http://www.collectorcartraderonline.com/addetaildriver.html?75632426 If someone here is looking for a 308 this car looks like a bargain, however I thought I would let everyone know about my experience with the dealer that has it listed. I bought a 308 from this dealer last spring. The add was similar to this one, describing the wonderful condition and a recent major service. When I spoke to the salesman he said the car had a major service last summer. Since they were not near a Ferrari dealer they said they could do the PPI. After it was completed they told me it passed the inspection and every thing was perfect and sent me a copy of the report. When the car arrived it wouldnt start so we had to jump-start it to get it off of the transport truck. When starting the car the belts would squeal, if it was driven over five miles it would start to overheat, the parking brake didnt work and the AC didnt work. After all of these problems I decided to have it inspected by a Ferrari dealer. The Ferrari dealer said the last major service was done at least 15 years ago. The total cost for the Ferrari dealer to complete the way past due major service and fix all of the problems was $9,900 and it took almost a month. I now have $52,000 invested in my 308qv. Be careful when buying a Ferrari and especially one from this dealer.
Sorry to hear that. I get the impression you didn't test-drive the car prior to purchase, is that true? You didn't try a lawsuit against the seller as he has obviusly lied to you? Atleast you have a 308 in excellent condition now, right? /Peter
It's unfortunate that you had the experience you did, but I would certainly consider a lawsuit to cover your unexpected costs. The PPI paperwork you received and testimony of the Ferrari dealer is proof enough. I hope that the experience has not spoiled your feelings towards Ferrari's in the future! Good luck and do what you can to recover the money spent.
Unfortunate to say the least....I have heard numerous stories such as yours. One must always be careful about purchasing a car "long distance" and not being able to have the car independantly inspected, and looked over by yourself. To be honest, $9900 is pretty cheap to get that much stuff done on your car. You still made out okay. You were obviously misled, but I have never bought a Ferrari where "everything worked"...just seems to be the nature of the beast with these cars. I hope the car is giving you enjoyment now. Dave
Thanks to everyone that replied. The car runs great and I am very happy with it now since everything has been repaired and the service is up to date. Before I bought my 308 I was planning on buying a TR or a F355 but at the last minute I decided to get my favorite Ferrari, the 308. So overall I have spent less than planned and have a good running car. I have been to busy lately to take legal action against the dealer but I will consider that option when I have more time. I didnt mean for it to seem like I was complaining about my experience, I just wanted to warn people that are considering buying a Ferrari to get them inspected at a Ferrari dealer or an independent Ferrari specialist before buying.
I actually think that your thread is very educational especially to those who put to much trust on the dealers. I hope you are not put off by this bad experience because once you have driven your 'perfectly repaired' QV I think you would be too busy enjoying rather than worrying about that con-dealer. Enjoyyyyyyyyyy.
I think these guys had an 86 (or so) TR that they wanted $45K for a couple of months ago. I guess I'm glad I didn't put too much time into investigating the car. BTW, isn't Cauley (?) Ferrari in MI...maybe Bloomfield hills? Anyway, I wonder how far away Cauley is from this place...