New Maclaren or used 458. Beauty factor

The answer for this type of car is how you feel when driving them. The numbers dont matter that much since most of the driving will be on the road and most people would be slower in a 650S versus a good driver in a 458 on a track.

I havent driven a Mclaren, only a 458 and thought it was sensational. The steering reminded me of the Enzo which i loved. The only thing i didnt like was that it was as stiff as i wanted (The one i drove didnt have the racing seats..could be why..). Other than that, it is a perfect combination of beauty (It is much more beautiful than a Mp4 or 650S), sound (It does sound much better also) and driving sensation (Here i cant compare.).

 

One thing I've learned from evolutionary studies is humans are stupidly programmable. And, thus, I'm not surprised that I, along with many of my fellows, have been programmed to think Ferrari is best, gotta have it at all costs, gettin one before I die. Certainly applies to me, but now that I have had a few, I've started to look around at value-for-money with an urge to climb out of 'the box' do something different. I'm now thinking GTR Nismo and the McLaren 650. Both fabulous cars. But, man alive is it ever difficult to let go of that Ferrari programming that started when I was a kid. Ferrari isn't the best, not by a longshot but Ferrari programming is indeed the best IMHO. So my advice is step outside of the box and go for it.

 

Well said. I feel your pain

Fortunately there are soon to be many alternatives....the new offerings for Porsche are looking promising. Look at the new 991 GT3 RS...stunning.

 

650S looks promising


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The 458 is already too fast for the road. The MP4s are way too fast. Both are fantastic sports cars. However, most would agree that the Ferrari is better looking/sounding and has a more responsive engine, all of which enhance the entire experience. The 458's ride is not as comfortable as the MP4's, but passenger room and ingress/egress are much better. Other than being a die-hard McLaren fan, it's surprising that one would choose the MP4 unless it's a simple matter of having the faster car and/or wanting something different. Some are fortunate enough to own both.

 

I own both 458 and 12c Spider. They are both unique cars. 12c is very fast and has the unique turbo sounds. Blow valves, the sound of turbos spooling up. Very cool. Also, the carbon tub makes 12c very stiff. The 458 is sexy beautiful and fast, and sounds heavenly. The interior is wonderful in 458. I mean it is hard to beat Itlians when it comes to leather and suits. Drive both and make your choice. Can't go wrong either way.
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One more pic.
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Drive a good example of both. Heck throw in a GT-R.

The MP4 is the best, fastest street car I've ever driven. For a lot of reasons, I'm pretty close to getting a 458 despite that. A lot of people dismiss the MP4 without driving one and that's an error. It is a mind blowing car.

If it has wheels and a motor I probably like it!

 

Had a Scuderia, bought an MP4, and now into a 458.
The McLaren is an absolute dream to drive. Fast as hell and handles like no other.
Haven't had a chance to really drive the 458 (due to horrible Winter weather here) much at all yet, but the looks and sound, not to mention how driving a Ferrari makes you (me) feel got me back in the saddle again!

 

Agreed. Exactly how I'd describe them!

 

I love my 12C! It is very fast and handles like nothing else I've ever driven. In fairness, I have never driven a 458. I do like the looks of the 458 and the interiors are beyond nice. Drive both before you make your decision. You will get a 12C for alot less. 458's are holding their value, it seems.

 

Nice garage! Lamborghini too!

 

The 12C reminds me of a Toyota MR2. I can't help it.

 

McLarens are excellent cars. However, as with Porsches, my mind analyzes while my heart seldom beats faster. As a practical matter few "race" these cars.. As a result, "lap times" are less important than how you feel when the garage door opens. At the end of the day, if you feel better buying a Honda, do it. If I were to be honest, whether it be why I am with my wife or choose the cars I buy, the answer would be because "it feels good". Best

 

/thread

 

and so ends the 2,458,348 post of the Mc 12c vs the 458 debate.

 

+458. Completely emotional purchase. The 458 Spider is exhilarating to drive, even on a daily basis. 4 years of driving my Carrera S never produced the same emotion. It was like handling a surgical scalpel. Precise, effective and sterile.

 

Only to have the 650S vs. 458 Italia/Speciale to follow! lol

 

With your 40,000+ posts, I cannot believe you will not succumb to temptation again and again, so look forward to post scripts (lol). Best

 

Perfectly surmised, indeed it's how you feel and it feels good driving a Ferrari even though there are some excellent alternatives around.
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I loved the MR2s looks back in the day.

 

Owning a GTR and a 458 I will say there is absolutely no comparison.....the Nissan is definitely an incredible bang for the buck but it's starting to creep up.....as far as the Nismo goes there will only be 52 brought to the US for 2015....if a dealer gets one it will only be one unit...many are spoken for and most will end up on ebay to the highest bidder.....at an MSRP of $150K my guess is you will see some sell for close to $200K.....those that pay to play could be let down if they up the production for 2016....and back to my first statement, the Nissan is a fun car but it doesn't compare to the feel of the 458....

 

Thank you!

 

A picture is worth a thousand words. Best