Opinions on F430 Coupe Options | FerrariChat

Opinions on F430 Coupe Options

Discussion in '360/430' started by amarzano, Jan 12, 2007.

This site may earn a commission from merchant affiliate links, including eBay, Amazon, Skimlinks, and others.

  1. amarzano

    amarzano Karting

    Aug 23, 2005
    80
    SF Bay Area
    Full Name:
    Alex
    Ok - I know these threads have been beat to death - and I swear I planned on going this alone - but I have some things I am on the fence about and thought I would ask for advice..

    I spec'd my 2007 F430 Coupe last week. I ordered a Red/Tan with the following major options:

    F1
    Daytona / Electric Seats
    Leather rear shelf w/ Daytona inserts (lower door leather)
    Leather headliner
    Special Stich
    Challenge Ball Polished Wheels
    Ipod
    Handy Fire

    Here are the ones I have questions about..

    Black Carpet vs. Beige carpet to match the leather

    Challenge Ball Polished Wheels - these are new and I haven't seen ANY photos of the real thing. I am wondering if that might not be too much polish?

    HEATED ELECTRIC seats are called out as an option for 2007. In 2006 there was a HEATED SEATS for $477(?) that didn't actually seem to exist for the USA cars, but this year it's grouped with the ELECTRIC seat for $3700(?). Anyone know if this exists or not? Dealer has gotten no word from the factory.

    Challenge Rear Grill - I love the CF - but more so on darker cars. Is this going to be a big resale item?

    Hi-Fi Stereo. I did not get this as it seems to conflict with the Daytona Inserts (hides the center section under the subs). Does it sound that good? Or is it all ENGINE BABY!! :)


    I have 1 - 2 weeks before I am locked in, so any thoughts would be appreciated..

    Thanks!

    Alex
     
  2. leead1

    leead1 F1 Rookie

    Nov 29, 2006
    2,828
    Florida
    Full Name:
    Lee
    Alex, You have done your home work and made good selcetions in my view.

    My F430 has the stereo upgrade. I know the engine is an awesome sound but every so often the eagles hit the spot.

    I like the lighter carpets. I then bought special black carpet with red piping around the edges and a red prancing horse. I have a post asking what to get with a picture. This is what the forum members suggested and I have been happy with it.

    I cannot talk to the electric seats.

    I did not go for the challenge grill. it was nice on the 360 but not needed on the F430 in my humble view.

    Good luck.

    Lee
     
  3. Nielsq

    Nielsq Karting

    Dec 23, 2006
    245
    NY Metro Area
    Full Name:
    Nielsq
    I'm ordering Red/Cuoio Cpe next Mon. I understand the dilemma very well.
    i think the challenge CF rear grill will be a great asset to the look of the car
    {wider and lower} as well as future value. IMO, not important.
    I have been told by Ferraristi and audiophiles, that Hi-Fi option is not that good. It does obscure view of rear bench which is not cheap.
    I think beige carpet will give a more harmonious feel to the interior cabin.
    Ball- polished challenge wheels,IMHO, are to much bling for this car. I would prefer polished factory wheel or painted factory or painted challenge wheel.
    Are you using stitch 1 or 2? Is it colored? If so, are you using it on dash?
    I think red speedo. on red car is cool. {most have the yellow}

    Lots of luck,
    Niel ( NY)

    PS Is navigation worth it? I think not.
     
  4. racerdj

    racerdj F1 Veteran
    Owner

    Jan 19, 2003
    6,952
    Indianapolis
    Full Name:
    DJS
    If the ball polished wheels are similar to the OEM 5 spoke version, then IMO the challenge version would NOT be too flashy.
     
  5. hardtop

    hardtop F1 World Champ

    Jan 31, 2002
    11,293
    Colorado
    Full Name:
    Dave
    I got black carpets on my red/tan. The brown carpets don't actually match tan leather very well. Black matches the dash and makes it a true two tone interior. I got black seat piping for accent. I skipped the stereo because of the woofers on the shelf looking out of place and taking away any ability to put anything long in the car. I figure if I really want, I can go aftermarket. I also skipped the lower leather option since it is in places that tend to get kicked, nicked, etc. Also, the black carpet firewall offsets the tan seats nicely. I know I am in the minority on the extemnded leather but I just think it is impractical and overpriced, even by Ferrari standards. The headliner is cheap and a no brainer. The first time I cleaned and conditioned the leather, I was really glad I didn't get the extended leather. There is a ton in the car even without it. I would get an aftermarket fire extinguisher which will cost much less and can be mounted to the seat mechanism which is handier than the factory setup. The dealer got me one for about $200 installed. I don't like ball polished wheels, they make me think of pimps in Escalades, but that's just my opinion. The heated seats were not available when I got my car. Women love 'em. If not too much, I would get. I don't like the challenge grill, didn't like it on the 360 either. Dealers would know better if they fetch more money in the aftermarket. I was told by several dealers that the power daytonas and shields are the must haves. After that, it's personal.

    Dave
     
  6. marksp

    marksp Formula Junior

    Jul 10, 2006
    737
    Redmond, WA
    Having recently received my car, here are the options that I wish I had included:

    1. carbon driving zone. The carbon steering wheel is gorgeous
    2. rear challenge grill

    In fact, I still might add the wheel!

    My interior is Cuio (seats, stitching, dash and wheel) with black carpets which works well visually and wears well. I suspect the beige carpets look great initially, and the black wears better over time???
     
  7. Morgie

    Morgie Formula Junior

    May 3, 2005
    435
    SF Bay/Carmel
    1. Black carpets for sure
    2. Seen the wheels and they look GREAT
    3. Heated seats unnecessary
    4. Rear challenge grill is a MUST -- will help resale
    5. HiFi is much better (did not have it in my first F430 - huge difference in my second F430 with it)
    6. Daytona inserts in rear wall is waste of money -- you only see it if you move seat back forward. Use the money for HiFi or grill.
     
  8. amarzano

    amarzano Karting

    Aug 23, 2005
    80
    SF Bay Area
    Full Name:
    Alex
    I opt'ed for stitch 2 in RED for contrast.

    I'm leaning towards beige on the carpet w/ perhaps Black Matts for contrast and wear. Since it looks like the response is about 50/50 - I guess it can work either way..

    I was going with the RED speedo - BUT it doesn't really look RED in the daytime (dark in the sunlight and doesn't really look RED at night with the lights on either..).

    The CF Grill is still a delimia for me. I loved the Challenge grill on the 360 - and love it on black or dark 430's - just haven't gotten to 100% on the Red car - yet..

    On the wheels - that is my concern. Would the ball polish be too much bling on the Challenge wheel..

    Thanks!
    Alex

     
  9. Ferrari 360 CS

    Ferrari 360 CS F1 Veteran

    Dec 4, 2004
    6,851
    Cape Town,SA
    Full Name:
    Jacques
    Good choices but here are a few thoughts..

    Red dial, actually looks very good...very differant to the usual yellow.
    Challenge rear grill in CF also looks good but wouldnt suit the spider but seeing you are speccing a coupe thats not really relevent...

    Pic of challenge grill on 430 coupe.
    http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v59/Ferrari360/parked.jpg

    Carbon fiber driving zone is a must in my opinions, greatly enhances the steering wheel and the paddles look great in carbon.
     
  10. fun-meter

    fun-meter Formula Junior

    Nov 12, 2006
    255
    Kent, UK
    Full Name:
    Lewis
    Personally, I think Black carpets would look better, as F430 interiors look good when theres atleast one other colour to break it all up.
    The yellow speedo looks better in my opinion, and it was mentioned a month ago that the red speedo doesnt glow.
    Go for the Ball polished CS wheels. There was a picture of a F430 Spider from a show on the forum with the new wheels. They dont seem to 'bling' or in your face.
    Rear CF grill looks quite nice, but I cant see any major pro's or con's, so its your choice.
    Stereo upgrade is up to you, but the normal stereo is more and enough in my opinion, and the engine noise is just so nice - You'll enjoy the first tunel you go through (and probably any tunels after that, lol)! :)

    Post pictures of the car when you get it, should look nice by the sounds of it. :)
     
  11. F2003-GA

    F2003-GA F1 World Champ
    Rossa Subscribed

    Nov 2, 2003
    13,346
    Sunbelt
    Full Name:
    Bro
    #11 F2003-GA, Jan 13, 2007
    Last edited by a moderator: Sep 7, 2017
    I've seen both and the standard ball polished wheels look much better.
    Get the tire pressure monitoring system.
    Get diamond pattern stiching in the headliner
    Image Unavailable, Please Login
     
  12. derek a

    derek a Formula Junior

    Sep 17, 2004
    590
    CA OR
    Full Name:
    Derek
    I just took delivery of my car at the end of Dec. For me CCB was a must, looks performance and no brake dust.

    I did not get the rear leather shelf. No one will usually look back there and I prefer the carpet back there

    I also got the Challenge rims no polish
     
  13. Nielsq

    Nielsq Karting

    Dec 23, 2006
    245
    NY Metro Area
    Full Name:
    Nielsq
    Does the diamond stitching have a code or was it special order? What was cost? It looks great!

    Niel
     
  14. Nielsq

    Nielsq Karting

    Dec 23, 2006
    245
    NY Metro Area
    Full Name:
    Nielsq
    just looked again, your's is not 430, looks like 612. This option may not be available on 430.
     
  15. Morgie

    Morgie Formula Junior

    May 3, 2005
    435
    SF Bay/Carmel
    If you are going to get the CCBs (I would not order another F-car without them), get the standard wheels so that the calipers stand out more.

    Before you decide on beige/tan carpets, make sure you see examples of both in person. If you see a car that is older than one year, you will agree on black carpets.

    Since you cannot easily get a challenge grill installed after delivery, I would get it. It cost me 2721.00 and was well worth it. My friends who do not have it regret not ordering it.

    If you want to spend more money, i would definitely get the CF driving zone -- i love my CF steering wheel and think the standard wheel looks cheap in comparison. Make sure you have the CF inserts.

    The reason to get the yellow tach is that it has a fabulous yellow glow at night while the red tach (which seems more burgundy) looks black at night. Also, you will find in this forum that others have commented that it does not have the same degree of contrast and is harded for some to see.

    If you do get colored stitching (red or black), get the special stitching. Diamond stitchin is very optional IMHO but does look nice.

    I love the engine sound as much as anyone, but in stop and go traffic or on a long highway drive a good CD is a must. The HiFi upgrade is wwwaaaaayyyy better than standard and is well worth for the buyer (like me) who is not into aftermarket stereo installationl.
     
  16. amarzano

    amarzano Karting

    Aug 23, 2005
    80
    SF Bay Area
    Full Name:
    Alex
    I think it might be a special request item..
     
  17. amarzano

    amarzano Karting

    Aug 23, 2005
    80
    SF Bay Area
    Full Name:
    Alex
    Morgie -

    What you are saying about the RED tach is exactly what I have heard.

    I have seen some NEW examples of the carpets, but no older examples. Everything looks great when it's brand new! :)

    I have driven a car with the CF wheel and you are right - it is Stunning. I think I might really regret this one - but wow it's almost $5k for the package!

    Challenge grill is still in the air.. Seems a bit tacked on with the light color cars (IMHO) and the poportions are just a bit off.. Let me search the gallery some more..

    Thanks!

    Alex

     
  18. $$$=SPEED

    $$$=SPEED F1 Veteran

    Aug 18, 2004
    5,330
    Portland, Or. USA
    Full Name:
    Depends who's asking

    I am with you 100%. The Challenge rear grill on Red cars, IMO, look great. Worse on dark cars I think. Wish I had that and the CF driving Zone. I think both will be bog for re-sale as well?

    Mike
     
  19. Tarek K.

    Tarek K. F1 World Champ

    Sep 7, 2006
    10,788
    Cairo - Egypt
    Full Name:
    Tarek K.
    #19 Tarek K., Jan 13, 2007
    Last edited by a moderator: Sep 7, 2017
    Get the rear CF challenge grill, it looks much better with it. Both on lighter colors and darker colors. In addition, adding the rear CF challenge grill will give you an advantage in the resale.
    Also, I would order the CF driving zone with the CF steering wheel and CF dash inserts.
    Here is a picture of both rears on red F430s, with and w/o the rear CF challenge grill.
    Image Unavailable, Please Login
     
  20. Nielsq

    Nielsq Karting

    Dec 23, 2006
    245
    NY Metro Area
    Full Name:
    Nielsq
    I agree 100% re:CF rear grill and CF driving zone zone. They will definitely fetch a premium price on resale. more importantly, they gine a hi-tech sporty look. Re: carpets, get tan/beige and get black mats with Ferrari logo or model. This way you can have two varied looks.
     
  21. F2003-GA

    F2003-GA F1 World Champ
    Rossa Subscribed

    Nov 2, 2003
    13,346
    Sunbelt
    Full Name:
    Bro
    Just ask your dealer to call FNA you may get a pleasant surprise.
     
  22. Nielsq

    Nielsq Karting

    Dec 23, 2006
    245
    NY Metro Area
    Full Name:
    Nielsq
    Thanks,
    Niel
     
  23. amarzano

    amarzano Karting

    Aug 23, 2005
    80
    SF Bay Area
    Full Name:
    Alex
    Tarek -

    Thanks! The side by side photos really help! It's amazing how the CF Grill seems to changes the rear dimensions completely.

    Alex

     
  24. Tarek K.

    Tarek K. F1 World Champ

    Sep 7, 2006
    10,788
    Cairo - Egypt
    Full Name:
    Tarek K.
    My pleasure Alex ;). The rear challenge grill gives her wider appearance and a sportier look. Now I want to see your F430 with that challenge grill :).
    I have my 2006 F430 and I am in the process of giving her to her new owner and I only drove her for four months. I am receiving my 2007 F430 by the end of February. The reasons I sold her for a new one, are a few options I would like to have which are the rear CF challenge grill, the interior CF driving zone with CF dash inserts, CF steering wheel and the CC brakes. These are options which improve the F430 dramatically.

    Regards, TK
     
  25. coupe1

    coupe1 Formula 3

    Jan 15, 2007
    1,469
    Singapore
    marksp, what color is your car? The pictures I have seen in this forum of the the cuio interior with carbon driving zone looks great! Do you think a rosa corsa with cuio interior looks good? I havent seen any pics of such a combination yet, and where I lived, the dealer tells me no one has ordered such a combo yet? Btw, cuio, what color is that? tan? Would appreciate any feedback from other forumers too... cheers!
     

Share This Page