First or Last?

The first VIN's usually represent the most pure visual expression of the model. Ferrari seems to add stuff and muss up the design as they evolve the model over time.

But the last VIN's usually represent all the mechanical corrections and updates that they discover during the production run.

So pick what you like and go with that.

-F

 

You covered me!

 

Neither

 

Heavily depends on model and its importance to the brand's history, but as a general rule I'd prefer the last.

Kind regards,

Nuno.

 

I suppose I'm a philistine, but I don't care about that. I prefer Ferraris that have rare and beautiful specifications. For example, Rosso Corsa is common for a lot of Ferrari models, but there were only fifteen Rosso Corsa 456's in North America, so that's what I got. Same with the sunroof 360's, there are only 22 stateside.

 

Exactly this. That's why we went for a Cali with a rare color combo.
T

 

I've only owned 2 Ferraris ('89 328 and '03 360) and have always preferred a later model (if not the last VIN or model year) bec of the mechanical corrections and updates.

 

This is a very good point. For example, there were five different cooling system updates in the 456/456M, and so the '00/'01 cars are more desirable (Yes, there were '02/'03 cars manufactured, but they are so rare I've never even seen one for sale). With the 360, there was a chassis update from the '99 spec, so the '00 and later cars have an edge. You have to learn about the model you want to buy.

 

I would agree with the general sentiment here. Having a very late VIN means you have allowed a small manufacturer (Ferrari, still) to continue its development of the model past launch and to the best developed version of that particular car.

There is a general counter argument that says that by the time any manufacturer is producing a late VIN of a model their focus is actually on its successor. I don't really agree with this, but it's worth stating.

I also agree that the earliest cars are sometimes the purest of a model, design-wise. And for collectors first/prototypes have a significance that last cars don't. Though I don't share that sentiment - these are the least developed of any particular model.

 

Last

 

Couldn't care less about the numbers.
But IF the last represents some valuable corrections/enhancements, then that's what I'd want.

 

As a collector; first
As a driver; last

If I can only choose one; First.
Business before pleasure

 

neither, its irrelevant.