Gated 6 SPD vs F-1

Here is the same question once again. I have a 2008 599GTB with an F-1.
A gated 6 spd with the same options, color and interior is becoming available to me.

Had a 550 for 7-8 years, 348 many years, 330 for 7-8 years, 308 for 8-9 years and loved the Ferrari manual boxes with all of their quirks. The 308 would not shift into some gears until fully warmed up. Survived it all along with other standard trans cars.

Question: trade or keep the F-1? Have read a lot of comments about how great the F-1 is in the 599, but...

Any 6spd owner impressions would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

Jack

 

Jack- Try these from a search of 599 manual:

http://www.ferrarichat.com/forum/612-599/336915-official-599gtb-manual-transmission-thread-last-breed.html

http://www.ferrarichat.com/forum/612-599/367669-599-manual-transmission-myth.html

 

I have a gated 6-speed F430 and love it. Three reasons to go for the gated 599 are:
-- The pleasure and economic advantage of a really rare bird, the last of its kind.
-- More involving than F1, even if not quite as quick.
-- Bullet proof. The only thing you will need to do is replace the clutch when it is worn, but there will be no very expensive, unpleasant surprises.

 

If you dont want it I may be inetrested, please pass on car to me.

 

Test drive it. If you like it, buy it.

Definitely a keeper for a number of years. Last of the manual V12's...

 

I have a 6 speed. Its amazing and rare as 599's go. There were only 33 imported to the USA.

Buy it and enjoy. You can always sell it down the road if its not for you.

 

Thanks for the Information and opinions. Still in limbo with a great 599

 

Does anyone have a gated 6 spd 599 in Texas?

Would appreciate the opportunity to see it.

Thanks,

Jack

 

Jack- What about the one coming available? Another state? Considering rarity, sounds like a good deal to me.

 

Taz,

Yes, it is far from Texas which means time that I do not have to use right now.

Any real impressions or serious advice helps, but I am inclined to make the deal. The problem is that my car is well sorted and a joy. The second problem is that I really have always enjoyed a manual (3 pedal) car the most.

Rumors say that the car isn't a good 6 spd car, but I wonder about the driving abilities of the authors of such statements. I've had F cars since about 1981 and have always had a learning curve then great enjoyment from each car.

My 599 really revs quickly. This could be problem in a manual, but perhaps learning the car overcomes the problem.

Thanks for the comments.

More are solicited.

Thanks,

Jack

 

Manual 599 is awful. No other way to say it. Impossible to match revs because of the quick revving and every gear goes crunch no matter what you do. Definitely drive before you buy.

 

There used to be a black 6MT in Dallas. I'm not sure if it's still there.

 

Zackspeed, I respectfully disagree with your perspective on the manual 599. I've had one for a year and its a great to drive. The only time its difficult to shift is when its cold and second gear only. I've had zero problems moving through the gears at high Revs.

 

Brad- Funny thing is, all the owners seem to really enjoy the three pedal 599s. The peanut gallery holds the only critics.

Like anything else, you have to learn how to do it correctly.

 

Bingo.

Check all the threads here on F-Chat : owners/drivers love them; those who have never experienced them, criticize them.

What does that tell you?

No question : some finesse is required when pulling-out. The engine revs so effortlessly (due to light-weight flywheel, in part), it's easy to over-rev. That same light-weight rotating mass, means it's easy to load-down the engine. Not hard, by any stretch ... just a bit of skill, that's all

 

Jeff,

Have you driven a gated 6spd? Is there one in the Austin area that I can observe?

Thanks,

Jack
San Antonio

 

599's are much better in F1 - the gated gearbox is definitely and after thought from the factory and it can be difficult to get them to shift smoothly - I have driven several and they all seem awkward - In my opinion a 430 6 speed is a fantastic car where you experience that true connection with the car but a 599 is much better as an F1 car - Ultimately you need to drive the car yourself and make your own decisions

 

How could you have driven several when there are so few around?

 

Sestri there were only 33 imported to the US. Like Taz I'm having a difficult believing you driven 3. Do you currently own a 599?