
03-24-2010, 03:00 PM
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 | TEAMSPEED.COM  | | Join Date: Sep 2009 Location: Fort Lauderdale, FL
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Quote: Originally Posted by h20skier »
weren't 6 speeds only like 5% of the 430 and 360 population as well? I actually think this is the first modern day Ferrari that a 6 speed fits. The 599, 430/360 combo were built based on quick same with the 458. Get power down to the ground as fast as possible and get through the gears. The Cali was built as a cruiser and although it's speed is faster than most Ferrari's a 6 speed fits PERFECT.
I don't have an official figure, but have read a range of less than 1% to 2% of 430s were ordered with 6sp manuals. I do understand where Ferrari is coming from, in somewhat insisting that these cars need F1 or DCT to extract the most performance. I love shifting myself, but speed is speed.
I also agree that a 6sp manual fits in a cruiser like the California, but remember *most* people buying Californias are in the same market as SL65, Bentley GTC, and would probably even enjoy an automatic. The California is a car they can enjoy whereas the 430 may be too brute for them. Many people I have spoken to about our Californias don't (or don't care to) know what a DCT is. Or how many ratios it has.
Either way I am happy to hear Ferrari will offer the manual, because it will make the California much more involving and grab some enthusiasts...a great performing cruiser (that sounds tits). Hopefully they have some handling package in the future to tighten up the car as well. I think they will become collectible in the future, as it may be the last of the metal gates...
A good move on their part! |