What would you do? Sell M's for 355? | FerrariChat

What would you do? Sell M's for 355?

Discussion in '348/355' started by loxx, Aug 11, 2015.

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  1. loxx

    loxx Rookie

    Nov 30, 2014
    12
    Northeast USA
    Full Name:
    Chris Gregg
    Hello F355 owners. I have been thinking about purchasing an F355 with manual trans for a little while now and have a question or two for you guys.

    I currently have 8 cars. This is obviously not very practical without a large space to store them in, and the idea of downsizing a bit is starting to make sense. I really love variety in the cars I own and drive, but I don't drive them all that often. I don't care too much about all-out power. I have that quite well taken care of in another car anyhow. Rather, I appreciate the experience of driving in general. I love the sights, smells, and especially sound of it all, and there is no better sound to my ear than a high-winding V8.

    So here's the catch. I'd have to sell my E30 M3 and my E39 M5 to fund an F355. Both of the M cars really offer unique traits that make them wonderful driving experiences. However, I suspect the 355 would pretty much cover all of the basis the other two do from a driving standpoint. Obviously it wouldn't offer the utility of either, but I have that base covered elsewhere too :)

    So what would you do?

    Am I going to miss the F355 boat if I wait too long to get into one? The M5 has been holding it's value quite well and the M3 has been appreciating for me nicely, although the market has softened a bit. I don't expect any Ferrari to be an investment, especially with maintenance factored in, but I feel like they may be "worthwhile" to have in a few more years and if I don't make the jump into the pool now they may be out of reach or I may end up just paying a lot more! I also wonder if the M3 would be the better money-maker over the long term, and it'd be such a shame to get rid of. They're wonderful cars!

    I'd be looking to spend about $65k or les s for one with recent major and good history. I am open to all models. I think I'd prefer a B, but I can see the advantages of spyder ownership (even better sound!) and GTS would be the middle ground. The only thing I can't do is an F1 trans. I'd rather drive a prius :p

    Oh, and I've been thinking it would be great if I could meet up with an owner to get a feel for the ownership/driving experience. I feel like that would help make the decision much easier.

    Here are a few pictures as a thanks for reading and responding

    The M5 has 80k miles on it (high for Ferrari, but low-ish for a bimmer haha) and is factory fresh. What a best of a sedan.

    [​IMG]

    The M3 is all original and stock. It's a pretty nice drive, but definitely a driver more than a collector.

    [​IMG]

    (you guys can provide the 355 pictures ;) )
     
  2. nsx2F355

    nsx2F355 Formula Junior

    Mar 12, 2013
    708
    SLC
    Full Name:
    Tony
    Do it, but 65k with fresh major may be tough. 3 yrs in I'm too in love with mine too part
     
  3. chris1866

    chris1866 Formula Junior

    Mar 14, 2005
    559
    Atlanta
    Full Name:
    Chris
    Agreed, I don't think you will be disappointed.
    I am a big bimmer fan (I race an e36 m3 in BMW club racing) and have driven the e39 M5 and e30 M3. Both great cars, but the 355 is on a different level in terms of driving excitement.
    You won't touch a clean, no-stories 3-pedal GTS or Berlinetta for 65k, but could find a nice spider in that range.

    Good luck!
     
  4. 2MS

    2MS Formula Junior
    Owner Silver Subscribed

    Oct 5, 2004
    342
    Bay Area, CA
    Full Name:
    Mark
    Nice pics and welcome.

    As an owner of both the F355 and E39 M5 I can say they are both excellent cars in their own right.

    The F355 is one of the best examples to come out of Maranello. Owning one and driving it is an experience every man should try to attain.

    But, if you get the Ferrari make sure you have another fun car. The F355 (or any F-car) is NOT a bimmer on many levels. So, make sure you balance your stable well.

    Enjoy the search and chime in with pics when the cavallino is home.
     
  5. lotusk

    lotusk Formula 3

    Nov 3, 2003
    1,840
    London UK
    Please...

    Do not show any more photos of those uber ugly german things on a 355 forum.

    Show some class and if possible taste.....

    Get rid of 'em
    The 355 offers sooooo much more
     
  6. malex

    malex Formula 3
    Silver Subscribed

    Dec 5, 2007
    1,246
    FL
    Agreed. In today's market, $65k for a 6 spd w/recent major will be challenging at best if op's target is a good, solid car.

    Loxx - Not for anything, but you might consider a 348. A well-sorted, late model year 348 with a recent major by a reputable tech might be eye opening. Or set your sights closer to $70k+ for the 355 berlinetta. Good luck with your search/decision!
     
  7. RaginBull

    RaginBull Formula Junior

    Oct 24, 2006
    996
    Bay Area, CA
    Full Name:
    Darryl
    #7 RaginBull, Aug 11, 2015
    Last edited by a moderator: Sep 7, 2017
    I've owned an E30 MTech II Full Package, E30 Mtech II Appearance Package, E36 M3, E46 M3 and several other Bimmers. After 7 months of ownership and experience, I wouldn't trade my Ferrari even if someone offered all of those Bimmers including your E30 M3 and M5.

    There is ABSOLUTELY nothing like owning an FCar. It will literally change your life. How many times do you plan on living? It's why I traded in my 911 and Boxster for my 348. Check my license plate :)
    Image Unavailable, Please Login
     
  8. INTMD8

    INTMD8 F1 Veteran
    Owner Silver Subscribed

    Jun 10, 2007
    6,766
    Lake Villa IL
    Come on man, you have to like that E30 even a little bit!

    I love, LOVE the 355 but there's a lot of other cars that are awesome as well.
     
  9. emac

    emac Formula Junior
    Silver Subscribed

    Sep 14, 2014
    851
    upstate SC
    Full Name:
    ernest
    I have owned many BMW's over the last 30 years and the e39 m5 was one of the best driving cars I ever owned. Totally different than the 355. They don't compare.

    Since you have enjoyed the BMW's, take a chance and try something different. My only car regret was selling a mint 88 M5 with 49K miles to fund the e39 m5. I wish I still had that car. Otherwise, I really never look back after selling something.

    Go for it.
     
  10. Redlyne_mr2

    Redlyne_mr2 Formula Junior

    Aug 5, 2009
    470
    Calgary, Alberta
    Full Name:
    Ryan D
    Ive owned tons of different Ms including a 1m, the 355 is in a league of its own, i don't miss my bmws at all.
     
  11. 8500rpm

    8500rpm Formula Junior

    May 20, 2014
    546
    San Francisco Bay
    Full Name:
    Chan
    Isn't the E30 market crazy right now? If you love the car, keep it and consider selling one of the other 5 cars?

    The E39 you can always buy again later on if you really miss it.

    What if you end up not liking the F355 as much as expected? Sell it, and you will now have ticked that Ferrari box. I doubt US cars will ever go below $60k again for a clean history and good service records, but the cars with asking prices approaching $100k are just sitting at dealers.

    Another variable is Spider vs. Berlinetta/GTS. In the US, Spiders are more common than in Europe and generally command lower values.
     
  12. tres55

    tres55 F1 Rookie
    Rossa Subscribed

    Sep 18, 2012
    3,572
    Canada
    I would love an E39 M5. :) PM me price?
     
  13. 4rePhill

    4rePhill F1 Veteran

    Oct 18, 2009
    8,254
    Worcester, England
    Full Name:
    Phill J
    All it takes is another World wide recession, a serious fuel crisis due to war or terrorist activities, new environmental legislation being introduced that stops these cars being used on the road ever again, etc., etc.

    "Never say never again!" as the saying goes!
     
  14. Prancinghorse17

    Prancinghorse17 Karting

    Oct 14, 2012
    118
    CFL
    Decisions decisions. And a nice one to have. I have a low mileage E46 m3 and a 95 355GTS, which probably compare a bit closer than your e39 m5. All three of these M cars are wonderful fun, with the e46 perhaps costing the least with regard to maintenance. If you do find a well-sorted 355, I think you'll be pleasantly surprised that maintenance is comparable to your m5 other than the 355 major service.

    I actually believe 355s are becoming investment cars as most folks do on this forum. All that aside, as cool as your M cars are, a couple shifts through a gated 355 is all you'll need to convince yourself. It'll be slightly quicker than your m5 but the fun factor would be next level.

    Well sorted Bs and GTS cars are running closer to 80 on the lowish side. Spiders are crawling up ever so slightly, but now is definitely the time to buy and enjoy!
     
  15. 4respy

    4respy Formula Junior

    Aug 15, 2014
    601
    los angeles
    Full Name:
    steve
    #15 4respy, Aug 12, 2015
    Last edited: Aug 12, 2015
    You would rather drive a Prius Than a 355 f1 ..LoL Stick with what you have then..
     
  16. lotusk

    lotusk Formula 3

    Nov 3, 2003
    1,840
    London UK
    Nope
     
  17. loxx

    loxx Rookie

    Nov 30, 2014
    12
    Northeast USA
    Full Name:
    Chris Gregg
    Ha, I didn't expect any hate for the M3, but I do understand its not everyone's taste. I didn't love them at first, but have learned to appreciate their function over form looks. Every body panel except the hood on that car is unique and designed specifically for racing use. You don't find too many homologation specials like that anymore.

    Anyway, I sort of figured the responses would go this way! Of course the Ferrari is going to be better than those two combined. I just need a push in the right direction.

    I would still have some automotive variety after this. I'd still have a euro 635csi modified for a much more engaging driving experience than stock (and not much can match the beauty and pure mechanical bliss that car has). I also have two audi 200 20v. One sedan and one avant. The sedan has an engine which is currently being built for about 900 awhp at 10000 rpm. Previously had more like 500. Also, I just sold a Cayenne Turbo S. That was my first real introduction to expensive maintenance. Two front brake rotors cost $1600 alone.

    I'd get rid of other vehicles, but none are worth what the m3 and m5 are.

    I knew the F1 comment would cause a stir... But I really do mean it. I'm a diehard manual supporter. A car like an f355 would he useless to me without a manual trans. I'd drive the 215hp 635csi instead in a heartbeat. Sorry! But of course to each his own. Obviously there are plenty of people out there who feel differently, so don't be offended :)

    Thank you very much for all of your replies. I'll probably make a move whenever my industry makes a turn back up (oilfield) but may try to make arrangements to sell the cars in the meantime!
     
  18. phrogs

    phrogs F1 Veteran
    Silver Subscribed

    Apr 13, 2004
    7,346
    Kzoo Michigan
    yeah I really don't like the F1 shiftier but ill never be seen if a ****ing Prius.

    The fact is everyone has gone to Flappy paddles, because well the people with the money buying new cars wanted them order them and bought them more than the other ones, now after almost 20 years it has shifted into no more gated cars.

    We can't change the past but if your dead set on a stick be prepared to pay for it.

    I honestly think there are enough 355's that there shouldn't be a premium on the shifter.

    Some want a F1 others want a Stick. Go out and find a car you like and can afford.


    As for oil field turn up Gas went up $.60 here in one day. Aint that just f-ing special.
     
  19. ShineKen

    ShineKen F1 World Champ
    Silver Subscribed

    Aug 3, 2007
    19,892
    Southern California
    Full Name:
    Nostradamus
    I'd try to keep the e30 m3 if I could. That's probably the only BMW I would buy.
     
  20. cuneo

    cuneo Formula 3
    Silver Subscribed

    Nov 20, 2006
    2,469
    Yes, never should have sold mine, really fun cars.
     
  21. 4respy

    4respy Formula Junior

    Aug 15, 2014
    601
    los angeles
    Full Name:
    steve
    Yeah, I have to admit the Prius and the 635 are much more exhilarating cars to drive and much better looking let alone the power sound and steering feel of that Prius than a 355 F1..Im going to the Toyota dealer today..I cant wait!!!!!.Im very excited about this!!!
     
  22. loxx

    loxx Rookie

    Nov 30, 2014
    12
    Northeast USA
    Full Name:
    Chris Gregg
    Ha, I mean no offense to you guys who are into the flappy paddle way of life, but I get absolutely no joy from it. As I said, to each his own, but anything I care to drive will never... EVER come without a clutch and manual shifter.

    That's a topic for another thread though!

    You guys talking about the M3 have got me second guessing it, but I do think 355 ownership would make up for it... I'll put the feelers out and see what happens!

    Oh and I would consider a 348, but I think the 355 is really the pinnacle of what I'm looking for in a car. Simple, V8, manual trans, and one hell of a driving experience. I could afford a 360 or 430. Hell, I drove a 458 and loved it (despite the paddles!), but I honestly think... No, I know I'd enjoy 355 ownership more.

    It's the same reason I like my "old" bimmers. They just don't make em like they used to.
     
  23. tres55

    tres55 F1 Rookie
    Rossa Subscribed

    Sep 18, 2012
    3,572
    Canada
    I was all about gated 355's until I drove an F1. Just saying...
     
  24. ShineKen

    ShineKen F1 World Champ
    Silver Subscribed

    Aug 3, 2007
    19,892
    Southern California
    Full Name:
    Nostradamus
    I wish my Scud came with a manual. Just saying... :)
     
  25. 4respy

    4respy Formula Junior

    Aug 15, 2014
    601
    los angeles
    Full Name:
    steve
    #25 4respy, Aug 13, 2015
    Last edited: Aug 13, 2015
    You dont get it..Do you??,,The comments your making have No offense..They are just ignorant comments.. Dont ASSUME Im not into manual shift cars as well!!!!!!!!!!!!!!..Nothing like going through the gears in my 991 T..in that car shifting is addictive!!..I have had both Manual and F1 in 355s..I like both, but if it was like shifting the Porsche or even my gated Diablo SE30 then maybe a different story..Nice gearbox for a manual,but certainly not great..Each has their own advantages and disadvantages and are different
     

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