Originally Posted by jamie

Could easily be a dd.

I'm already bored of the R8 and looking for a 6spd spider or scud to dd.

Originally Posted by Barrister

I don't own a 430 (I own an 04 360) but I think the issue is similar for both.

These cars can both be driven daily. In fact, it has been my experience that they need to be driven at least weekly to keep them in good working order.

I have chosen not to drive my Ferrari daily because I also have a 997TT that handles that job. Also, I like the Ferrari to be kind of a weekend treat - something to look forward to.

Mechanically, the F430 has is chain driven (as opposed to the 360 which retains the old belt driven system). As a result, it is quite a reliable daily driver and does not require the belt service like the 360 does. On the other hand, the F430 comes with carbon ceramic brakes which more than manke up for the cost of the belt service once they need attention. So it is pretty much a wash.

Be sure to expect between $1.50 and $1.80 per mile in routine maintenance and repair costs. I hit this mark nearly spot on in my first year of Ferrari ownership (new clutch is what put me over the edge). Don't let yourself be shocked when you end up putting out at least $5,000 a year. The annual service on the car is going to run you in the thousands by itself.

In the end, these cars are meant to be driven and Ferrari has made huge strides forward in mechanical reliability since the nightmare 80s when it got its reputation as a tempermental machine. When Ferrari debuted the 360 in 1999, they billed it as the car you could drive everyday and for long distances. Many of us remember Monte putting the golf bag behind the back seat and the luggage in the front boot.

My 360 Buyer's Guide (click the link below) has some information that might be useful to you. While it is not an F430 guide, much of the info is true when shopping for any exotic car.

https://teamspeed.com/forums/458-430...ers-guide.html

Good luck.