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355 Advice

Discussion in '348/355' started by October102010, Jan 8, 2013.

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  1. October102010

    October102010 Rookie

    Dec 20, 2010
    2
    #1 October102010, Jan 8, 2013
    Hi I am searching for my first Ferrari and the 355 berlinetta coupe has caught my eye. I would like to gain some knowledge on what/how to make sure I buy a good one. Are there issues I should be concerned about with particular model years? Are the later years better than the early ones? I've also heard maintenance costs are high especially when time to change the timing chain--how often does this have to be done? Would appreciate any advice you can share. Thanks a lot.
     
  2. greyboxer

    greyboxer F1 World Champ

    Dec 8, 2004
    12,714
    South East
    Full Name:
    Jimmie
    #2 greyboxer, Jan 8, 2013
    There is a huge amount of information already here covering all of your points - try spending hours reading existing threads and then come back with any specific unanswered questions

    You will also find folk here more co-operative if you fill out your profile a little

    Also look at www.the355.com
     
  3. October102010

    October102010 Rookie

    Dec 20, 2010
    2
    #3 October102010, Jan 8, 2013
    Thanks for sharing the link to that site. It's a good source of information.
     
  4. Mitch Alsup

    Mitch Alsup F1 Veteran

    Nov 4, 2003
    9,744
    #4 Mitch Alsup, Jan 8, 2013
    Are there issues I should be concerned about with particular model years?

    There are a number of factory updates, you should be able to determin if these updates have been 'applied' to the vehicle in question. Generally, well cared for Ferraries have these updates applied durring major services.

    Are the later years better than the early ones? Many of us believe that the 95 is the best version (more power) a few believe that VF1 transmissions are better and make up for the lack of power. There are a few more options in the later years, and several components were upgraded (certain interrior components in the transmission, the throwout bearing and system.) But overal it is at best a wash.

    I've also heard maintenance costs are high especially when time to change the timing chain--how often does this have to be done?

    High: compared to a Toyota, yes, certainly. High compared to a Rolls Royce, no not really. High compared to Porsche, only a little.
     

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