Newer 430s vs. older

There have been posts that swear you really need to buy an 08 or better. Some say the changes were insignificant. While others say that there is a big difference in drivability. I'm sure others will have much more to add.

 

This question has been asked many times but I'll try to give you the short version (because there really isn't much difference).

I own an 08.

The biggest difference is that the 08 and 09's came with Carbon Ceramic brakes standard. Earlier, they were an option about 18 grand I believe. It was a pretty rare option as few 05's to 07's have them.

The plus: CCB's are great stopping, look super, last a very long time in normal driving, and don't have brake dust

The minus: When you need to replace them they are expensive, stopping at low speeds can be a bit "grabby".

I know my 08 has some differences in the black box and the F-1 software. Those that have driven 08's say that it works better, however I don't believe it's terribly significant.

The only other major changes were some additonal options. The most obvious is the rear carbon fibre grill (which is also on the Scud's). I believe that became available in 07.

Aside from that and fixing some issues that were coming up under warranty on earlier models, there is little change between the years.

The last big difference is that some late 07's and all 08's and 09's are still under warranty. Spiders had a mandatory 4 year warranty (the fourth year was paid by the owner) where as coupes came with the standard 3 year. So, later models are still under warranty which does make some difference to your purchasing decision.

 

Not many major changes to the car until 2008. CCBrakes became standard in that year. Besides that I think the radio unit was changed too.

 

Newer vs older....

Warranty remaining might be a big thing...

I starts looking at 05's then quickly started looking at 06's. Before long I was spending all my time searching for late model 07's and 08's. Why? I don't really know. But Ended up getting a november built 07 that sold new years eve.

I never heard driving differences in the 07 vs the 08 or 09. I did hear that f1's were changed some in 07,

Wishin I had ccb breaks for the break dust. Standard isn't bad... But...

 

4RE- You can figure it out for yourself by doing some research in the parts manuals on Ricambi's web site. Here is an example of the changes made on the 575M. You could do your fellow 430 owners a favor by doing a similar document. Parts were updated by Assembly Number, not VIN/Serial Number. As each order (VIN) moved to the assembly line, it was assigned a sequential Assembly Number. Some VINs waited for parts, paint, leather, etc, so the VINs were not sequential with the Assembly Numbers. Assembly Numbers were assigned without regard to model type, either, so 430s were mixed with 612s and 599s in the sequential Assembly Numbers.

These documents show the non-sequential VIN/Serial Number and the major changes. You, or someone else could do the same for the 430.

Taz
Terry Phillips
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besides the CCBs after 08' the biggest difference between my 05 and 07 is the interior plastic and leather quality.
The 05s get sticky and prone to scratches since 2 years ago and the 07 are better and have more supple leather. get the 07 or later if u can, it is nicer. But 05 is cheaper than the 07 having the same performance.
also the operations of every switch, handle and controls have less resistant or looser than the 07 or later models.

 

If a warranty is the main difference, spend $4k on a certification for an '05 and you will have 12 months of warranty (renewable until it is 8 years old). Then drive it a ton during that 12 months. It seems like good insurance against any issues that might come up and a less expensive way to own an amazing car and really enjoy it. Good luck to you!

 

In addition to what has been mentioned, MY'07 included the integrated battery maintainer and a couple of new options:

1. Alcantara seats, doors, headliner
2. CF intake manifold

MY08 included TPMS standard and more CF options (engine vents, etc.)

 

+1. For '07 I believe.

 

My Aussie F430 F1 (Nov 07) had pretty much every accessory ticked to be included at POS but somehow missed on the CCB.

The normal brakes leave brake dust deposits like there is no tomorrow which is a huge PITA.
Every drive requires a clean to look good.
Rob.

 

I cannot begin to tell you how nice it is not to have brake dust.

 

I think at one point in 08 they updated the exhaust manifolds, also there is noticeable improvement with F1 calibration.

 

I would love to not have brake dust on my '07 coupe... such a pain in the butt to keep clean...

 

I have CCBs on the 430 and I am amazed at the lack of dust even after prolonged driving, nothing at all. My TT with steel brakes needs constant cleaning.