I have a manual f430 that I recently purchased, with no prior experience with the car it was very easy to complete several services (oil/gear oil/brake flush ect). I had this exact debate before deciding on the manual as driver engagement in a manual is impossible to duplicate. The value of the manual will continue to increase as they’re much fewer, the 458 will likely plateau in value. You can fine the 458 in all build combinations for sale, but when you find a manual F430 you like don’t hesitate to buy that unicorn. With that said, I do plan to buy a 458, in the future, as more of a daily. There is no wrong choice here.
Thanks for all the input and sharing! Currently there are no 430 manuals in the local market. I'm considering getting the transmission converted to manual. Although not sure how much it would devalue the car in the future. Also, if I go for the 458, I'm wondering how much DIY maintenance can I do by myself ? Someone mentioned that the 458 is not as DIY-able as the 430.
Not sure your location but conversion manual f430 are holing value well, not sure how they will do in the future. There are several factory manuals for sale but the premium over F1 is typically 50k or more. DIY maintenance for the F430 saves you a lot of money! Cost under 150 in parts to do a simple oil change and took me under an hour including warming the car. The 30k mile service cost you under 600 in parts, might be a little more with fluids, and will take a few hours. Don’t forget the cost of beer! You’ll save thousands.
Both are great cars, make sure you test drive both of them. One of them will speak to you evermore so seductively... If it's the pure appreciation you're looking for, I would have to agree with folks here, go with the 6-speed 430.