458 - My Ferrari Buying Experience - Strike One and a Home Run... | FerrariChat

458 My Ferrari Buying Experience - Strike One and a Home Run...

Discussion in '458 Italia/488/F8' started by Rexcat458, Nov 16, 2020.

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  1. Rexcat458

    Rexcat458 Formula Junior

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    I purchased my first Ferrari about a year ago, well before C-19 appeared. In the Ferrari world, I’m a single grain of sand on an endless beach of much more important Ferrari buyers. I spent more than 30 years as a Mercedes-Benz SonderKlasse buyer...

    When I retired a couple of years ago, I started looking for a Ferrari. I spent months researching different models and I decided on a CPO 458 Italia. I found one at a dealer in another city. At this point, I had never even sat in a 458, much less driven one. When my wife and I arrived at the dealership, we were a few minutes late due to heavy traffic from an accident.

    I introduced myself to the salesman and we chatted about which car I was interested in buying. As we headed over to it at the opposite end of the showroom, he showed me a 488. It was stunning, but I wanted a NA V8 458. The heart wants what the heart wants... As we walked over to it, I distinctly heard angels singing... :), but the drivers seat was well forward (I’m a tall bloke) and I knew I could not sit normally in a seat that far forward.

    The salesman gave me the key so I could move the seat further back. Blimey, the battery was completely dead! My wife was comfy in the passenger seat, whilst I felt like a sardine. I asked if they could do anything else to get the seat moved back and all I heard was “crickets.”

    As I sat and pondered what a sardine must feel like, my wife asked me if I was still keen to buy it. I said not unless I can ensure my long legs fit. (I was not concerned about test driving it). The salesman never tried to find another way to move the seat and he really seemed uninterested IMHO, so we finally left.

    I must say that I was surprised that nothing was done to move the seat and make the sale. I was ready to sign the papers for the asking price and call the bank to authorise the EFT but, I was left wanting.

    That night, I decided to keep looking and I found another similar CPO car 900 miles away. After verifying it was still available the next morning, I put down a deposit to hold it. I headed to the airport a couple of days later. The second Ferrari dealer was very accommodating and made me feel welcome in every way.

    They offered me a test drive and I bought the car and drove it home an hour or so later. The funds had been wired the day before I arrived, so the paperwork was a snap. My drive home from the dealership was an epic 878 mile trip and my first time to ever drive a Ferrari... What an epic ride!!! Second time at bat with a dealer, I scored a home run!

    After my experience at the first dealer, I decided to have my 458 serviced at a dealer that’s three hours away from me. They are always professional in every way and I get invited to special events, even though I bought my Ferrari from another dealer. They provide exemplary service on my 458 and they’ve always exceeded my expectations.

    Whilst I’m disappointed at the first dealer, the second dealer was awesome! I’m so happy to have my 2015 458 Italia! It is such an awesome car and it makes me smile like the Joker every time I get in and hit the twisty bits! Now to find an 812 SF to fill out my stable, my 458 needs a friend. Gotta love those V-12 Prancing Horses!

    Cheers!

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    Last edited: Nov 16, 2020
  2. wthensler

    wthensler F1 Rookie Silver Subscribed

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    Congrats on your purchase, lovely car and nice retirement present! Unfortunately, like every other brand there are good and not-so-good dealers.

    Those cars don’t like to sit, btw (hint, hint) .
     
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  3. Rexcat458

    Rexcat458 Formula Junior

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    Thanks, I put 5,000 “s-miles “ on her in the last eleven months. It’s a very addictive car!

    Cheers!
     
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  4. Regular Guy 01

    Regular Guy 01 Formula Junior Silver Subscribed

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    I LOVE to read stories like this and see other owners who might not have had great experiences at first but find the cars of their dreams and tell us about it.
    When I was looking, my wife flew across the country and looked at a car in Chicago. I had never driven a Ferrari and I was scared to death of damaging the car. I started it and made my wife think I was in control of the situation. The salesperson asked if I wanted to take it out but I said I was satisfied just hearing it run.
    I was told it didn't have any issues, it was a "no stories" car and CPO'ed so there weren't any worries. Lucky for me, no problems with the car. Bought it right then and had it shipped to the West Coast.
    I don't drive my car much as I have a crazy life where fun driving takes a back seat to everything else. I do enjoy having my 458 in my garage and I hope to have it out more next year when ever I can.
    Congrats on finding your 458 and enjoy the search in finding your 812!!

    Best wishes,
    Gene Greer
     
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  5. Rexcat458

    Rexcat458 Formula Junior

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    Thanks Gene,

    I always enjoy your posts! I also had a few tense moments as I pulled out of the dealers lot for my near eighteen hour straight drive back home.

    It was such an enjoyable drive though and I was very confident in the car a few miles down the road. It’s such an awesome ride. I have been blessed with no issues on my 458 as well.

    It’s the only car I’ve ever owned that I never, ever want to sell. The stars aligned when the 458 was envisioned and the result was nothing short of epic!

    Cheers bruddah!
     
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  6. VelocityTexas

    VelocityTexas Formula Junior Owner Rossa Subscribed

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    The hunt is always a great start to a rewarding find. Everything happens for a reason and your short story proves it out. Job well done. If you're in the north Texas area I hope to meet you at a car event in the near future.
     
  7. Natkingcolebasket69

    Natkingcolebasket69 F1 World Champ

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    Congrats ! Way to enjoy retirement ;)


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
     
  8. IloveGT

    IloveGT Formula 3 BANNED

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    congrats. which one was it, the first dealer?
     
  9. m5shiv

    m5shiv Formula 3 BANNED

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    Remember, that because you had a lousy salesman, doesn't mean the service department is tainted. There are many good guys working hard behind the scenes.
     
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  10. Graz

    Graz Formula 3

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    Bravo! Congratulations and welcome to the addiction. I hope the salesman from your first dealership reads your post and learned something about customer care. I swear many of these dealerships make money by accident. Nothing at all wrong with the Brand. Unfortunately some of those representing it are the problem. Enjoy your 458. It’s an amazing car!
     
  11. Rexcat458

    Rexcat458 Formula Junior

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    Thanks so much! As it turns out, the 458 I ended up buying from the second dealer was newer, it had lower mileage, was better optioned and in my preferred colour combo! Cha-ching!!!

    Therefore, my original faff at trying to buy the first 458 ended up being a blessing in disguise, since that encouraged me to find a much better car in the end.

    It would be great to meet you at an event, as I’m in your neck of the woods occasionally. It’s always a pleasure to meet others who share a passion for the Prancing Horse!

    Cheers!
     
  12. Rexcat458

    Rexcat458 Formula Junior

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    Thanks so much for the kind words! I have found out that’s it true what they say about being retired... You’re busier than when you were working. Kinda funny, but oh so true!

    Cheers!
     
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  13. Rexcat458

    Rexcat458 Formula Junior

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    Thanks so much! I was in sales for 42 years before I retired. I would classify myself as a slam dunk buyer - ready to buy, no haggling over the price, bank waiting for routing info and I did not want a test drive.

    The only thing I wanted was for them to move the seat back and if my legs fit, Bob’s you’re uncle it’s sold! I have no idea what happened to derail the sale. I had no buying history in the Ferrari world at the time though, which may have been a factor.

    Cheers!
     
  14. Rexcat458

    Rexcat458 Formula Junior

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    Thanks for your comments. You are right and I would never cast everyone in the dealership with a broad brush... That’s why I did not mention the dealers name, or the salesman. The stiff a**ed Brit portion of my DNA would not allow such things...

    With my Benz, I know the mechanic who works on it and I have taken him to lunch several times. He is a good friend to me and I value his professionalism and attention to detail when working on my SonderKlasse Mercedes-Benz cars. Ditto on my service advisor, she is an absolute gem!

    The Ferrari service department at the dealer I’m using for my 458 have exceeded my expectations in every way. :) I am thrilled to be a part of the Ferrari family, even if I’m still a single grain of sand on an endless beach of more important Ferrari buyers. I love my 458!!!

    Cheers!
     
  15. racerdj

    racerdj F1 Veteran Owner

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    Congratulations on a great find! Love the rims!
     
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  16. Rexcat458

    Rexcat458 Formula Junior

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    Thanks so much! They are made by OZ and are available through the Ferrari Collection catalogue. They are mounted with Ferrari Titanium lug bolts.

    Cheers!
     
  17. randkin

    randkin Formula 3 BANNED

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    I have heard this kind of story about Ferrari salesmen before but during my buying experience I found all the Ferrari salesmen very accommodating and helpful, actually far more than I had expected even when I was only in the looking mode.
     
  18. randkin

    randkin Formula 3 BANNED

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    Interestingly enough I just was either a day or hours late on the first 3 cars I was very seriously interested in buying. I finally found a car before it was officially listed (no pictures) but when I contacted the dealer for the build sheet it was exactly what I wanted and immediately put down a deposit pending PPI and pictures. It was the car I ended up buying and have been happy since. “All things come to he who waits”, well at least in some cases.
    Great looking car glad it worked out well for you. The 458 is a favorite model being NA, they all go plenty fast and unless tracking you can’t use nearly all the performance in any event.
     
    Last edited: Nov 17, 2020
  19. Rexcat458

    Rexcat458 Formula Junior

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    Thanks! I left that out because the point of the post was not to name the dealer or the salesman, but to say in general terms, if you have an buying experience at any dealer that does not meet your expectations, you have options.

    I’m not upset at anyone at the first dealer, (they are a great group of folks) just disappointed. However, I found another car and all is well. I would give the first dealer another chance if they had a car I was interested in buying. Anyone can have an off day...

    Cheers!
     
  20. Regular Guy 01

    Regular Guy 01 Formula Junior Silver Subscribed

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    Hi Steve,

    I hope you don't mind my saying that this is a great thread and I have had a great time seeing your views and thoughts through your Ferrari ownership.
    This thread has been a fun read and it helps us members learn about you and your life.
    I have been so impressed with your demeanor and how well you can convey what is on your mind in words. Life experiences really count when you can share them with others so we can all benefit .
    You have shown me that you are a great representation for a Ferrari owner and steward.
    I hope someday that our paths might cross and we can shake your hand. There is always time for a beer or a steak dinner.
    Nothing but props to you !!

    Thanks,
    Gene Greer
     
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  21. Rexcat458

    Rexcat458 Formula Junior

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    Hello Gene,

    I’m sincerely humbled and appreciative of your kind words, but I’m not sure I’m deserving of such high praise. I’m just an average Joe and even when I scrub up, the north end of a south bound mule is much better looking...

    Whilst I’ll never grace the cover of GQ magazine with a mug like mine, writing comes naturally to me. My first magazine article was published in my 20’s, a tribute to my mum. I was also the editor of my local Mercedes-Benz Club newsletter for five years and a member for 32 years.

    When I had my art studio, I wrote regular monthly articles for an international magazine based in London (God Save the Queen) and more than 150 articles about various topics within my medium.

    You’ll find my writing style mixes the Queen’s English, American English and Hawaiian with a casual syntax, unless I’m being graded by my editor. :-o

    I would be honoured to meet you one day Gene! As for the beer and the steaks, I’ll be happy to pick up the cheque, if you pick the place. :)

    Cheers!
     
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  22. Rexcat458

    Rexcat458 Formula Junior

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    Hello again Gene,

    I just noticed your area... I have many fond memories of the PNW. Back in the day when I had hair and was working in my art studio, I demonstrated artistic techniques at convention centres and trade shows all over the U.S. Your area was one of my most favourite shows!

    I was typically out of town for four days a week, for up to 32 weeks a year. It seemed like I spent more time in first class at 35k feet, than I did on the ground... Over the years that I demonstrated, I completed 1,787 demonstrations and I was blessed to meet tens of thousands of great people at the shows.

    Please give your state a great big virtual hug from me, I miss being there and the many close friends I made on my travels in your area.

    Cheers!
     
  23. Regular Guy 01

    Regular Guy 01 Formula Junior Silver Subscribed

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    Hey Steve,

    The PNW is a great place to live and a fun place to play with the Sound and mountains being so close by.
    There are some entertaining roads with interesting sights and attractions along the way.
    Cool that you have been here in your travels and that you have fond memories of our corner of the country.
    If you ever make it back over here I will treat you to that steak dinner. I would enjoy hearing more of your adventures in life.

    I see that you are in Texas, where 'bouts?
    My wife had a company trip in Austin a couple of years ago and loved the town. We rented a car and saw COTA during a Porsche event. What a great venue!!
    We also drove to Waco (Magnolia Farms for the wife) and then down the highway to a bunch of high end outlet stores (one of the best Gucci outlet stores in the country). I remember well how much I loved filling up the tank of our SUV as the cost of gas was so much less than here.
    You have a great state there and we are looking forward to making it back someday.

    Best wishes,
    Gene
     
  24. Rexcat458

    Rexcat458 Formula Junior

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    Hello Gene,

    You live in a very beautiful state for sure!
    Have you ever tried Terminator Stout, brewed by the McMenamins chain of Brewpubs in the Portland area?

    OMG!!! Best tasting dark beer I’ve ever tasted. If you enjoy dark, full flavoured beers, give it a try. It might be available in your neck of the woods in a bottle.

    Texas has some fine twisty roads to enjoy a Ferrari. We call the Austin area the “Hill Country.” It’s a very beautiful part of the state with gentle rolling hills. Alas, many parts of Texas are flat as a board.

    If you get back down here, there are lots of places near Austin to explore a Ferrari as Enzo intended. :) COTA looks like an awesome place, but I’ve only seen it in some YouTube videos. It’s definitely on my list to experience!

    Unfortunately, the only elevation changes around here are when you cross a freeway overpass, or you get in a building elevator... :-o. That’s why we love the Hill Country so much!

    Cheers!
     
  25. Regular Guy 01

    Regular Guy 01 Formula Junior Silver Subscribed

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    Hi Steve,

    Thanks for the recommendation on the beer.
    McMenamins has opened a couple of places up here i the state and one in Tacoma within the last year or two.
    I now plan to visit them to see what all the talk is about.

    The best thing about traveling ( IMHO ) is seeing the beautiful world around us and the great people you meet.
    I am happy to say that you also meet great people on F-Chat.

    Enjoy your weekend,
    Gene
     

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