Is the 458 spider worth the $100,000 over the F430 spider?

I was struggling with this, but I cant get myself to trade my 430 and spend another ~$100K more. I really love both cars and believe I will miss the rawness of my car. I have added headers, S-Line and a tune so my car makes about 10% more power than a stock 430 so I am not that far off from a 458 power-wise. However as sexy as the 458 is, I love the more aggressive lines of the 430. For me I will probably keep the 430 and add an FF. My extra $150K is better spent this way.

 

Some great replies here, covering all angles of it.

 

I am not as expert as many here but:
* I owned the 430 spider and 458 spider (and 328 GTSi QV a long time ago)
* I have owned many porsches, mercedes

I loved the 430 when I got it ... it handled so much better than any car I'd previously owned. I regretted selling it ...

Then I bought a 458 spider. I was truly shocked. It was such a superior car in every way. The finish quality had taken a huge leap up. The only negatives to my mind are loss of the magnificent engine viewing panel and the more targa like convertible

If you can afford it, you will not regret the 458. I cannot get excited enough to spend the extra money (approx 100k again) to move to the 488, but I do not regret spending the additional money (actually way more than 100k) on the 458

 

I think for the money difference I would go 430 and that was the question. The analog aspect of the 430 is appealing as is the fact that it is more of a convertible experience(more open).This doesn't sound like a money to burn situation so why not keep some money in your pocket. On the personal preference side I like to see an analog dash and not digital displays.
458 is a beautiful car but 100,000 dollars has a timeless beauty as well.

 

You don't need to revisit in 10 years to know which is more desirable.

The answer is obvious, and the answer will never change.

 

Keep in mind, the 430 was the last Ferrari with a cloth top. That's what will make it very desirable in the future.

 

I have a 430 manual tranny and love it. My car is so fast and handles so nicely, why pay $100K more for a quieter/turbo that is slightly faster yet?
Phil

 

In my humble opinion the 458 is so much more beautiful. Ferrari missed on design between the 355 and 458. 360 and 430 didn't have that same wow factor. 360 not edgy enough and the 430 was odd in the lines and front bumper/nose is too blocky/high. Something isn't quite right. 458 is absolutely worth the money if you can afford it. Sound, handling, service and that amazing design! One of the most beautiful cars they ever made.

 

My understanding is that the 458 spider has a disconcerting amount of cowl shake and that would be a deal breaker for me. I have a 08 430 spider and love it, for me it has the perfect balance of power and handling and you don't feel like the car is doing all the work. My 550 gives me the same feeling, and for me they're both plenty fast for public roads. I also have a 700hp Dinan tuned BWM M6 Gran Coupe competition package so I can also say that there is a point where more speed does not equal more fun.

 

Good thing this is just your opinion

 

Judging by the poll's result so far, F458Spider isn't alone in his stance.

Kind regards,

Nuno.

 

He is with his comments about the 360 and 430 missing on design. The 458 is one of the most beautiful cars ever designed but that doesnt take away from the 360 and 430.

 

Some would say that it isn't worth any more than a Ford Focus. If your only objective is to get from A to B then the cheapest reliable car that gets you there is the best for YOU. I just don't happen to be one of those A to B people but both of my folks were A to B types and my Dad's last car that he owned before passing was a 1996 Toyota. I tried to up grade him to either a new Toyota or a better car. His comment was the '96 Toyota was all he needed so why spend any more money on a car.

So back to the question is the 458 worth more than the F430? The real answer is only if YOU think it is and no one else can answer that question for you. Totally subjective question on what You want in a car. IMHO