f430 or 458

+1 on tail lights , don't like that Ferrari went with the single lights on their new line up.

Other than that , its a big step up , if you like more electronic controls

 

I own a 430. It is a great car but the 458 looks so much better. Everyone knows performance is better also but that is meaningless to me since I don't track the car.

Personal preference is the answer to your query.

 

I owned a 2006 430 for 3 and a half years. Now own a 2011 458.

The 458:
- feels slightly smaller on the inside.
- feels like you are sitting a little closer to the front tires.
- accelerates even faster than my 430 did.
- has more cornering grip than my 430 had.
- sits a little lower (you can sense it when you get in & out of driver's seat).
- has no control stalks behind the steering wheel (all is done with buttons on the hub of the steering wheel).
- has a computerized dash display that overlays speedo, gps, and radio screens.
- driver's left foot must be placed slightly to the right due to the fender well intruding on the floor space.
- the brakes have tremendous stopping power (the g forces can be surprising for sudden strong braking situations on public roads).

Here is a pic of my car. You can see more pics of it in the "My Garage" link on this post.
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I say resculpt the tail to where you like it. All will be envious if it's done well and you'll have a one off.

 

I have to confess that I never warmed up to the 360/430 body style. But the 458 is a thng of emense beauty and a step back towards "boy racer" from "gentalman GT".

Now if we coud just shoehorn a 458 motor into an 355..............

 

You think the tail looks bad? What about the front front?I love everything about the 458 except the front. I know the "wings" are functional but they look so ugly.

 

I wouldnt trade until the 458 spider is out. Stick with open tops.

 

If I had the choice I would trade up, but no 6 speed manual is a turn off. I rather keep my F430 and buy another car with the money/difference between both cars.

 

I always hated Ferraris with single tail lights per side.

Taz
Terry Phillips
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