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.
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.
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.
+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.
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.
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.
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.