Hello all, newbie here, need help deciding....

Hi, I have owned my 84 308 GTS since 1991, I love the car, she only has 33K. I was considering selling it and buying a 95-96 F355 or a 86-87 TR. But after doing some research, I am not sure. See, I can do the timing belt replacement in my garage in a weekend every 5 years, the parts cost me about $225, for all the belts. Then every other time I do the tensioners. If I buy one of the other cars I will not be able to do this because it is so much more work, I will have to take it to the dealer. I don't drive the car a whole lot, but I want to make sure that when I do, she is always ready to go. What would you do if you were in my shoes?
Thanks

 

I would keep the 308 QV as Im keeping my 84 GTS QV. They are easy enough to work on, parts are cheaper than most, very reliable, and they are classic, the electronics part of it is not as complicated as the newer model, and the K-Jetronics is so simple and cheap to maintain, handles well and looks gorgeous too. What more can you ask.

 

I think Mike's right, although it depends on why you want a 355 or TR. Either one requires engine removal for a major service, and parts prices are quite a bit more.

You have to decide if the power and looks (although some people like the 308/328 more than the 355) are worth the maintenance $$. I'm kind of in the same boat. My 328 has been phenomenal, but I've been toying with the TR idea for a couple of months. But the 308/328 are kind of a unique opportunity to own a 2-seater Ferrari road car that won't drain the checking account. Once they go away, I'm not sure we'll see anything like them again. So, I'm extremely reluctant to let mine go.

Also, the targa top is something I really enjoy. It would be hard to give that up. The 355 Spider is somewhat maintenance-intensive with its complicated top, and the TR doesn't offer an open-air option.

 

Thanks, that is kind of the direction I was thimnking also,Now if I could only win the Lottery and have them all...........

 

two very different cars. i would recommend driving both before you decide.

 

My dad has a TR. AWSOME car, but have not driven a F355 yet......

 

TR's drive like a truck if you ask me. The 355 is a great car. I used to drive my 355 all over. It's a good daily driver. Make sure you get a 6 speed though. I think the whole belt replacement thing is a little over done on ferrari's. I bet if push came to shove, those belts would have no problem going 30K or 50K miles as long as you keep an eye them. If I recall the belts on the 355 correctly, they look like they could tow a battleship. Of course, if one did let go, the repair bill would be $$$

Ray