I've been toying with the idea of selling one of my antique cars and getting something more 'fun' to accompany my GT. Actually have had a deposit on a McLaren for some time. As the start of deliveries of the McLarens remains a mystery, as does my actual place on the waiting list, my eyes had been roaming some. During this time, I'd also read 5-6 review of the new McLaren and everyone seemed to prefer the Ferrari 458 to it. While I don't put much credence in the car mags' reviews, and I'd been less than enamored with my area Ferrari dealer in the past, I stopped by the Orlando dealer to check out what they had. They had 2 458s in showroom - a black car and a red car. The car was actually beautiful in person and quite comfortable. The salesman there was very nice and helpful, very different than 4 years ago when I last went in. Unfortunately, they wanted some $17k over sticker for their highly optioned car, which I was not too keen about. Found a few on-line that looked of interest. Since I wanted it spec'd very particularly, took a while to find what I was looking for.
Eventually I found a lightly used 2000 mi car located in Beverly Hills. It was being consigned by a dealer not on the forum, so I was a bit apprehensive about the process. Would have much rather bought from a known entity (like Shelby), but none of the usual suspects had exactly what I was looking for. During one of my many conversations with Shadowman about all things GT he said he knew the dealer consigning it and would give him a call to get the scoop. Bill said car sounded great and he actually negotiated what was a great no nonsense price on the car for far under asking price, and even under MSRP (very tough to do on the 458). The price was far better than anything I found, and car was optioned exactly as I liked. Bill then called one of his GT buddies (Chris A on the forum) who kindly offered to inspect it the next day. I tried to pay Chris for his time and travel expenses but he refused. What a great guy. Chris said the car was perfect and the deal was completed same day.
I found a shipper who brought car across country the same week. Unfortunately, having real issues with them due to fact they damaged 2 of the wheels and are giving me grief about replacing them, but that is a story for another day.
I've only taken 1 drive in the car, as waiting to get title, so can't register it and get plates. Consignor paid off note to Ferrari N.America when I paid for the car, so should be here next week.
On initial drive, must say the exhaust sound is intoxicating; the dual clutch is wild, and all the electronics and gadgets are pretty mind boggling. The carbon brakes definitely have a 'feel' that I am not yet accustomed too. After the rally, will post some more photos and a better description/comparison.
And don't worry guys - I don't have any matching Ferrari sweat suits, watches and hats on the way
Eventually I found a lightly used 2000 mi car located in Beverly Hills. It was being consigned by a dealer not on the forum, so I was a bit apprehensive about the process. Would have much rather bought from a known entity (like Shelby), but none of the usual suspects had exactly what I was looking for. During one of my many conversations with Shadowman about all things GT he said he knew the dealer consigning it and would give him a call to get the scoop. Bill said car sounded great and he actually negotiated what was a great no nonsense price on the car for far under asking price, and even under MSRP (very tough to do on the 458). The price was far better than anything I found, and car was optioned exactly as I liked. Bill then called one of his GT buddies (Chris A on the forum) who kindly offered to inspect it the next day. I tried to pay Chris for his time and travel expenses but he refused. What a great guy. Chris said the car was perfect and the deal was completed same day.
I found a shipper who brought car across country the same week. Unfortunately, having real issues with them due to fact they damaged 2 of the wheels and are giving me grief about replacing them, but that is a story for another day.
I've only taken 1 drive in the car, as waiting to get title, so can't register it and get plates. Consignor paid off note to Ferrari N.America when I paid for the car, so should be here next week.
On initial drive, must say the exhaust sound is intoxicating; the dual clutch is wild, and all the electronics and gadgets are pretty mind boggling. The carbon brakes definitely have a 'feel' that I am not yet accustomed too. After the rally, will post some more photos and a better description/comparison.
And don't worry guys - I don't have any matching Ferrari sweat suits, watches and hats on the way
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