I have about $200k for a Ferrari, what model would you get?

It's a real thread from a real person. I've already heard some valuable opinions, and it's interesting to read what other owners say to each other about particular models.

I think a little research and opinions from other owners is invaluable. I appreciate all the feedback given, thanks.

 

With that budget you have lots and lots of good choices. My suggestion, much like most of the others, is drive a lot of different models. Go to the dealer and just have fun learning what you like and what you don't. Go in with an open mind and you will find the right one.

 

My honest advice would be to get a starter ferrari and know going in that it's a starter ferrari. Get a gorgeous, fully depreciated Modena, learn how to drive an F1, experience the difference with a low torque, high hp mid engine. Believe me, nothing else you've ever driven will be the same. I've had a 360 and F430, and I came to realize that for an every day driver, I really prefer the front v12's. Do a tour over the next few years, find your place. I did the 360, decided I wanted more power, did the F430, decided I wanted more torque in a front v12, did a 612, now I'm certain the v12's are for me and have a 599 on the way. Get a 360, enjoy it, sell it, switch. You may find as I did that buzzing around at 5k RPM isn't what you want constantly. Sometimes, but not constantly. And in a v8 you are taching all the time and getting LOTS of attention. For a first time buyer, I would NOT suggest getting into a car with room for substantial depreciation. Try a few on for size over the coming years. You may find the F430 you're targeting is your perfect car. You may not. Get to know Ferrari's before settling on a particular model and doubling down. You want to try a F430 first? Great. Get a high miles coupe and try it on for size for a year.

 

Yup. Couldn't agree more.

We own every type and can give insight and feedback that driving for a short while cannot.

How about a little more info. Previous cars- what boxes you want this car to tick? Convertible a must or want? Other cars etc

That said I would drive a California, a 599 gtb, a 430 and a scuderia. Lastly drive a 458 to see what is just above in price. They are all fantastic in different ways.


Scotts






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I see you live in Vegas. My suggestion would be to head down to Penske Wynn Ferrari and meet with Rich and his guys. An integral part of Ferrari ownership is proper maintenance and you can't ask for better with those guys. They can also offer you some expert advice on what might suit you, what to look for in a car you might want, etc. I had lots of thoughts about what I wanted to do to my CS. Bottom line, after doing what I wanted, Rich's suggestions were on point.

I too live in Vegas, half the year. PM'd you.

 

How about buying a relatively modern car, that is a v12, stick shift and will not go down in price. Then you can see if you like the Ferrari experience and you can get your money back when you want. Unless you are looking for a convertible, I would suggest going for a 550 or stick 575. I think they are around $75-80k and $110-125k or so at the moment.

If that doesn't work and you are looking for a fun raw experience, how about a 430 scuderia? I think also has limited downside. I think they are around $150k - $200k at the moment. Or staying with the 430 idea, how about an early 430 stick? Should be $100-$125k or so I would guess.

If you need that convertible, maybe an early California in a good color at under $150k. You will lose money on that, probably $20-25k a year for the next few years, but should be a trouble free first experience I would hope. Or back to your original idea of a 430 spider, I think there were some sticks, I would look for one of those.

 

Early 458, Scuderia 430, 430, and my last option would be a Cali.


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+1

 

You state in a few years you will "probably own it for a few years and resell it".

My advice....get the nicest, most perfect Testarossa you can get your hands on for less than the $200K you want to spend. In a few years, I bet you will change your mind, you'll love it, and you'll keep it....and have extra cash on hand.

If I am wrong and you sell, you'll drive an icon of the Ferrari world for a few years and your wallet won't get rocked like the other models.

 

I like the way you think. For 200 smackers, you can get one hell of a TR with heaps to spare Also, there aren’t many other Ferrari's that get as many looks as the TR.

 

Yeah but a guy looking for an f430 as a first Ferrari isn't going to be a good candidate for a testarossa. It's your favorite car for his money, not sage advice for the OP.

 

"I have about $200k for a Ferrari, what model would you get?"

He asked.... "what model would YOU get?" I answered.....But as you say, it is his money. ...

 

Get a 85 Mondial.

 

Good point

 

All good points. I drove a 355 and a 458. Loved both.

I would most likely go for a 599 or 550 / 575 as I am a big fan of the front engined V12s.

As the guys say, get into one with little depreciation left, enjoy it, and move on (if that is your fancy).

 

Futility of such threads.
Hey guys, I'm going to Baskin Robins on my way home, what flavor ice cream should I get (price is no object)?

 

Now we are getting somewhere...

Yummm...Ice Cream! LOL
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Yep...Ice Cream....
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^^^^^ WOO HOO^^^^ NSFW

[ame=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0bXpQVJwlsY&feature=kp]Eddie Murphy's Delirious Part 5 - Ice Cream - YouTube[/ame]

 

Kinda like how you post useless comments twice in the same thread? Now that's helpful. Just to be clear....you think this thread is....futile....yeah?

 

Absolutely... again IMO....
Now back to the Ice Cream...
How about Ice Cream and Cats!! Now I've gone and done it:
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Thanks for all advice and input! I checked out Testarossa's, a little more vintage than I want.. but then again I can see myself liking those as well! I need more garage space.

Going to check out Penske, after I review some more models.

At Penske, how's it work for test drives? They must get everyone wanting to "test", is there some restriction?

 

Check your PM's.

 

My experience with 12 cyl front engine V12s is that they understeer big time. Front engine cars (including the Cali) are GTs. Mid engine cars are sports cars.

Find a car that you are passionate about, that you love to drive and looks so good that when you go into your garage you say, "Wow."

Spiders: it "feels" like you are going faster. More fun, less tickets.

I owned an F355 GTS, then a 360 spider. Then I drove a 458 Italia. I had to have a 458. got a Spider. Best car I have ever owned.

My advice: get a nice 308 or 328 GTS (targa top) and wait for the 458 Spider to get down to $200k. You will not lose much on the 3x8 and may have a gain. When you get the 458 you will have the best NA V8"sports" car in the world. and that is nothing to sneeze at.


Best.

 

F430 SCUD! I tracked this baby and found it to be the best Ferrari to own. Those heart pounding shifts!! WOW! I hope to own this one day after I sell my 360