New with Querry/ The big Call

First Post/New Register:

Hi I'm new to the board only found it a few weeks ago and have spent the better part of a year studying the Ferrari world from a-far (non-owner) and trying to research my first purchase of which I would like to consumate on or about next month. Traveling from time to time to a dealer or exotic broker takes a weekend. At least 5 hours each way from where I call home (Louisville, KY). That's a stretch for me due to time constraints w/ obligations. I have had a few opportunities to test drive only the F355 and I've committed to making some kind of decision w/in the next 30 days to purchase. However, I really want to settle on the model and then travel to drive/inspect specific examples for consideration.

That being the case I pose the following: while I'm trying to shed some new light on what otherwise has appeared to be a "covered subject" on FerrariChat... I, nevertheless, like other enthusiasts find several models of interest but seek your insight into refining my decision. I have found the question of entry into Ferrari something that you (owners) are truly the only ones capable of answering honestly and forthright.

I have contemplated the following models:

a manual (prefer m over F1 and have been advised to stay away from 1st generation paddle) 355 (1995-1999)

The 550 (1998-2000)

512tr (1982-1985)

360 (1999-2000)

and 456 manual any year (but don't care for the lines).

That being said, I've deduced the following from comments from others:

355 - nimble, quick, practical, sexy and user friendly

512 - brutal, robust, bold, sexy, a handful

456 - subdued, tranquil yet lethal, bland and understated

550 - stealthy, abit of both worlds, sleek, perhaps the best, timeless

360 - F1 gearing strong, materials vastly improved, docile and not as playful

One might ask....well which do you like? Frankly, I like a bit of it all. However, I had pretty much settled my entry car would be the 355. Only to speak w/ a consignment broker in Florida yesterday who said..."Stay away from the 355 you'll regret it and your wallet will always be open." "There trash." "The 512tr is trash." "The 550 or 360 is the only way to go." I know, cover your ears, close your eyes. Hate to repeat it. So now I'm confused. Don't know if this guy is on the fringe or what. Trying to make an extra buck or what. I thought it prudent to inquire w/ you before I dismiss his comments. After all he had at least (8) 355's he was representing via consignment. So here I am a year later and feeling every bit as confused as I was a year ago. Hell my gut is telling me to go w/ my intuition at this point. What do you think?

So, I wish to put it to you guys. Yes there's a spread of $50k between the models in terms of market prices but I have pretty much decided a great experience out of the box is what I want and if it costs $40k-$50k more to go w/ one model vs. another then so be it. Yet, if I can get in at $80,000 more or less for the first car why not work w/ that and trade up to a 360/550 in a couple of years when my "F-internship" is up.

So, set me straight and I will be only to happy to be speaking to you next month as a new owner from a-near than a-far.

Thanks.....

 

I would like to offer a couple of thoughts.

Looking at the dates you posted next to "512 TR" I am assuming you are talking about a 512 Berlinetta Boxer injected. Boxers are an icon and easily recognizable. It is also a pretty old car. It has virtually no storage space hence doesn't make the best cross country (for traveling) car. I have heard that the cooling system can be challenged in the hotter climates. The Boxer is a 70's design so the brakes and handling should be considered as such. No comparison to a newer car. If it has the metric tires then you will have challenge finding replcements unless you go to Coker Tire. Coker reproduction tires for the Boxer are NOT cheap and they too are an old technology.

If you are considering a TR then here are a few thoughts on those.

It has been recommended to me that a post 1988.5 Testarossa is preferrable due to upgrades. (60 to 80k)

The 512 TR (85 to 115k) was nearly the last incarnation of the series with even more refinements and upgrades. The last version is the 512 M (125k+), limited in numbers and pricey. I believe 1994 is the last year of the series.

If you want "hairy armed" torque off the line the big flat 12 is the way to go. Well taken care of and sorted the 12 is very tough engine. The sound is out of this world with the right exhaust system on it.

If you want a Ferrari that CANNOT BE MISTAKEN for anything but a Ferrari then the TR is it. I honestly don't think Ferrari has produced a car since the TR (aside from the Enzo) that the general public can easily and readily identify as a Ferrari without a doubt.

The 355 is a V8. Screams like an F1 car, is fairly quick and handles better than the Boxer and TR. It is smaller and lighter.

It has some design flaws that can cost a lot of money, melted cats (3k each), defective exhaust diverter valve design (1200.00? dealer fix), exhaust header cracks and blowouts (new headers required-BIG $)

I have heard complaints that the TR is a dated design both inside and out (aren't they all). Also complaints that the 355 interior is kind of cheap looking in spots and has a problem with certain pieces "melting". With that aside, I wouldn't mind having one of those too.

I think the type of driving and use patterns should be a determining factor in which model to buy.


As a 308 owner, and as much as I like the way the car handles, I find that for the type of driving I do I would enjoy the power and size of the TR more. I live a long ways out of town and the TR is more suited for freeway type driving. At 6'2" I find I fit better in TR.

I understand that the 355 is more user friendly and easier to handle in town.

You can always trade up to a 360/550 later.

Thats it for me.

DJ