I'd easily take a 328 over the 348. The 328's styling has aged much more elegantly. I especially like the lines of the GTB.

 

288 GTO or go home.

/thread

 

How much are you looking to spend?

I couldn't get excited enough about the 328, particularly, to stomach the running costs. The 355 would be much more compelling to me. But, I understand the 360s have dramatically lower maintenance costs than the 355. Could you wait a bit to get a 360? With the new 450 coming out in 2010, maybe 360 prices will drop?

What about tiding yourself over with an NSX or Cayman S (which may be more reliable than the 996)?

 

These are probably both good ideas. I'm not convinced 355 prices are going to fall much further in the near future... 360 prices may fall... I mean, the running costs on a 328 are high for majors, but if you pick one up immediately after a major is complete, you've got a bit of time... so perhaps I go for a 328 at first, and then sell and get a 360 a year or two down the road? Hmm...

 

The answer depends on your incomes/liquid assets and financial priorities. Ferraris are my favorite cars, but I couldn't stomach the maint. costs.

Don't think all your costs will be scheduled, as Ferraris break too, and when they do they can break the bank! I've heard enough real-life accounts from 2 Ferrari-owning friends to know that I'm not wealthy enough to comfortably afford one.

Although not having quite the same wow factor, I'd much rather have an NSX than a pre-355 Ferrari of the same vintage.

 

Nothing looks like the 360

 

(Except the 430)


But yes, I agree. The 360 will eventually be in my garage. Coupe versions are down sub 100k... Spyder versions, not so much. I need any Ferrari to be either targa/spyder.

 

Ex. for the headlights, I prefer the 360's styling over the 430's. I wouldn't kick either one out of my garage, though!

 

I say if you can afford one go for it.

Screw it, you only live once.

Yeah you might end up spending tons of money on repairs, but I guess that's part of the Ferrari experience.

Set aside 10K just in case for unexpected repairs for 1 year.

 

Car's value depreciates over time, but maintenance cost won't, and will likely increase. Maintenance cost relative to the car's value will significantly increase overtime. The price of the car itself may be deceptive in a way that it makes you think you can afford it.