Thinking of Buying a 550 | Page 2 | FerrariChat

Thinking of Buying a 550

Discussion in '456/550/575' started by sgtpeper, Jul 21, 2019.

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  1. 308 GTB

    308 GTB F1 World Champ
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    Barry Wolinsky
    Taking this to the extreme, My F355 Challenge was hit numerous times when it raced in the Challenge Series. It even wound up on its roof at Lime Rock Park. When damaged, it was sent to a Factory-authorized coachwork center for repairs and paint and was back on the track for its next scheduled race. My car is five shades of yellow...maybe six.


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  2. 308 GTB

    308 GTB F1 World Champ
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    #27 308 GTB, Jul 22, 2019
    Last edited: Jul 22, 2019
    It seems that the 30,000 mile rule holds true with most older Ferraris too. Many try to restrict use of their cars to keep under that threshold. When not driven regularly, Ferraris suffer. They like and need to be driven regularly.

    When I bought my 550, I purposely bought a car with higher mileage. My car, with routine maintenance, drives perfectly with now over 75,000 miles of use.
     
  3. sgtpeper

    sgtpeper Formula Junior

    May 4, 2004
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    That makes a lot of sense. I actually sold my '74 Alfa Spider because I wasn't driving it much after I bought the Porsche. As such, it started to deteriorate. Having grown up around Italian and English cars, it definitely makes sense to make sure they're driven.
     
  4. 308 GTB

    308 GTB F1 World Champ
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    As far as how the 550 drives, it's got more horsepower and torque than you'll ever use in day-to-day city and highway driving. It handles superbly and is quite nimble for a GT car. Indeed, it has an identity crisis and doesn't know if it's a GT or sports car. It's not much larger than my F355 Challenge and is neutrally-balanced by comparison. On the highway, you easily lose sensation of speed and you can get up to 80 mph before you realize it. On a big track like Daytona, I've been able to let it reach its high speed capabilities. It literally takes my breath away when I loosen its reins...


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    Find one that you like and leave the paint gauge at home. Consider appropriate mileage based on its model year which reflects regular frequent driving. Ask for service records showing regular servicing. Don't let chips and blemishes disturb you. The 550 chips easily. You can put 3M clear stuff on it and it will get chipped beyond the extent of the protective sheet. It'll love taunting you like that. :)
     
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  5. 308 GTB

    308 GTB F1 World Champ
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    Most cars will deteriorate if left stagnant and a Ferrari is no exception.

    Good luck with your search. This forum can be a great resource for any information you might need.
     
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  6. DOWORKFCAR

    DOWORKFCAR Formula Junior

    Oct 15, 2016
    303
    I have the mid engine Ferrari itch...so mine is on the market...we will see...no rush...I truly love the 550.
     
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  7. 308 GTB

    308 GTB F1 World Champ
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    Yellow's a killer color!
     
  8. NE550

    NE550 Formula Junior

    Mar 23, 2017
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    While I understand the appeal of mid-engine Ferraris, they are a dime a dozen (relatively speaking). But a Maranello is a rare sight anywhere and one of the best driving Ferraris from any era. Just my opinion, but I'd hang on to it if I were you. Or maybe at least wait for the market to improve before selling.
     
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  9. sgtpeper

    sgtpeper Formula Junior

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  10. motts

    motts Karting

    Sep 1, 2015
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    I know exactly how you are going to feel:). I don’t have a favorite. But my nephew came to visit from NY drove all my cars he definitely preferred the 550. 550 turns other people heads 996TTS turns your own head. Neither is for sale.

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