F430 Spyder or California | FerrariChat

F430 Spyder or California

Discussion in '360/430' started by Rockstar08, Feb 7, 2011.

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  1. Rockstar08

    Rockstar08 Rookie

    Dec 12, 2010
    21
    Hello All,
    Looking for opinions or advice on deciding which car to purchase? I love the looks of both cars and it would not be a garage queen. This would also be my first Ferrari purchase as I have been a Porsche guy for a long time and now feel the need to step up. I am recently divorced as well so the added extra attention would most likely help the ego a little so that I wouldn't mind either.

    So getting back to the decision, I realize the California is the better daily driver but the F430 I think has more raw sex appeal per say. It really is a toss up for me since I really do love the looks of both cars. So please let all your opinions and wisdom fly, would love to hear something that I haven't thought of yet!

    I look forward to posting more after I find the right car also.
     
  2. ELP_JC

    ELP_JC Formula 3

    Dec 13, 2008
    1,264
    #2 ELP_JC, Feb 8, 2011
    Last edited: Feb 8, 2011
    I haven't driven a California, but can make a few other comments.
    First, if you want a manual, it'd have to be a 430.
    Second, you can buy a like-new 430 spider much cheaper than a California... which might help if your ex took you to the cleaners :).
    And third, either one will bring you plenty of attention.
    Will let the others chime in on the driving experience. Good luck.
     
  3. rgm35

    rgm35 Formula Junior
    Silver Subscribed

    Feb 25, 2010
    252
    Valley Forge, Naples
    Full Name:
    Rick
    If a DD then, for me, the California. I'm considering one for my wife right now. Keep in mind you are considering 2 totally different types of cars designed for different purposes so you need to be absolutely certain of your intended use. My advice is to drive both for an extended period. One of them will speak to you.

    As respects manual versus F1 I could understand why someone would go manual versus the older versions of the F1. But having just driven the new F1 in the California I can fully understand why Ferrari may never again build a manual transmission. The new F1 is simply mind blowing. It may be true that it shifts faster than you can blink. And it is oh so smooth.

    Good luck either way.
     
  4. HH11

    HH11 F1 Rookie
    Rossa Subscribed

    Sep 4, 2010
    3,344
    +1. It depends on the use. The new DSG boxes are so smooth I can see why they made the switch from F1. The Cali will be a more relaxed drive while the 430 will be an event.
     
  5. Russell996

    Russell996 Formula 3

    Sep 24, 2010
    2,263
    New Forest UK
    Full Name:
    Russell
    You can now spec a manual box on the California according to the online configurator. Not many do!
     
  6. DriveAfterDark

    DriveAfterDark F1 Veteran

    Jan 1, 2007
    9,148
    Norway
    So Ferrari are taking back "never manual again" statement??
     
  7. rgm35

    rgm35 Formula Junior
    Silver Subscribed

    Feb 25, 2010
    252
    Valley Forge, Naples
    Full Name:
    Rick
    Surprising given the speed and smoothness in which the new paddle shifters work. But I would imagine some people still want that involvement only a manual can provide. The dealer I was discussing the California with never mentioned it though.

    Hmmmmm.....maybe the manual will now become the expensive option.
     
  8. HH11

    HH11 F1 Rookie
    Rossa Subscribed

    Sep 4, 2010
    3,344
    #8 HH11, Feb 8, 2011
    Last edited: Feb 8, 2011
    I thought the same way when I found out. I think that they said that in regards to the 458 and the cars from then on...FF and whatever may come next.

    And I meant to say DCT on my last post. I think there is a difference:) One being an auto based and the other with 2 clutches.
     
  9. blackbolt22

    blackbolt22 F1 Veteran
    Silver Subscribed

    Sep 25, 2007
    5,808
    Boca Raton, FL
    Full Name:
    Mr. Anderson
    The cars are very different. Go drive both. Your decision will be easy afterwards.
     
  10. Rockstar08

    Rockstar08 Rookie

    Dec 12, 2010
    21
    Yes agrees I probably need to spend more than 5 minutes in both which is what I intend to do. I live in Orange County, Ca so I don't think I want a manual transmission so it either the twin clutch auto manual in the Cali or the F1 in the F430. Normal maintenance cost don't bother me since I will drive either one as much as I wish.

    Although if I decide to go with the F430 I would most likely get a low mileage 06-07 model which means that I could also by a V8 Vantage possibly as well but I haven't driven one of those yet. I know its not an all out performance car but man it sure is a beautiful car.
     
  11. sixcarbs

    sixcarbs F1 World Champ
    Silver Subscribed

    Dec 19, 2004
    10,473
    SF
    That's great news. Where is it on the configurator? I can't seem to find it. Thanks
     
  12. Finitele

    Finitele Formula 3

    Sep 26, 2007
    1,379
    DBC
    Full Name:
    DIR
    If for a woman, then the California. It is not a Ferrari from Enzo's idea
     

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