f430 vs. California

in your particular situation - of the info you have given us so far - i would say go for the california. it will be a good intro to ferrari ownership and wont require you to give up too much from a regular car, especially for everyday useage.

 

Not sure of the US market but your budget of USD 165 000 might not quite stretch to any but the earliest California

To find out more about ownership spend some time reading in the California section

 

I think the California has an incredible mix of unique, well-executed features.

You can use it everyday so long as you have a decent place to park it at point B. Doesn't attract too much attention and those who do notice tend to be more knowledgeable. Doesn't wake up the neighbours unless you feel like it very happy to tool along at even 40 kph (25 mph), makes wonderful noises with no risk of a ticket.

It's designed from the ground up both as a coupe and a convertible so no rattles or cowl shake issues I can detect; looks and drives great while performing either function. The roof goes down completely so there's nothing blocking the rear view. Stated 0-62 mph 3.8 sec performance (3.9 sec for pre-2013 models) in a DD car is nothing short of astounding. 0-60 for the 2013 is probably around 3.6 secs - not that far from 458 Spider performance. Even has backseats that don't mess up the look of the car.

What to watch for is the fact that your stated budget puts you at the bottom of current used offerings with nothing left to sort out issues or add desirable accessories. People sell their cars for reasons, some of which are less desirable than others. Prices tend to be higher early and mid-season for convertibles, and a lot lower in November. Do your research and enjoy your new ride.

 

Try one???? Why stop there? These Ferrari Dealers want to sell cars. They will probably have you drive everything they have in stock and most likely up sell you. Let us know how the test driving goes. I would earmark an entire day so you can drive the crap out of everything they throw at you.

 

Dude, if I was in the market for a street-going Ferrari, I would consider a California, if the price were right.

Dale

 

To me the California is truly one of the greatest true every day Ferraris or sports cars ever built. I don't think that the budget is the same though.

 

Dude, the point is that I don't believe the "Partner" is any more interested in buying a California that I am. Actually way less. I think I'll run down to my local dealor and take a test drive.