Help - thinking of buying a 328

Many of you can probably remember this feeling, I am thinking about
purchasing my first Ferrari and I am very nervous.

The car would be driven very little throughout the year - as to be expected.

I have been searching the net for guidance but perhaps some previous owners
can help here.

I have a decent income but I am not at all wealthy and would have to stretch
my budget to finance a percent of this car. I am looking at a 1998 328 and I
am looking for some guidance here.

The car is in superb condition and has 9,500 miles on it. Asking price of
$59,000. 5 speed manual. It has already had its 15,000 mile tune up. What
else to I need to know ?

According to the sales guy this car is steel body instead of aluminum (does
that make sense to you guys ?)
What are the advantages/disadvantages ?

HP rating of 270 I believe - seems kinda low. How does it perform ? How does
it handle onramps - skiddsh ?

No power steering or breaks - how do you guys like that ? Every car I have
owned has had PS/PB. Of course they won't let me test drive this car yet.

Is the car somewhat dependable or will I have constant tune-ups and
maintenance ?

I also live in the north with 5 months of snow. Although my garage doesnt
freeze, it isnt heated either.

The auto insurance I checked on - not a problem.

Would a Testarossa be a better choice ?

I could also choose a Corvette/Viper/Lotus

Help please, Is this purchase worth it or problematic ?

Sorry for all the questions, just looking for a friendly previous owner.

Thanks

-Jeff

[F2005...]

Post by
Many of you can probably remember this feeling, I am thinking about
purchasing my first Ferrari and I am very nervous.
The car would be driven very little throughout the year - as to be expected.
I have been searching the net for guidance but perhaps some previous owners
can help here.
I have a decent income but I am not at all wealthy and would have to stretch
my budget to finance a percent of this car. I am looking at a 1998 328

No, you're not.

Post by
and I am looking for some guidance here.
The car is in superb condition and has 9,500 miles on it. Asking price of
$59,000.

GTB or GTS? Sounds high, by about 9K. Check out
www.ferrarimarketletter.com.

Post by
5 speed manual. It has already had its 15,000 mile tune up. What
else to I need to know ?

Tons... Original Ferrari V-8, Keith Bleumel.

Post by
According to the sales guy this car is steel body instead of aluminum (does
that make sense to you guys ?)

Yes.

Post by
What are the advantages/disadvantages ?

It's a body on frame design: None/weight.

Post by
HP rating of 270 I believe - seems kinda low. How does it perform ? How does
it handle onramps - skiddsh ?
No power steering or breaks - how do you guys like that ? Every car I have
owned has had PS/PB.

A 328 should have power brakes, iirc.

Post by
Of course they won't let me test drive this car yet.

Shop somewhere else.

Post by
Is the car somewhat dependable or will I have constant tune-ups and
maintenance ?

The most reliable and usable of the 3X8's by all accounts.

Post by
I also live in the north with 5 months of snow. Although my garage doesnt
freeze, it isnt heated either.
The auto insurance I checked on - not a problem.
Would a Testarossa be a better choice ?

No. Not by any reasoned measure.

Post by
I could also choose a Corvette/Viper/Lotus

You certainly could.

Post by
Help please, Is this purchase worth it or problematic ?

I vote "Problematic": The dealer won't let you drive it and the low
miles means it hasn't been used and probably not properly maintained.

The 328 I was looking it is overpriced. Better deals can be found - with a
few more miles. Great comments about the low milage. I didn't think about
the fact that a car *needs* to be driven enough to keep rubber/fluids/pumps
working properly.

I find your comment about the 328 being the best of the 3X8 cars interesting
because now I am finding a few 348s newer & cheaper with about 20K miles.

Do you have an opion on the 348 ?

Thanks to everyone else for the feedback.

I do drive a Vette C5 now, but instead of buying a newer Vette, I am
thinking about the used Ferraris. They have been my favorite car for as long
as I can remember and I'm sure everyone here can understand that. I am ready
to trade in newer faster technology for the exotic car of my dreams.

So, I guess my choices are 328,348, 355 (wait a few more years)

Thanks to all.

Post by F2005...

Post by
Many of you can probably remember this feeling, I am thinking about
purchasing my first Ferrari and I am very nervous.
The car would be driven very little throughout the year - as to be expected.
I have been searching the net for guidance but perhaps some previous owners
can help here.
I have a decent income but I am not at all wealthy and would have to stretch
my budget to finance a percent of this car. I am looking at a 1998 328

No, you're not.

Post by
and I am looking for some guidance here.
The car is in superb condition and has 9,500 miles on it. Asking price of
$59,000.

GTB or GTS? Sounds high, by about 9K. Check out
www.ferrarimarketletter.com.

Post by
5 speed manual. It has already had its 15,000 mile tune up. What
else to I need to know ?

Tons... Original Ferrari V-8, Keith Bleumel.

Post by
According to the sales guy this car is steel body instead of aluminum (does
that make sense to you guys ?)

Yes.

Post by
What are the advantages/disadvantages ?

It's a body on frame design: None/weight.

Post by
HP rating of 270 I believe - seems kinda low. How does it perform ? How does
it handle onramps - skiddsh ?
No power steering or breaks - how do you guys like that ? Every car I have
owned has had PS/PB.

A 328 should have power brakes, iirc.

Post by
Of course they won't let me test drive this car yet.

Shop somewhere else.

Post by
Is the car somewhat dependable or will I have constant tune-ups and
maintenance ?

The most reliable and usable of the 3X8's by all accounts.

Post by
I also live in the north with 5 months of snow. Although my garage doesnt
freeze, it isnt heated either.
The auto insurance I checked on - not a problem.
Would a Testarossa be a better choice ?

No. Not by any reasoned measure.

Post by
I could also choose a Corvette/Viper/Lotus

You certainly could.

Post by
Help please, Is this purchase worth it or problematic ?

I vote "Problematic": The dealer won't let you drive it and the low
miles means it hasn't been used and probably not properly maintained.

[matt borland]

Post by
Do you have an opion on the 348 ?

It's a good bit more expensive to service than a 308 or 328
due to the engine being mounted north-south instead of east-
west.

It's also more modern, faster, and the handling is more, umm,
well it's allegedly difficult at the limit but it may have more ultimate
grip than a 328.


Pay less now, pay much more at service time.


You might still be in 328 territory but drive a few cars, get
quotes on servicing, and see what you think.



-Matt- "..."

[Iain Miller]

Post by matt borland

Post by
Do you have an opion on the 348 ?

It's a good bit more expensive to service than a 308 or 328
due to the engine being mounted north-south instead of east-
west.
It's also more modern, faster, and the handling is more, umm,
well it's allegedly difficult at the limit but it may have more ultimate
grip than a 328.
Pay less now, pay much more at service time.
You might still be in 328 territory but drive a few cars, get
quotes on servicing, and see what you think.

What he said .

348 handling issues are there but only at speeds you shouldn't be doing on a
public road. On the track may people seem to have had good luck with fitting
spacers & widening the track a bit. I''ve never driven one so you should
talk to people who have (www.ferrarichat.com). There is a dedicated band of
very content 348 owners who wouldn't trade their cars.

There are a few other gremlins i.e. the climate control panel that dies,
costs over £400 and basically can't be replaced anymore because there are no
new ones. That said there are people who have managed to fix these.

The 348 engine is a peach - just expensive to service. The gearbox is also
good but they changed the linkage to cables (from rods in the 328). These
cables can bind when the car is worked very hard alledgedly making the
gearshift very stiff. The 355 engine is clearly more highly stressed and
does suffer from some unfortunate issues - i.e. a propensity to blow exhaust
headers & chew up valves & guides. That said there are some cars/engines
that just seem to be fine with both of these and have no issues.

More worryingly there has been a spate of 355s bursting into flames (a UK
chap on F'chat lost his 355 to this a couple of months ago). Something to do
with the fuel lines. A few others report close calls & finding various
leakes in the fuel system. These can all be rectified/modified & made safe
so something to be aware of but not worry about - i.e. if you bought a 355
you'd want to get it checked out very quickly.

Look here also for relative servicing costs:
http://www.hamletcg.co.uk/qv/offers.htm - Dealer prices would be a good bit
higher than these. These are also UK prices - servicing costs in the US seem
to be higher still.

I.

Great information.

Thanks to both of you.

Post by Iain Miller

Post by matt borland

Post by
Do you have an opion on the 348 ?

It's a good bit more expensive to service than a 308 or 328
due to the engine being mounted north-south instead of east-
west.
It's also more modern, faster, and the handling is more, umm,
well it's allegedly difficult at the limit but it may have more ultimate
grip than a 328.
Pay less now, pay much more at service time.
You might still be in 328 territory but drive a few cars, get
quotes on servicing, and see what you think.

What he said .
348 handling issues are there but only at speeds you shouldn't be doing on
a public road. On the track may people seem to have had good luck with
fitting spacers & widening the track a bit. I''ve never driven one so you
should talk to people who have (www.ferrarichat.com). There is a dedicated
band of very content 348 owners who wouldn't trade their cars.
There are a few other gremlins i.e. the climate control panel that dies,
costs over £400 and basically can't be replaced anymore because there are
no new ones. That said there are people who have managed to fix these.
The 348 engine is a peach - just expensive to service. The gearbox is also
good but they changed the linkage to cables (from rods in the 328). These
cables can bind when the car is worked very hard alledgedly making the
gearshift very stiff. The 355 engine is clearly more highly stressed and
does suffer from some unfortunate issues - i.e. a propensity to blow
exhaust headers & chew up valves & guides. That said there are some
cars/engines that just seem to be fine with both of these and have no
issues.
More worryingly there has been a spate of 355s bursting into flames (a UK
chap on F'chat lost his 355 to this a couple of months ago). Something to
do with the fuel lines. A few others report close calls & finding various
leakes in the fuel system. These can all be rectified/modified & made safe
so something to be aware of but not worry about - i.e. if you bought a 355
you'd want to get it checked out very quickly.
http://www.hamletcg.co.uk/qv/offers.htm - Dealer prices would be a good
bit higher than these. These are also UK prices - servicing costs in the
US seem to be higher still.
I.

[F2005...]

Post by
The 328 I was looking it is overpriced. Better deals can be found - with a
few more miles. Great comments about the low milage. I didn't think about
the fact that a car *needs* to be driven enough to keep rubber/fluids/pumps
working properly.
I find your comment about the 328 being the best of the 3X8 cars interesting
because now I am finding a few 348s newer & cheaper with about 20K miles.
Do you have an opion on the 348 ?

FORZA did an article on the "unloved" Ferrarii, you should find a
copy (I have to run but I'll look it up later).

I think the strakes are hideous and evocative of "the pig that proves
the rule" that late-model TR.

Iirc, their engines are rather fragile, the suspension tuning brittle
...and the interiors are delicate?

Post by
So, I guess my choices are 328,348, 355 (wait a few more years)

As I understand it there's no choice between a 348 and a 355: The 355
is still the apotheosis of the Ferrari V-8 in many opinions and for
very good reasons.

Lately there's a gun metal gray 308 on a lot on my way to work each
morning: It's quite inspiring. They are so beautiful.

[Iain Miller]

Post by F2005...
Iirc, their engines are rather fragile,

I thought 348 engines were pretty OK - its the 355s with the 5 valves & the
exhaust headers made out of steel that's too thin that seem to have more
problems.

Post by F2005...
the suspension tuning brittle

Not heard this one at all

...and the interiors are delicate?

Nor this

Post by F2005...

Post by
So, I guess my choices are 328,348, 355 (wait a few more years)

As I understand it there's no choice between a 348 and a 355: The 355
is still the apotheosis of the Ferrari V-8 in many opinions and for
very good reasons.

Upto a point. As they ar e getting older more & more of them are suffering
header failure & valve problems. Was down at QV the other day & Mike was
just loading 4 or 5 sets of 355 headers into his van to take them off for
rebuilding. They rebuild them with heavier guage pipes.

Post by F2005...
Lately there's a gun metal gray 308 on a lot on my way to work each
morning: It's quite inspiring. They are so beautiful.

Does ya good.

I.

[F2005...]

Post by Iain Miller

Post by F2005...
Iirc, their engines are rather fragile,

I thought 348 engines were pretty OK - its the 355s with the 5 valves & the
exhaust headers made out of steel that's too thin that seem to have more
problems.

Don't the 348 have cat related fire problems?

Post by Iain Miller

Post by F2005...
the suspension tuning brittle

Not heard this one at all

...Squirrely handling when you need it most.

Post by Iain Miller
...and the interiors are delicate?
Nor this

Someone else mentioned cheap controls, I've always thought there was
way too much styrene in it for a Ferrari.

...and I did end the sentence with a question mark.

Post by Iain Miller

Post by F2005...

Post by
So, I guess my choices are 328,348, 355 (wait a few more years)

As I understand it there's no choice between a 348 and a 355: The 355
is still the apotheosis of the Ferrari V-8 in many opinions and for
very good reasons.

Upto a point. As they ar e getting older more & more of them are suffering
header failure & valve problems. Was down at QV the other day & Mike was
just loading 4 or 5 sets of 355 headers into his van to take them off for
rebuilding. They rebuild them with heavier guage pipes.

Hardly in the league with the TRs portliness and pig's-ass ugliness.

Post by Iain Miller

Post by F2005...
Lately there's a gun metal gray 308 on a lot on my way to work each
morning: It's quite inspiring. They are so beautiful.

Does ya good.

It just sits there, with it's leather shrinking in the sun...

Sits a bit nose high as well, I wonder what that's about.

[Iain Miller]

Post by F2005...

Post by Iain Miller

Post by F2005...
Iirc, their engines are rather fragile,

I thought 348 engines were pretty OK - its the 355s with the 5 valves & the
exhaust headers made out of steel that's too thin that seem to have more
problems.

Don't the 348 have cat related fire problems?

Not that I've heard. The current spate of 355 fuel system fires seems to be
more of a concern right now.

Post by F2005...

Post by Iain Miller

Post by F2005...
the suspension tuning brittle

Not heard this one at all

...Squirrely handling when you need it most.

Only at speeds ya shouldn't be doing ona public road - and if you are going
to track it then it can be sorted.

Post by F2005...

Post by Iain Miller
...and the interiors are delicate?
Nor this

Someone else mentioned cheap controls, I've always thought there was
way too much styrene in it for a Ferrari.

It is what it is - you either like it ....or not I suppose.

Post by F2005...

Post by Iain Miller

Post by F2005...
As I understand it there's no choice between a 348 and a 355: The 355
is still the apotheosis of the Ferrari V-8 in many opinions and for
very good reasons.

Upto a point. As they ar e getting older more & more of them are suffering
header failure & valve problems. Was down at QV the other day & Mike was
just loading 4 or 5 sets of 355 headers into his van to take them off for
rebuilding. They rebuild them with heavier guage pipes.

Hardly in the league with the TRs portliness and pig's-ass ugliness.

yeah - but that has 12 cylinders & for some that makes all the difference.

Post by F2005...

Post by Iain Miller

Post by F2005...
Lately there's a gun metal gray 308 on a lot on my way to work each
morning: It's quite inspiring. They are so beautiful.

Does ya good.

It just sits there, with it's leather shrinking in the sun...
Sits a bit nose high as well, I wonder what that's about.

Dead body in the trunk?

Mikal? MIKAL?? has anyone seen Mikal?

I.

[F2005...]

Post by Iain Miller

Post by F2005...

Post by Iain Miller

Post by F2005...
Iirc, their engines are rather fragile,

I thought 348 engines were pretty OK - its the 355s with the 5 valves & the
exhaust headers made out of steel that's too thin that seem to have more
problems.

Don't the 348 have cat related fire problems?

Not that I've heard.

I could easily be wrong, I'm still working from memory (Random Recall
mode).

Post by Iain Miller
The current spate of 355 fuel system fires seems to be
more of a concern right now.

Please expound...

Post by Iain Miller

Post by F2005...

Post by Iain Miller

Post by F2005...
the suspension tuning brittle

Not heard this one at all

...Squirrely handling when you need it most.

Only at speeds ya shouldn't be doing ona public road - and if you are going
to track it then it can be sorted.

A performance car shouldn't turn on you when you need the performance,
the basis of my lifelong dislike of Porchs.

Post by Iain Miller

Post by F2005...

Post by Iain Miller
...and the interiors are delicate?
Nor this

Someone else mentioned cheap controls, I've always thought there was
way too much styrene in it for a Ferrari.

It is what it is - you either like it ....or not I suppose.

A contemporaneous Honda uses infinitely better plastics.

Some said at the time that Ferrari would have been happy to flog the
348 unmodified but the NSX forced the re-design to the 355.

Post by Iain Miller

Post by F2005...

Post by Iain Miller

Post by F2005...
As I understand it there's no choice between a 348 and a 355: The 355
is still the apotheosis of the Ferrari V-8 in many opinions and for
very good reasons.

Upto a point. As they ar e getting older more & more of them are suffering
header failure & valve problems. Was down at QV the other day & Mike was
just loading 4 or 5 sets of 355 headers into his van to take them off for
rebuilding. They rebuild them with heavier guage pipes.

Hardly in the league with the TRs portliness and pig's-ass ugliness.

yeah - but that has 12 cylinders & for some that makes all the difference.

I'd rather have a 412.

Post by Iain Miller

Post by F2005...

Post by Iain Miller

Post by F2005...
Lately there's a gun metal gray 308 on a lot on my way to work each
morning: It's quite inspiring. They are so beautiful.

Does ya good.

It just sits there, with it's leather shrinking in the sun...
Sits a bit nose high as well, I wonder what that's about.

Dead body in the trunk?

It is Valhalla, NY... I have a decent Dino story about the place that
will have to wait till tomorrow.

[Iain Miller]

Post by F2005...
I could easily be wrong, I'm still working from memory (Random Recall
mode).

Post by Iain Miller
The current spate of 355 fuel system fires seems to be
more of a concern right now.

Please expound...

See http://www.ferrarichat.com/forum/showthread.php?t=55058
and http://www.ferrarichat.com/forum/showthread.php?t=32986

9 or 10 cars have gone up in the last year or so it seems.

Post by F2005...

Post by Iain Miller

Post by F2005...
...Squirrely handling when you need it most.

Only at speeds ya shouldn't be doing ona public road - and if you are going
to track it then it can be sorted.

A performance car shouldn't turn on you when you need the performance,
the basis of my lifelong dislike of Porchs.

I've driven a 993 and a 996 & they are a lot lot easier to catch if/when the
back goes than my 328 is. Still wouldn't have one though....well, maybe a
993....

Post by F2005...

Post by Iain Miller

Post by F2005...

Post by F2005...
...and the interiors are delicate?
Nor this

Someone else mentioned cheap controls, I've always thought there was
way too much styrene in it for a Ferrari.

It is what it is - you either like it ....or not I suppose.

Post by F2005...
Hardly in the league with the TRs portliness and pig's-ass ugliness.

yeah - but that has 12 cylinders & for some that makes all the difference.

I'd rather have a 412.

Only if it came from Arizona - horrendous rust-buckets.

I.

[F2005...]

Post by Iain Miller

Post by F2005...
I could easily be wrong, I'm still working from memory (Random Recall
mode).

Post by Iain Miller
The current spate of 355 fuel system fires seems to be
more of a concern right now.

Please expound...

See http://www.ferrarichat.com/forum/showthread.php?t=55058

Perhaps the most insipid thread I've ever read on usenet...

Post by Iain Miller
and http://www.ferrarichat.com/forum/showthread.php?t=32986

...And then I read this one. ..."sent" of [fuel] ... "bond fire" ...
people who don't know which end of screwdriver does the work
pontificating on repair procedures...

I have no use for Ferrari Chat: Far too dominated by illiterates,
baboons, liars and poseurs.

Post by Iain Miller
9 or 10 cars have gone up in the last year or so it seems.

Post by F2005...

Post by Iain Miller

Post by F2005...
...Squirrely handling when you need it most.

Only at speeds ya shouldn't be doing ona public road - and if you are going
to track it then it can be sorted.

A performance car shouldn't turn on you when you need the performance,
the basis of my lifelong dislike of Porchs.

I've driven a 993 and a 996 & they are a lot lot easier to catch if/when the
back goes than my 328 is. Still wouldn't have one though....well, maybe a
993....

"Ass-engined, NAZI, slot cars". - P.J. O'Rourke

Post by Iain Miller

Post by F2005...

Post by Iain Miller

Post by F2005...

Post by F2005...
...and the interiors are delicate?
Nor this

Someone else mentioned cheap controls, I've always thought there was
way too much styrene in it for a Ferrari.

It is what it is - you either like it ....or not I suppose.

Post by F2005...
Hardly in the league with the TRs portliness and pig's-ass ugliness.

yeah - but that has 12 cylinders & for some that makes all the difference.

I'd rather have a 412.

Only if it came from Arizona - horrendous rust-buckets.

I see a few around here fairly regularly, quite lovely.

[Iain Miller]

Post by F2005...

Post by Iain Miller

Post by F2005...

Post by Iain Miller
The current spate of 355 fuel system fires seems to be
more of a concern right now.

Please expound...

See http://www.ferrarichat.com/forum/showthread.php?t=55058

Perhaps the most insipid thread I've ever read on usenet...

Whatever, it happened - if it was your pride & joy you'd probbaly be pretty
gutted too - then again, maybe you wouldn't - but you should be.

Post by F2005...

Post by Iain Miller
and http://www.ferrarichat.com/forum/showthread.php?t=32986

...And then I read this one. ..."sent" of [fuel] ... "bond fire" ...
people who don't know which end of screwdriver does the work
pontificating on repair procedures...

Not everybody can spell - it doesn't make them bad people. A useful pool of
knowledge has come out of what seems to be an emerging trend. No doubt a few
people have had their cars checkked and made safe as a result.

Post by F2005...
I have no use for Ferrari Chat: Far too dominated by illiterates,
baboons, liars and poseurs.

Unsurprisingly enough it probably has no use for you either. Personally I've
found it very useful & picked up some useful technical information. Today I
drove 100 miles in convoy with about a dozen F-chatters to the Auto-Italia
meeting. A good day out, a good good run up the motorway (which did my car
no end of good) and met some very good & likeable people. No baboons, liars
or poseurs, just people who've worked hard to acquire their toys & now enjoy
them - you should try it, it'd good for you.

Post by F2005...

Post by Iain Miller
I've driven a 993 and a 996 & they are a lot lot easier to catch if/when the
back goes than my 328 is. Still wouldn't have one though....well, maybe a
993....

"Ass-engined, NAZI, slot cars". - P.J. O'Rourke

Very, very good driver's cars. Have you driven one? Very predicatable
handling, very useable and quite quick enough.

Post by F2005...

Post by Iain Miller

Post by F2005...
I'd rather have a 412.

Only if it came from Arizona - horrendous rust-buckets.

I see a few around here fairly regularly, quite lovely.

Maybe on the surface. personally I think they are boxy & pretty ugly - but
each to their own.

I.

[Paul Duffin]

Post by Iain Miller

Post by F2005...
I have no use for Ferrari Chat: Far too dominated by illiterates,
baboons, liars and poseurs.

Unsurprisingly enough it probably has no use for you either.

Good call.

-Paul
(Dates for a luncheon? or whatever?)

[matt borland]

Post by Iain Miller
Not everybody can spell - it doesn't make them bad people. A useful pool of
knowledge has come out of what seems to be an emerging trend. No doubt a few
people have had their cars checkked and made safe as a result.

A friend of mine can't spell for crap, partly due to being taught
via the "sight reading" method in poor appalachian schools. Still,
he's built his own practice from scratch to the point that he has
about nine cars, including a 993 Carrera 4 that is a great car...

I know, many on here dislike the Porch, but I still respect 'em.

I really enjoyed the beat-to-hell 924S SE I drove this weekend.

Plus a russian friend once described the 993 thusly, which made
me chuckle:


"Look at from behind, is like woman in number one best position!"


Crass, but funny.

Post by Iain Miller
Unsurprisingly enough it probably has no use for you either. Personally I've
found it very useful & picked up some useful technical information. Today I
drove 100 miles in convoy with about a dozen F-chatters to the Auto-Italia
meeting. A good day out, a good good run up the motorway (which did my car
no end of good) and met some very good & likeable people.

Good for you! Sounds like a cool trip.

Post by Iain Miller

Post by F2005...

Post by Iain Miller

Post by F2005...
I'd rather have a 412.

Only if it came from Arizona - horrendous rust-buckets.

I see a few around here fairly regularly, quite lovely.

Maybe on the surface. personally I think they are boxy & pretty ugly - but
each to their own.

I kinda like the 412, but then I kinda like the 308GT4 too. Boxy, Bertone
style
stuff has a place in my heart even if there isn't much grace to it.


I wouldn't want to maintain a 412 though, just looking at the Bosch
injection
(double the usual amount too) and seeing how they wired them makes me
nervous. I foresee a lot of quality time spent with a multimeter when things
are going bad intermittently.



-Matt- "..."

[Iain Miller]

Post by matt borland
A friend of mine can't spell for crap, partly due to being taught
via the "sight reading" method in poor appalachian schools. Still,
he's built his own practice from scratch to the point that he has
about nine cars, including a 993 Carrera 4 that is a great car...

Zigackly (said Obelix)

Post by matt borland
I know, many on here dislike the Porch, but I still respect 'em.

Likewise

Post by matt borland
I really enjoyed the beat-to-hell 924S SE I drove this weekend.

Good for you

Post by matt borland
Plus a russian friend once described the 993 thusly, which made
"Look at from behind, is like woman in number one best position!"
Crass, but funny.

Indeed :-)

Post by matt borland

Post by Iain Miller
Unsurprisingly enough it probably has no use for you either. Personally

I've found it very useful & picked up some useful technical information.
Today I

Post by Iain Miller
drove 100 miles in convoy with about a dozen F-chatters to the Auto-Italia
meeting. A good day out, a good good run up the motorway (which did my car
no end of good) and met some very good & likeable people.

Good for you! Sounds like a cool trip.

It was - apart from the bit where the Policeman shot out of the motorway
service station (rest area) and pulled the Black 360 at the head of the
line - booked him for doing 90 & I'd be surprised if he was. Claimed they
had had "lots of phone calls" complaining about Ferraris weaving in & out of
traffic.

Nothing to do with us, we were just heading up the road in a fairly orderly
queue - mind you, a line of a dozen or so Ferraris with assorted Tubis &
Capristos does make a phenominal racket (!) I was following a 355 Spyder
with Tubi & no cats on it & I could barely hear my car - and I had the roof
off. I expect we might have frightened a few grannies! There was a 430 in
the line as well which I followed for a while - makes an awesome noise.
Kudos for best noise was a toss up between the 355 Spyder & a wicked looking
black 355 challenge (and maybe a Maranello).

Oh, and my car needs a new rad cap - it tossed a gallon of coolant out the
overflow on the way up. Just as well I had a gallon can of water in the
trunk with me - ho hum! Fortunately there was still another 4 gallons or so
still in the system.

Oddly enough it didn't really lose any on the way home - until I got home &
stopped when it tossed half a pint or so- but then that was a more "even
tempered/paced" trip without any stops or queuing. I think that when the
thing gets really warm the cap just isn't holding the pressure anymore.

Post by matt borland

Post by Iain Miller

Post by F2005...
I'd rather have a 412.

I kinda like the 412, but then I kinda like the 308GT4 too. Boxy, Bertone
style stuff has a place in my heart even if there isn't much grace to it.

I like the GT4 - but not the 412 - too much of a barge & always reminds me
of a Lagonda. I saw a couple today - one was an Automatic - something
inherently wrong about that! On the more positive side, a very clean 288 GTO
was there - which is not something you'll see on your way to work every day.

Post by matt borland
I wouldn't want to maintain a 412 though, just looking at the Bosch
injection (double the usual amount too) and seeing how they wired them
makes me
nervous. I foresee a lot of quality time spent with a multimeter when things
are going bad intermittently.

Well quite... (!) 4 out of 5 of them that you see here are rotting pretty
badly as well - they seem to suffer far worse than other Ferraris from
either before or after.

I.

[Will]

Post by matt borland
I know, many on here dislike the Porch

That is probably because:

A) They've never owned or driven one, and/or.

B) Their typical view of them is from behind, or from the pits while nursing
a broken car.

Both the F and P cars are generally great cars.

;)

[Iain Miller]

Post by F2005...
Perhaps the most insipid thread I've ever read on usenet...

.....and as an afterthought.

F-chat is not usenet, its a privately owned, run and moderated web forum
which, as far as I am aware is run on a non-profit basis & is funded by
sponsorship from interested companies who supply parts to the Ferrari
community. Such companies clearly believe that its a well run and useful
forum - indeed many of them (including the Ferrari UK parts people who hold
all the stock of parts for older cars) often make useful contributions and
provide helpful advise.

When you've contributed something even 1% as useful to the Ferrari owners
community do come back & let us know.

Other than that, if you don't like it, I suggest you don't go there.

I.

[F2005...]

Post by Iain Miller
When you've contributed something even 1% as useful to the Ferrari owners
community do come back & let us know.

Yes... The weeks long symposium on "what that little round hole in
the bumper of my 512 TR is for" is absolutely riveting.

Post by Iain Miller
Other than that, if you don't like it, I suggest you don't go there.

Shameless glad-handing and logrolling obscure the 1% that might be
useful or informative.

[Iain Miller]

Post by
Many of you can probably remember this feeling, I am thinking about
purchasing my first Ferrari and I am very nervous.
The car would be driven very little throughout the year - as to be expected.

Fine but its important to run it regularly to keep all the seals in tact.
That means running the engine up to get some oil temperature & running all
the fans & switches etc to keep everything moving. If you leave an old
Ferrari electric window in the same place for 6 months don't be surprised if
it doesn't feel like working afterwards! Don't suggest you drive it in the
snow & salt is your enemy.

Post by
I have been searching the net for guidance but perhaps some previous
owners can help here.
I have a decent income but I am not at all wealthy and would have to
stretch my budget to finance a percent of this car. I am looking at a 1998
328 and I am looking for some guidance here.
The car is in superb condition and has 9,500 miles on it. Asking price of
$59,000. 5 speed manual. It has already had its 15,000 mile tune up. What
else to I need to know ?

The mileage is low - low mileage cars command high prices but often cause
far more problems than cars that have been used a bit. Your ideal 328 these
days would have 25-30K on it & have records showing regular steady annual
mileage. From what I know of US prices I'd say that is expensive.

Post by
According to the sales guy this car is steel body instead of aluminum
(does that make sense to you guys ?)

Its steel

Post by
What are the advantages/disadvantages ?

It rusts

Post by
HP rating of 270 I believe - seems kinda low. How does it perform ? How
does it handle onramps - skiddsh ?

0-60 in less than 6 secs, top end of about 163. Its a quick car but it
probably wouldn't live with a Subaru WRX - but then that really isn't the
point of it. Its not a big car & it drives like a go-cart. The steering on a
good car is fantastic & very direct- some of them are getting a bit soggy .

Post by
No power steering or breaks - how do you guys like that ? Every car I have
owned has had PS/PB. Of course they won't let me test drive this car yet.

No power steering makes it a bit heavy to park in tight spots (but the tyres
arn't that fat - 205s on the front). Solution? Avoid parking in tight spots

The brakes are servo assisted & pretty good for road use. Upgrades are
possible if you wanted to track the car.

Post by
Is the car somewhat dependable or will I have constant tune-ups and
maintenance ?

Highly reliable & pretty bomb proof BUT its a 16 year old car that hasn't
been used much. You may have issues with decaying hoses etc that need to be
replaced & maybe some issues with rubber trim & seals if they havn't been
looked after. For low mileage and annual service should suffice. Service
prices in the US do seem a tad steep though. US car cambelt interval is 5
yrs (Europe is 2 years). Unlike 348/355/Testa its NOT an engine out job -
which makes it much less expensive to do.

Post by
I also live in the north with 5 months of snow. Although my garage doesnt
freeze, it isnt heated either.

Not necessarily a problem. A dehumidifier is your friend if you live in a
remotely damp climate. Better not to freeze it though!

Post by
The auto insurance I checked on - not a problem.

Insurance is cheap & a nice bonus

Post by
Would a Testarossa be a better choice ?

Much MUCH more expensive to maintain. The 328 is probably the least
expensive modern Ferrari to run & maintain. Its not that different to a
308/308GT4 & Mondial but, because it came along after, there are probably
fewer "bugs" in it. Things like oil changes & brakes are definitly DIY -
even for a half competent home mechanic.

Post by
I could also choose a Corvette/Viper/Lotus

You could. You either "get" having a Ferrari or you don't. For many F owners
the choice of a corvette,Viper, Lotus or a Ferrari isn't a choice. Besides
that I suspect you are talking C5 etc which means you are comparing modern
cars with a 16 year old car. Chalk & cheese.

Post by
Help please, Is this purchase worth it or problematic ?

If you buy a good car and then budget to spend some on it to get it straight
initially & then look after it right its definitly worth it - if you like
that sort of thing.

Post by
Sorry for all the questions, just looking for a friendly previous owner.

No problem - its what this place is for. Suggest you also check Google & go
& read www.ferrarichat.com as well. I've had my 328 for 6 years & its not
for sale :-)

Post by
Thanks

welcome

I.

[matt borland]

Post by
Many of you can probably remember this feeling, I am thinking about
purchasing my first Ferrari and I am very nervous.
The car would be driven very little throughout the year - as to be expected.
I have been searching the net for guidance but perhaps some previous owners
can help here.
I have a decent income but I am not at all wealthy and would have to stretch
my budget to finance a percent of this car. I am looking at a 1998 328 and I
am looking for some guidance here.
The car is in superb condition and has 9,500 miles on it. Asking price of
$59,000. 5 speed manual. It has already had its 15,000 mile tune up. What
else to I need to know ?

It needs a thorough pre-purchase inspection, by someone
that is not the seller and is familiar with these cars. Save some
cash for the hidden bits that haven't been put right yet.

Post by
HP rating of 270 I believe - seems kinda low. How does it perform ? How does
it handle onramps - skiddsh ?

0-60mph in about 6 seconds, the tires are small by modern standards
so I suspect it might feel skiddish at the limit compared to more modern
iron. It'll feel like a twenty year old exotic car. Hot for '88,
interesting,
fun, and different for '05.

Post by
No power steering or breaks - how do you guys like that ? Every car I have
owned has had PS/PB. Of course they won't let me test drive this car yet.

Aside from tight parking lots manual steering feels great to me.

Post by
Is the car somewhat dependable or will I have constant tune-ups and
maintenance ?

Properly maintained it should be very reliable, but maintenance
is expensive by domestic standards, though somewhat cheap
by exotic standards (355, Testarossa, Lambo, etc. cost more)

Post by
I also live in the north with 5 months of snow. Although my garage doesnt
freeze, it isnt heated either.

Shouldn't be a big deal if proper precautions are taken.

Post by
Would a Testarossa be a better choice ?

Totally different car and much more expensive to service. If $59k
is tight you're not in Testarossa money.

Post by
I could also choose a Corvette/Viper/Lotus

You could, but then you'd

a)pass cars just like yours every day (Vette)

b)drive a torque monster down the road sideways but still
not have a Ferrari (Viper) plus it sounds like a vacuum cleaner

c)have a fun exotic with disappointing GM trim bits (Esprit)
or a killer track car with a Toyota engine (Elise)

Post by
Help please, Is this purchase worth it or problematic ?

Only you can answer that one for yourself. Do you want it bad enough?

Post by
Sorry for all the questions, just looking for a friendly previous owner.

Not an owner yet, but still planning on it...



-Matt- "..."

[Ted Adlam]

Hello Jeff,

This question comes up now and again--merit/demerit of an older Ferrari. I
went through this 6 yrs ago and chose a 328 over a new Vette (similar
initial outlay). You can search this group for past postings and find some
similar discussions.

One point I'll make here is about the economics. Very often when somebody
finds out I own a Ferrari they'll look at me funny and say something like,
"I heard that Ferrari oil changes cost $500, is that true?" Not quite that
much (but more than a Chevy...partly because the 328 crankcase is so damn
big). What I tell people is that the higher maintenance cost for a Ferrari
is *more* than offset by the nil depreciation. An extra bonus, in Arizona
my 328's annual license renewal is now less than $100 (my wife's new minivan
is $600!). Bottom line, when I figure my total cost of ownership (depr,
maint., license, insurance) for my 1987 328 and compare to what I estimate
it would have been for a new 2000 Vette, I find the 328 is slightly cheaper
to own. This is based on a 2-3k miles/yr usage rate. In a nutshell: most
people focus and fret about maintenance cost on an older car but tend to
underestimate the depreciation factor in owning a new car.

Food for thought. But regardless of financial arguments, you have to decide
what you like...no bargain to make a compromise choice and be unhappy with
that. The 328 is quick enough for me but if you lust for power then maybe
have to go with a modern sports car.

Ted.

Post by
Many of you can probably remember this feeling, I am thinking about
purchasing my first Ferrari and I am very nervous.
The car would be driven very little throughout the year - as to be expected.
I have been searching the net for guidance but perhaps some previous
owners can help here.
I have a decent income but I am not at all wealthy and would have to
stretch my budget to finance a percent of this car. I am looking at a 1998
328 and I am looking for some guidance here.
The car is in superb condition and has 9,500 miles on it. Asking price of
$59,000. 5 speed manual. It has already had its 15,000 mile tune up. What
else to I need to know ?
According to the sales guy this car is steel body instead of aluminum
(does that make sense to you guys ?)
What are the advantages/disadvantages ?
HP rating of 270 I believe - seems kinda low. How does it perform ? How
does it handle onramps - skiddsh ?
No power steering or breaks - how do you guys like that ? Every car I have
owned has had PS/PB. Of course they won't let me test drive this car yet.
Is the car somewhat dependable or will I have constant tune-ups and
maintenance ?
I also live in the north with 5 months of snow. Although my garage doesnt
freeze, it isnt heated either.
The auto insurance I checked on - not a problem.
Would a Testarossa be a better choice ?
I could also choose a Corvette/Viper/Lotus
Help please, Is this purchase worth it or problematic ?
Sorry for all the questions, just looking for a friendly previous owner.
Thanks
-Jeff

Thanks Ted.

I drive a Corvette C5 now. I understand your comments about awesome power vs
the Ferrari mystique.
I am also (more seriously) considering a 355. I will start a new thread.

Post by Ted Adlam
Hello Jeff,
This question comes up now and again--merit/demerit of an older Ferrari.
I went through this 6 yrs ago and chose a 328 over a new Vette (similar
initial outlay). You can search this group for past postings and find
some similar discussions.
One point I'll make here is about the economics. Very often when somebody
finds out I own a Ferrari they'll look at me funny and say something like,
"I heard that Ferrari oil changes cost $500, is that true?" Not quite
that much (but more than a Chevy...partly because the 328 crankcase is so
damn big). What I tell people is that the higher maintenance cost for a
Ferrari is *more* than offset by the nil depreciation. An extra bonus, in
Arizona my 328's annual license renewal is now less than $100 (my wife's
new minivan is $600!). Bottom line, when I figure my total cost of
ownership (depr, maint., license, insurance) for my 1987 328 and compare
to what I estimate it would have been for a new 2000 Vette, I find the 328
is slightly cheaper to own. This is based on a 2-3k miles/yr usage rate.
In a nutshell: most people focus and fret about maintenance cost on an
older car but tend to underestimate the depreciation factor in owning a
new car.
Food for thought. But regardless of financial arguments, you have to
decide what you like...no bargain to make a compromise choice and be
unhappy with that. The 328 is quick enough for me but if you lust for
power then maybe have to go with a modern sports car.
Ted.

Post by
Many of you can probably remember this feeling, I am thinking about
purchasing my first Ferrari and I am very nervous.
The car would be driven very little throughout the year - as to be expected.
I have been searching the net for guidance but perhaps some previous
owners can help here.
I have a decent income but I am not at all wealthy and would have to
stretch my budget to finance a percent of this car. I am looking at a
1998 328 and I am looking for some guidance here.
The car is in superb condition and has 9,500 miles on it. Asking price of
$59,000. 5 speed manual. It has already had its 15,000 mile tune up. What
else to I need to know ?
According to the sales guy this car is steel body instead of aluminum
(does that make sense to you guys ?)
What are the advantages/disadvantages ?
HP rating of 270 I believe - seems kinda low. How does it perform ? How
does it handle onramps - skiddsh ?
No power steering or breaks - how do you guys like that ? Every car I
have owned has had PS/PB. Of course they won't let me test drive this car
yet.
Is the car somewhat dependable or will I have constant tune-ups and
maintenance ?
I also live in the north with 5 months of snow. Although my garage doesnt
freeze, it isnt heated either.
The auto insurance I checked on - not a problem.
Would a Testarossa be a better choice ?
I could also choose a Corvette/Viper/Lotus
Help please, Is this purchase worth it or problematic ?
Sorry for all the questions, just looking for a friendly previous owner.
Thanks
-Jeff

Thanks for all of your advice. I think my day of obtaining my first Ferrari
is getting very very close.
I found a 328 GTS with mileage and a price that works perfect for me.
The hard part now is that it is in a different part of the country. It would
sure be a bummer to fly out, be disappointed and have to return. I also
don't want to buy it just because I flew all that way.

I have the CarFax report. I am requesting belt change date and mileage since
change.

Somebody mentioned the clutch. How do I test a *wearing* clutch. - Just by
too much motion towards the floor before release ?
What else do I look for, any spots that rust early ?

Also, should I drive this car 1,000 miles home or rent a truck/trailer ? I
know that is a personal question that only I can really answer but I am
nervous about this car breaking down or getting stone chips half way home
and being bummed out.


Thanks again. I am very excited but don't want to make a hasty decision.

Post by
Many of you can probably remember this feeling, I am thinking about
purchasing my first Ferrari and I am very nervous.
The car would be driven very little throughout the year - as to be expected.
I have been searching the net for guidance but perhaps some previous
owners can help here.
I have a decent income but I am not at all wealthy and would have to
stretch my budget to finance a percent of this car. I am looking at a 1998
328 and I am looking for some guidance here.
The car is in superb condition and has 9,500 miles on it. Asking price of
$59,000. 5 speed manual. It has already had its 15,000 mile tune up. What
else to I need to know ?
According to the sales guy this car is steel body instead of aluminum
(does that make sense to you guys ?)
What are the advantages/disadvantages ?
HP rating of 270 I believe - seems kinda low. How does it perform ? How
does it handle onramps - skiddsh ?
No power steering or breaks - how do you guys like that ? Every car I have
owned has had PS/PB. Of course they won't let me test drive this car yet.
Is the car somewhat dependable or will I have constant tune-ups and
maintenance ?
I also live in the north with 5 months of snow. Although my garage doesnt
freeze, it isnt heated either.
The auto insurance I checked on - not a problem.
Would a Testarossa be a better choice ?
I could also choose a Corvette/Viper/Lotus
Help please, Is this purchase worth it or problematic ?
Sorry for all the questions, just looking for a friendly previous owner.
Thanks
-Jeff

[Automatic Jack]

Post by
Thanks for all of your advice. I think my day of obtaining my first Ferrari
is getting very very close.

Nikola, I'm happy for you. But I don't think there's anybody in those
other groups, just to let you know. I mean, if that's suddenly where
all these new names are coming from, somebody has to let them know that
THIS is where it's at - though it's a kitchen with a bit of heat, if
they know what I mean.

M

Thanks for the info.

The only thing I have concerns about at this point is that the last major
service was in 2001. 10,000 Miles ago.

I will of course drive the car to a Ferrari mechanic for an inspection
before buying.

Post by Automatic Jack

Post by
Thanks for all of your advice. I think my day of obtaining my first
Ferrari is getting very very close.

Nikola, I'm happy for you. But I don't think there's anybody in those
other groups, just to let you know. I mean, if that's suddenly where all
these new names are coming from, somebody has to let them know that THIS
is where it's at - though it's a kitchen with a bit of heat, if they know
what I mean.
M
--
"Sendai eyes are notorious for depth-perception defects and warranty
hassles, among other things."

[Ted Adlam]

If you do a pre-purchase inspection at a Ferrari dealer (or knowledgeable
independent exotic car dealer) they would be able to assess how much
adjustment is left in the clutch--to determine roughly what % life is
remaining. They can also do a compression/leakdown test so you can be sure
the engine is strong along with and extensive laundry list of checks on the
car. Or if the car you are looking at has a complete service history, you
can gauge clutch life remaining from this based on 30k miles/clutch. I had
mine done at the same time as the last major service (27k miles)...on the
328 the clutch job isn't too terrible since engine does not have to drop
out. $1700 covers the entire clutch job including new throw-out bearing.
Clutches begin slipping at end-of-life, until slipping begins you don't
experience any other symptoms of a clutch nearing the end.

The 328 is actually rather reliable for an exotic, but if you have doubts
about the service history then having it transported might be the cautious
approach. But if the service history is solid, and you don't mind being
cramped for a long trip, go for it.

Ted.

Post by
Thanks for all of your advice. I think my day of obtaining my first
Ferrari is getting very very close.
I found a 328 GTS with mileage and a price that works perfect for me.
The hard part now is that it is in a different part of the country. It
would sure be a bummer to fly out, be disappointed and have to return. I
also don't want to buy it just because I flew all that way.
I have the CarFax report. I am requesting belt change date and mileage
since change.
Somebody mentioned the clutch. How do I test a *wearing* clutch. - Just by
too much motion towards the floor before release ?
What else do I look for, any spots that rust early ?
Also, should I drive this car 1,000 miles home or rent a truck/trailer ? I
know that is a personal question that only I can really answer but I am
nervous about this car breaking down or getting stone chips half way home
and being bummed out.
Thanks again. I am very excited but don't want to make a hasty decision.

Post by
Many of you can probably remember this feeling, I am thinking about
purchasing my first Ferrari and I am very nervous.
The car would be driven very little throughout the year - as to be expected.
I have been searching the net for guidance but perhaps some previous
owners can help here.
I have a decent income but I am not at all wealthy and would have to
stretch my budget to finance a percent of this car. I am looking at a
1998 328 and I am looking for some guidance here.
The car is in superb condition and has 9,500 miles on it. Asking price of
$59,000. 5 speed manual. It has already had its 15,000 mile tune up. What
else to I need to know ?
According to the sales guy this car is steel body instead of aluminum
(does that make sense to you guys ?)
What are the advantages/disadvantages ?
HP rating of 270 I believe - seems kinda low. How does it perform ? How
does it handle onramps - skiddsh ?
No power steering or breaks - how do you guys like that ? Every car I
have owned has had PS/PB. Of course they won't let me test drive this car
yet.
Is the car somewhat dependable or will I have constant tune-ups and
maintenance ?
I also live in the north with 5 months of snow. Although my garage doesnt
freeze, it isnt heated either.
The auto insurance I checked on - not a problem.
Would a Testarossa be a better choice ?
I could also choose a Corvette/Viper/Lotus
Help please, Is this purchase worth it or problematic ?
Sorry for all the questions, just looking for a friendly previous owner.
Thanks
-Jeff

A sincere thanks to all the advice given here.

I found a car I liked in Miami (in the middle of its major tune up) and
purchased it.

An awesome car and a dream come true.

Thanks again

Post by
Many of you can probably remember this feeling, I am thinking about
purchasing my first Ferrari and I am very nervous.
The car would be driven very little throughout the year - as to be expected.
I have been searching the net for guidance but perhaps some previous
owners can help here.
I have a decent income but I am not at all wealthy and would have to
stretch my budget to finance a percent of this car. I am looking at a 1998
328 and I am looking for some guidance here.
The car is in superb condition and has 9,500 miles on it. Asking price of
$59,000. 5 speed manual. It has already had its 15,000 mile tune up. What
else to I need to know ?
According to the sales guy this car is steel body instead of aluminum
(does that make sense to you guys ?)
What are the advantages/disadvantages ?
HP rating of 270 I believe - seems kinda low. How does it perform ? How
does it handle onramps - skiddsh ?
No power steering or breaks - how do you guys like that ? Every car I have
owned has had PS/PB. Of course they won't let me test drive this car yet.
Is the car somewhat dependable or will I have constant tune-ups and
maintenance ?
I also live in the north with 5 months of snow. Although my garage doesnt
freeze, it isnt heated either.
The auto insurance I checked on - not a problem.
Would a Testarossa be a better choice ?
I could also choose a Corvette/Viper/Lotus
Help please, Is this purchase worth it or problematic ?
Sorry for all the questions, just looking for a friendly previous owner.
Thanks
-Jeff