Jamie enjoy the car. A friend of mine has one and I've had the pleasure of driving it and riding in it on numerous occasions. While i'm a bit shorter than you the seats hug me pretty tightly. I love the car. I can stare at it for hours. My only gripe would be the steering wheel position. Apart from that it is one of the most visceral experiences to be had in an automobile. Nothing touches it in that regard. Keep driving it and I bet you'll grow to love it even more.

 

^I think this raises a lot of valid points.

For what it's worth, Jamie, the allure to the F40 for me is how raw it is. But, I grew up surrounded by old cars (67 GT500, etc) so I enjoy a lack of refinement whether it is an older car or even old diesel trucks (I like those too).

No one needs a reminder that you have impeccable taste in autos and so on, but what I got out of your post is that you're not particularly enjoying your experience and maybe prefer something a bit more polished/comfortable.

I hate reading that you don't seem particularly thrilled, and I hope that you begin to enjoy it more or if necessary move on to something you find more suitable.

 

I'm about 5'8" and I've had the honor of driving Kuzi's F40 at one point in the past. The F40 is a car that demands respect. I felt very intimidated from the first time I opened its door to the time when I settled in the bucket seats. I would say that it's like being connected to a "live wire" constantly. I found myself constantly aware of everything that was going on all around myself just as you did, Jamie. It's not an easy car to drive.

 

Jaime I don't disagree you will put miles on. Kuzi drives his more than his CS. It's a shame these cars sit. My CGT which I am extremely happy with had just over 2500 miles when I got it this year. I've since added 35% more miles and will continue to add them. I've driven places in the rain and I am enjoying the car. I like the car though so it's easy. You've got to love your purchases or you will resent them in the end. Wether the F40 gains it's value back or not have some stuff you will enjoy.

I remember 5 or so years ago a local F40 guy took his on one of our 3 day weekends. They arrived after 4 hours in the saddle and I honestly thought his girlfriend at the time was going to take a Bus home. They couldn't move and she had been sitting on pillows. I just remember Wow great experience for them. I bet they can't wait to head home. He's a F40 junky and he's always in his which I think is great I just don't think that women can even get close to understanding that car.

 

I have absolutely no clue what it's like to drive an F40, but i know how it's like to own something you wanted so badly and it turns out not being as good as you expected it.

So if you are not happy with it you should consider selling it. Maybe replace it with a more modern car? Maybe a LP670SV ? Would also be a good investment and the thrill you get from driving it won't disappoint you at all..i guess

 

There have been many great points made on the pros and cons of Ferraris F40. For me it comes down to needing to be plugged into a "live wire" (as Jason put it) every once in a while. I can't put my finger on the exact reason(s), but perhaps this article comparing an Mclaren F1 to the F40 can get close. Its a great read and some decent pics.

Ferrari F40 vs. McLaren F1 - Inside Line

"Yet strangely it is the Ferrari to which we're drawn. We want another chance to master that gearchange, another opportunity to make sure that the steering really is quite so extraordinarily good. And the chance to roll down the window, squeeze the right pedal and listen as the turbos spool up, then grip the wheel a little tighter as the fat Michelins momentarily exceed the limits of traction. We ache to own an F40. Will we be able to say the same about the Bugatti Veyron some 20 years from now? We suspect not."

 

Exceptionally valid points.

However, I gotta say that I get a tremendous amount of pleasure just going out to the garage and looking at it. It's the most beautiful car I've ever seen in my life. Truly a work of art.

I buy my toys with cash and don't really need the money. So my alternatives are stocks (which, given my history, will crash the day following purchase) gold coins or bullion (sure to crash after I buy them) or multi-unit residential ( a better investment).

Edit: Please don't think I'm a whining drama queen. I truly love the car. It's just that the driving experience is not up to my supremely elevated expectations.

 

Jamie I agree as much as I love driving a car like the F40. There is something satisfying about just staring at it. It's just so damn beautiful.

 

Great write-up Jamie, congrats!

Pics, vids maybe someday?

 

Jamie do you ever park the F40 in the garage, about to walk inside, turn back and hop back in and take it for another drive to see if your impression will change?