of the LED and CF paddles, but wasn't sure about the trim. I liked the dark aluminum look b/c it reminded me of fine electronic equipment, turntables and amplifiers. It's interesting that all the choices are great, but I wonder how much our aesthetic tastes are influenced by experiences from out past. My love for Ferrari came from a love of cars when I was only 7 or 8 years old, back in the 70's, making plastic models of my favorites. That's why I still want to get a black Smokey and the Bandit Trans-Am with a gold screaming chicken before I die.

 

I just ordered a white coupe with red & black interior. In my opinion, the coupe is better looking and performs better than the Spider. I don't like the roof lines of the Spider. Go buy a JCW convertible Mini if you want a cool roadster. I also have a 599 GTO and I prefer the Mini in the summer months. I think you made a sensible decision. Good luck.

 

Now that the choice is done, how long does it take to actually get the car? A friend called our local dealer and was told it takes 2 years. Is that true?

 

I am getting a white coupe as well with black interior and red stitching and other touches. I was adamant initially when I saw the spider that I loved the coupe shape more (when the roof closed), I still do, but then I realised, you would actually drive it with the roof down even if it was a winter month, as long as it was dry (although maybe not in canada with temperatures of -40 degrees c :S). I kind of also do like that they were not adamant about displaying the engine on the spider, and made sure that the roof just worked and stayed as true to the italia shape as possible. (Although I do love the engine bay window of the italia). Different cars, for different purposes, for different people. Some would say the spider gives them best of both worlds - cruising along with roof down and also that sportiness with roof up on the track. If you take away the 'summer months' from canada, you cant use your 458 much anyway, so a 458 convertible maybe is the best for them?

Anyway, each to their own. The italia is stunning. When does your Italia arrive KenTo?

Specs look really nice. Not boring. Just always get what you want, especially when factory ordering I think (who knows, you may never get a chance again, life is just too short).

 

Disagree and sounds counter intuitive but to me the best time to use a convertible is not in the heat when you bake but on a crisp clear day, heated seats, heating turned to Mono-perfect! Live in the UK so no shortage of suitable weather.

 

How can you say no to this?
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I cannot.

 

I did not.

 

I would not.

 

Our dealer has this demo Spider in Rosso Corsa, seen here at a recent track event.

it was the first spider to land in Australia, very nice.
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Cool, one of Luke's days? I haven't been to one there for ages..

First one I saw was last month at Goodwood FOS.. while I don't class myself as a "convertible" kind of guy I think the 458 Spider belongs in a class of it's own .. and in this era of misdirected tough law enforcement I reckon you could maximise your driving sensations in one with the right road well away from the madding crowd.
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Yeah it does look very nice with tan, love it with the race seats.

McLaren Sydney gave Luke a 12C for 6mths, annointed as their ambassador and does a good job organising track days. How did you find the Mac?

 

Lucky Luke! He does a great job.. always has.. I must ask him about the 12C!

Space was at a premium around the Mac.. couldn't get a decent look at all.. I was quite taken with the Wiesmann http://www.wiesmann.com/en/
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Have you had a chance to see/drive the Mac?

 

I can't either.. I don't care if they come out with the mc f'n rocket -- if the top don't go down then my wallet don't open up. It's as simple as that.

 

Nor could I!

Picked her up last Friday...

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That's what I tell all the single moms... I mean strippers hehe

 

It's a pretty versitale rule, works in a lot of situations ...

 

I get the car in the spring, which is okay by me because I don't want it in winter anyway

 

Did we change your mind yet?

 

It's interesting hearing everyone's opinions. There are many reasons I chose the coupe over the spider. I think top up on the spider, the coupe is prettier. I also wear a suit to work and formal occasions, which can really get hot in a spider with the top down. I drove my F430 today and was uncomfortable in the heat. So in Canada it's too hot in the summer, and too cold in the winter. Both are great cars, I just chose the one that works for me.

It's interesting that a lot of spider fans are in the UK. I heard that is one of the world's top markets for convertibles, which is interesting, because doesn't it rain all the time?

 

Brand new spider, 94 miles, Red/Tan

$414K (Yikes!)


http://www.lamborghinimiami.com/used/Ferrari/2012-Ferrari-458-59dcf0d20a0d0649008e3f75bd5e47eb.htm

 

Sweet Enjoy!

I'll be in that area soon.. must make a point of checking the cars there!