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Looking for friendly 348,F355 advice

Discussion in '348/355' started by AHelton84, Oct 1, 2010.

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  1. AHelton84

    AHelton84 Rookie

    Sep 30, 2010
    1
    Tulsa, OK
    Full Name:
    Adam L. Helton
    #1 AHelton84, Oct 1, 2010
    Last edited: Oct 1, 2010
    Hello all, I’m Adam. I’m brand new to the forum, so please give me some time to make stupid mistakes and probably say very stupid things before I am a little more educated. Before I get to my question, I also want to say that I truly admire and respect all of you for not only achieving a goal I’ve been shooting for my whole life, but also for staying loyal to the cars that still have a little Enzo Ferrari spirit with them. I’m probably being far too premature for this, but I take Ferrari very seriously and want to understand completely, what I am getting into. I have had the fortunate privilege, on several occasions, to drive many different models of Ferrari, from the 246 GT to the Enzo, as well as other brands of exotics. If you read my profile you’ll see that I used to own a 1978 Lotus Esprit S1. But through all of my experiences, none spoke to me so clearly then when I interacted with the 348 or F355. The 348 was my first and seems to be under my skin still. I have also spent a lot of time around F355’s but unfortunately very little time in them, (only idling sadly.) I believe the F355 is the last true spirited, driver-mans Ferrari, or at least that’s what I have come to understand. So finally, the question, which one? Ideally I would like to drive them as much as possible, but I’m aware that it becomes pricey, with regards to maintenance. I live in Tulsa, Oklahoma and believe it or not we have a fairly decent circuit course, not too far. Because I believe that a race track is where a Ferrari belongs primarily, I’d be more interested in having a car more tuned for the track that I can still drive home. And when I say still drive home I don’t mean stop at sonic on the way home, I mean straight home. For that reason I’m interested specifically in a 348 Serie Speciale or a Challenge that’s not too stripped out. Then the big problem is the F355’s are about the same price right now, and that may not change for some time. Hopefully some of you are beginning to see my dilemma. Any advice for a newb?
     
  2. Mitch Alsup

    Mitch Alsup F1 Veteran

    Nov 4, 2003
    9,741
    #2 Mitch Alsup, Oct 1, 2010
    Set your goal of finding a car in "about" a year--don't try to shorten the journey just to put something n the garage--wait for the right car (and records).
    Set your price range for a 348 and set your price range for a F355
    See a lot of them
    Buy the first one that fits your price range, and is in sweet condition.

    {I argue this to myself:: "When you can write and endorse the check with no hint of remorse, you are ready."}
     
  3. full_garage

    full_garage Formula 3
    Owner

    Feb 15, 2010
    2,241
    Sarasota Florida
    Full Name:
    Jay
    #3 full_garage, Oct 1, 2010
    I'll agree with Mitch except for one factor- Price.

    Having driven F-cars for 20+ years I can safely say purchase price means NOTHING- especially on an older, devalued car that will most assuredly need regular maintenance. I got a ridiculous deal on my car but I would gladly pay a LOT more for a car that I KNEW was low mileage, clean and well maintained. It's short money on the purchase side.

    You need to fall in love with the car- because you will probably spend many times it's value in repairs and maintenance over the years.

    For me it's all about passion- I saw a yellow 355 with challenge grille and I had to have one...it was that simple.

    Do keep in mind even the early 348's are nearly 20 year old cars... the newest 348 is going to be more than 15 years old, and the newest 355 is still and 11 year old car.

    The only way to judge is to get some seat time- And I've given this advice to a few people who have thanked me- If you are in a Ferrari-less area- take a trip- Southern California or Southern Florida is a nice place to visit, and you should be able to drive at least a dozen cars in each area. It's also critically important that you get a great, not good, Ferrari-specific mechanic within a reasonable distance from your home- and become good friends. Even if you're going to do most of the work yourself- it's always nice to have a local shop with ALL the tools and ALL the knowledge... Cause these cars are only fun when they're on the road, not on a lift.
     
  4. PAP 348

    PAP 348 Ten Time F1 World Champ
    Lifetime Rossa Owner

    Dec 10, 2005
    100,232
    Mount Isa, Australia
    Full Name:
    Pap
    #4 PAP 348, Oct 1, 2010
    Welcome to FerrariChat Adam. :):)
     

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