Hi Guys, Having recently sold my Ultima GTR, I am, as the title says, currently looking to buy an F430 Coupe. Requirements: Exterior color: Rosso Corsa Interior: Beige preferred, but will consider Black or Cuoio if all else is right Year: Doesn't matter if all else is right Transmission: F1 Mileage: Doesn't matter overmuch if all else is right Options: Carbon driving zone Records: Complete service history and clean Carfax Preferences: Steel brakes All known problem areas addressed A regular driver vs. a garage queen I'd like to keep the cost under $110K and am willing to be reasonably patient with the search timeline if necessary in order to locate the right car for me. I'd love to find a car in Florida so I can easily see it in person, but that's not essential by any means. That's all I have off the top of my head. I'm looking forward to being a contributing member of the community vs. a mere lurker! Ken
Still looking... Some additional preferences: Red contrast stitching Hifi stereo (with subwoofer box between the seats) Leather headliner Yellow tach Parking sensors (really not even a "preference", just a nice-to-have feature) Scrupulously honest and non-delusional seller
I'm willing to go a little higher, so long as I won't have $8-10K of immediate work to bring a newly-purchased car up to my standards. Sooner or later (hopefully the former), somebody will offer a suitable car for an appropriate price and I'll jump on it. Until then, I'm more or less resigned to living vicariously online, Ferrari-wise.
Performance-wise, it's absolutely incredible. I had 700+HP (LS7) in my 2200 lb car; it was the fastest-accelerating street car I've ever driven. That said, it was an extremely raw ride and my wife wouldn't ride in it for more than half an hour or so at a time. As we all know, the phrase "race car for the street" is overused and usually inappropriately applied, but it really fit the Ultima. Tube frame, 8-point roll cage, superbike quick, top speed ~230. Needless to say, the car got attention everywhere. The level of foolishness as people crossed lanes of traffic to get a better look (hanging out of car windows to snap photos, etc.), was completely insane. I had guys follow me - sometimes for miles - just to chat when I stopped. I rarely got out of a gas station without having to talk to someone about the car. I expect that the F430 will be much the same on the ownership experience front, but I'm hoping somewhat less so. If you've got any specific questions, please fire away... Ken
Thanks! I've always wanted one, but been hesitant for the reasons you mentioned. Did the car require an intercom system for conversations while driving? How was the build quality? Felt like driving a kit car, or a really raw production car?
I'm definitely thinking about yours. I'm not big on the Challenge rear grill (I know that's probably not a popular opinion), but it'll be a contender if I haven't found another car by next month. Price is of issue, too, of course...
No intercom required, though normal conversation under power is certainly compromised. Raised voices are a necessity. I was definitely tempted, at times, to wear my earplugs, but never did. Build quality on the kit was mostly excellent (the wiring wasn't quite up to my aviation standards) and all of the piece parts are first rate. That said, kit organization was lacking with detailed identification of each nut and bolt in a sub-assembly bag usually missing. Documentation was terrible. A mix of poor descriptions, out-of-date photos, and a complete (deliberate) lack of engineering drawings. Phone and email support were good and absolutely essential. Despite the factory's claims otherwise, this is not a project for a first-timer. Due to my extensive build experience (airplanes, motorcycles, and other similar projects), I was able to "just make it work", though not without a near-constant level of frustration. The driving experience had more in common with a race car than any street car I've ever driven. Loud, hot, and essentially non-insulated, every motion of the steering and suspension is distinctly felt. That's great for instant feedback on the track, of course, but jarring, tiring, and inhospitable to passengers on the street. If I had to liken it to another street car, strictly from the driving experience perspective, think of something like an original Cobra or GT40 (I've never driven a replica, but imagine them to be much the same, especially when utilizing correct FE engines) - loud, hot, and jarring. It's meant as an homage to the Le Mans Group C cars and is probably every bit as comfortable as they were when driven in anger. It's not a rational car, by any means, but it definitely appeals to some. So, should you get one? After reading the above, I suspect you know your own answer. The only other question is: what color will you get? Ken
You may be very aware of this (if so please disregard)....but aesthetics aside, the rear Challenge grill serves a very important role is helping vent engine heat. Which can be pretty extreme even under normal driving conditions. I would not have a 360 with it. Good luck with your search.
