Looking for Recommendations

I've been browsing the forums and I didn't see a buyers guide sticky'd anywhere. Does one exist? If not any and all information would be helpful. I'm about 1 to 2 years out from purchasing a Ferrari and looking for some insight. Obviously there is no such thing as a cheap Ferrari however I'll be on a pretty strict budget. Somewhere in the ballpark of $50-90k but on the lower end would be best. Obviously the F355 is out of because I have heard about the frequent need to do engine out service. I'm not too worried if it is considered "slow" by today's standard for reference I have a 1991 Honda Beat with 63 HP. Which brings me to the other point of picking out a Ferrari model without being able to test drive one. There isn't exactly a bunch up here in fact there isn't much up here of interest automotive wise this is deep in truck country. I'll want something with a more friendly maintenance cycle. What would you guys recommend that is relatively reliable (summers are short here and on the few nice days we get I want it to be ready to drive) that isn't ridiculous on its maintenance? I'm fairly handy and can do some of the work myself as long as it doesn't involve opening the engine. 3 pedals is a must!

 

Try harder

http://www.ferrarichat.com/forum/308-328-sponsored-yellow-compass-group/175886-what-look-when-buying-308-328-buyers-guide.html

Similar at top of 360 section....

 

Thanks that's a good start but I was also kinda looking for a good comparison between the older models.

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My recommendation is to ask yourself, 'What do I want in the car? '

How is ND driving condition, will you mainly want a coupe / targa / convertible?

You need a four seater or only want a two seater.

When you are saying you are on a strict budget, this may limit your options. You mention the lower end of $50k may limit you to what is available with your other criteria.

From your write up, you can work on cars - this is good to keep the maintenance cost down. I have read on this site where someone suggested to pay the maximum you can afford for the best sourced car. This is also what you mentioned, 'ready to drive'.

Older cars will break down due to the parts are old. something to keep in mind.

Are you looking for recommendations Ferraris in the $50k and up range?

How far are you willing to travel to see a car before you pull the trigger and how will you get the car back to ND?

I am not advocating for any sales here, just trying to help you.

In my case I knew what model I wanted, knew how much I would compromise if I could not get the model I wanted and went from there. In your case, I am not reading if you are leaning towards a particular model or your choice is to have a Ferrari - no particular model in mind.

What do you have in mind?

Good luck with your search.

 

I would opt for a 360 coupe. Many for sale around $60,000 but not with a manual transmission. Looks like Minneapolis is 200 miles away from your location so maintenance could be handled there if need be.

 

I didn't know Minneapolis had a Ferrari service center. I thought the closest for me was Chicago.

As for travel distance that wouldn't be an issue for anywhere in the continental U.S. For my wants 2 seats and a stick. Coupe or Targa Top are good but I don't really want anymore convertibles. I'm looking for recommendations in the 50k-90k range on models that don't need frequent very expensive engine out service like the F355. As for what models I had in mind I was looking at the 308, 328, 348, and 360 although I'm also open to suggestions.

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^ For that price, F1 360 seems the ticket. Am not sure you can get manual with your budget. I believe there's an F-chatter who owns a 360 up the road in Grand Forks.

If my recollection of North Dakota weather is correct (I worked in Fargo for a year plus many moons ago; Go Thundering Herd!! [emoji3]), I'd forego a drop top in favor of a coupe.

Good luck with the hunt!

T

 

Wouldn't necessarily have to be serviced at an authorized dealership. Plenty of very good independent mechanics in that area, some who are members here.
One hurdle you will have to overcome, is Ferraris or not practical nor cheap to maintain. Have you considered a Porsche 911? 2000-2005 models? Great bang for the buck, six speed and easy on the pocketbook.

 

No and I get that. I'm fully prepared for expensive service I would just like to stay away from the upper end of that like the F355. I had considered the Porsche Cayman instead because I like it better on paper, I had consider a Lotus Evora, Lister Bell STR (high qualityLancia Stratos kit car) and several others. However each time I always circle back to Ferrari so I got to have one.

You're definitely right. I already have 1 convertible and that is enough. The nice days each summer here are definitely low. The 360 is a great car but I have to admit its lower on my want list. I like the raw feel of mechanical throttles and steering. That is why I have mainly been looking at the older stuff.

 

Depending on where you fall on the line, the Mondial 3.2 is the last bargain when it comes to Ferrari.

Same exact drivetrain as the 328 so about as 'fast' (coupe variant)and handling more forgiving off the track. Same gated manual, manual steering, no need for engine out service. Get the convertible for the wind in your hair joy and all the aural happiness that comes with a full drop-top.

Checks all the boxes except:

Many people hate the looks, which I respect, I never debate subjective opinions, (i.e. a Pollock painting)

All I know is if I had the money (and garage space) I would be hoarding these.
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I'd opt for the coupe personally as I already have 1 convertible and the weather here isn't the greatest but the Mondial is definitely an option. It's funny that you mention garage space. I rent a work shop so I have room for 2-3 cars there and the house we are getting ready to build (reason why I'm still a little ways out from ownership) will have a larger than normal garage. So I guess I could start hording them lol. I think i'd prefer a different model though even though I do like the look of it. It also has a back seat which I don't really need in a Ferrari.

 

I wish you the very best in your search!! I agree with others here that the 360 F1 seems to be the best candidate. Have you considered perhaps a 400/412 manual?

 

Thanks! I had not considered either but popup headlights are plus. V12? Yes please. How does it handle though?

 

here is a folder with a lot of articles and car tests.

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/0B8teqGKDb3gkb0U4Zng3NzlKTXc

Enjoy!