So here's my question: Should I order my California with the best of the new technology with the 7 speed twin clutch? Should I opt for the fastest shifting transmission Ferrari's ever built, with perfect downshift blips, etc.? Or should I wait an additional six months (and perhaps save $20k) for the traditional 3 pedal car? Should I opt for the older technology that allows me to be more involved with the drive, allow me to hone my heel-toe braking, etc? Good problems to have. I won't have to let my dealer know for a little while yet. He already has a LONG list of people for the California and I'm at the top of the list
My vote goes for the traditional manual. I think they are much more fun to drive on the street and are more involving. Good luck on the new car!
Congrats on being at the top of the list! I don't know how much you will save on a three pedal car. 20K would be nice but I doubt they will discount it that much. And you might have to wait a long time. I would get the car ASAP and then if you want to trade it in later for the manual you will probably make a little profit too!
I've been having the same debate. But, my feeling is that the dual clutch is the way to go for this car. What I'm waiting for the rest of the options list.
First of all: congrats on your upcoming stablemate.. I have a question: how does one get on the top of the list? I always thought it was reserved for Ferrari's best customers.. but your profile only shows a Ferrari 360 in the "Wanted Cars" section... ? Either you haven't updated your profile yet, or you may be paying a hefty premium over MSRP? thanks in advance for the info! ~shahedc .
Do NOT get a California. It's that simple... ugly in my opinion. You want a Ferrari that has latest technology and looks kick ass? Get a 599.
I for one love the california,carsleuth that is YOUR opinion,obvioulsy others like it and others dont.You cant say "dont buy it".Many will buy it,and do you think the california is going to kill ferrari?no it will not.The 599 is not cheap,so you cant get off saying buy a 599..especially for a kid like yourself to say that to an adult who can afford a ferrari.my 2 cents lol. i have loved the california since the beginning.. black on black with yellow stitching on the black leather. shields and yellow calipers. chrome ball-pollished challenge rims. i dont know how anyone could pass on that..would love to see it done also... --chris
i would do black on black silver stitching, blacked out or smoked rims from the factory, yellow caliper and shield
It's a long story. Suffice is to say that I talked to some people about the car before the name was even known. I found that a new dealership was opening where I have a residence. I talked to the new Sales Manager... he didn't even have a list yet or even know the name of the car yet. He promised to start a list with me and he has held to his word! And he guarantees me MSRP.
If you want "pure" driver involvement... no new car lives up to the claim unless you have a full fledged race car. I want a comfortable touring car to compliment my existing cars. BTW: Don't remember asking your opinion on that question. You have no understanding of my current situation or motivation for the California.
I might be speaking out of turn here, but I don't see why a request for a manual should require some extended waiting time. Perhaps that is said to discourage the choice of the manual; but Ferrari has always happily built whatever is requested by the customer. That said, I think you should go with the new technology and opt for the new tranny. I recommend getting a different Ferrari with a manual in order to have the fun you are looking for...
It's official......Pap says twin clutch. You have no choice to make now, your decision was made for you.
Google is your friend.. Google Search: http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=dual+clutch Best results: How Stuff Works http://auto.howstuffworks.com/dual-clutch-transmission.htm Wikipedia http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Twin-clutch_gearbox ~shahedc .
I'm going for twin clutch. I just don't see the purpose of this car as warranting a 6MT. It's more for cruising and touring. But, as with anything, it's your money and you should get whatever pushes your buttons. I'm on the list, and excited about the car. I'm getting the 7speed.
Get the traditional shifter. Be sure to also get the hand crank starter, drum brakes and wooden wheels with bias ply tires. That way you can really maximize the driver involvement you seem to crave. There may be a steam engine option available too.
There hasn't really been an ugly Ferrari since the 400i really. Also I bet a lot of people will be changing there minds once they see the California in person. I already am in LOVE with the California.
I would choose the twin clutch given my intended use for such a car: cruising, semi-DD, dinner out, etc.
Whoever thinks the California is ugly needs to keep their opinion to themselves. Stop bashing other people just because they like it and want to order one. For example "Dont get a California, get a 599"...there is a pretty big gap there...and they are also completely different cars. I will state my opinion even though it may not change your desicion. Stick with the California and get the dual clutch. The California is more of a cruiser car rather then a hardcore sports car.
If I was lucky enough like yourself to be on the list (and of course to have the means to make such a purchase!), I would go for the standard manual. There is just something about shifting your own gears. This would make the car a great all-around Ferrari. It is a beautiful coupe, an even move beautiful convertible with real all-weather capability, and still an involving sports car due to the 6-speed manual. For all those who want a car to cruise to the the trendy bistro with minimal effort and with the sole intention of "looking good", get a Bentley! Good luck on the purchase!