360-vs-430 yearly scheduled maintenance and potential issues.

It sounds like you really need to do more research & spend some time learning from all the existing threads here

 

Belts are not that expensive to change. If the car is driven regularly the cost per mile is not a big expense. We also know the chains in the 430 will need to be replaced, what is uncertain yet because of the age of the fleet is when that will be. We do know it will be an expensive operation when it does happen.

The real difference in the 2 systems at this point is, belts cost money when the car is parked in your garage, chains do not.


I would base my buying decision on other factors.

 

Both 360 and F430 have proven themselves highly reliable and extremely pleasurable to own when properly maintained and regularly driven. I know my '02 F1 coupe certainly has been. I agree the belts vs. chains is a non-issue and you would be much better served to look for whichever tickles your fancey with the colors and options you really want at a price you can afford. Current condition and service history should be much more influential in your decision than belts or chains.

 

Both are great cars but which one do you REALLY like?

I was in your position a year or so ago. I chose the 430. Interior was a big reason but not only one.

Drive both and decide.

 

One other consideration yo may want ot think about is whether you want a car with the f1 transmission or a stick.

The f1 tranmission in the 430 is far superior to the equivalent in the 360.

 

430 is a much better handling car and I think a lot safer. A couple of "oh shlt's" at speed would certainly convince you of that.