355 pricing

What do you guys think about the trend in 355 pricing? I am seeing lots of cars come for sale with a wide spread between say early Berlinettas and later spyders (as one would expect). For example, this apparently clean 1996 (http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1&item=4519597277&ssPageName=STRK:MEWA:IT ) looks like it trades sub $68k. The reason I am asking is because I am still going over the mental list of the replacement for my BMW 850. As you may remember my "short list" is"
355
Lotus Esprit
911 TT (996)
new Z06 priced at $65k?

Any input you have is greatly appreciated.

 

One more thing causes a large spread in price - cars with timing belts changed and cars that still require that service. No mention in the adv as to which this is, though 'records are available'.

 

First things first; go for the 355. When I did, I had a pristine BMW M6 (325 HP with mods) and still have a 93 M5 (24K miles) that was supercharged to 465HP. The 355 drives circles around both of them -- it's an orgasm in a space-age go cart and everyone -- including you -- loves to watch.

Regarding price, it's model-specific, of course. I was told repeatedly by reliable brokers that an F1 spyder holds value and will draw many possible buyers, should you decide to sell. A Berlinetta, in contrast, seems to draw 1/3 the buyers, and the Targa (which I very much like) about 1/2 the buyers.

Regarding 30K servicing, getting it done yourself is VERY reassuring because it sets a truly informed baseline FOR YOU about your car. But count on spending 7K US, including other little things that will pop up, and thus be prepared to negotiate selling price of a 355 w/o 30K servicing DOWN which will encounter huge resistance by the seller of course.

Regarding price, look around a lot, get a PPI, and try to buy in fall/winter. I've seen a 20K spread, depending on season. When it's hot, the 355 is hot and the prices are hot. When it's cold, the 355 is in the garage, and the prices become entirely soft.

Wish I'd taken my own advice. I bought hot, paid hot, got nailed above and beyond my assumed cost of the 30K. You can do better.

Good luck. Paul

 

Roscoe,
I have been a many times over bmw owner and several modified to mid 400 hp. They are great cars and I miss having one. I have been thinking hard about picking up a low miles e39 m5 as I just dont care for the new design or the idrive. Either way, the 355 is a much more fulfilling and engrossing experience. There are lots of good deals to be had and surely fchatters in your area who can help you fly right in your search. The 355 is a wonderful car and a timeless and very thrilling design.
If you are small, the lotus is a cool car but at 6'3", I just don't fit in it comfortably.
I have a porsche and it has been the recepient of over 60k in mods, is thrilling and very fun to drive, but when I want the whole visceral experience, its the ferrari that comes out to play. Just my opinion though. I also prefer the 993tt for various reasons. In the end, its just not as special an experience, though the car may be faster, repaired more economically etc, etc.
I was parked next to a new corvette the other day. I love the z06 at the track and think they are a good value, but believe me, the corvette became invisible to all who walked by with the 355 next to it. If you are looking for a driver-only car-situation and need to park it and not worry etc, go for the vette without a doubt. But if your needs are not quite as practically based, I don't think you will ever regret the choice of a 355. Good luck, John