Page 132 - Wayne Carini's Guide to Affordable Classics

Through 2019 and 2020, F360 models at auction were generally F430 models still trade markedly higher, spanning a range of
selling between $50,000 and $100,000. Most examples had reserve prices, and if bids were not at least $50,000 the car went unsold. Very few buyers bid over about $90,000 for the lowest-mileage examples. Naturally, dealer and private seller asking prices are higher, often dramatically higher for special models such as the 360 Challenge Stradale.
$80,000 to about $150,000 in auction sales in 2019 and 2020. Special models such as the 430 Scuderia and Spider 16M tend to trade above that range.
The Knowledge
dWhile the F360 and F430 represent a quantum jump
in quality over prior Ferrari vehicles, they’re still Ferraris and there are weak points. For example, exhaust headers have a tendency to break, as do engine mounts. The F1 automatic transmissions are complex and sometimes give difficulties with the hydraulic pump and control software, but the manual transmissions require replacement clutches and shift lever bushings. In the suspension, the ball joints are said to wear out quickly, especially if the car is not driven regularly. Finally, grounding is an issue with the aluminum construction of these cars.
dThere’s more to a Challenge Stradale than a hot rod engine with 425 horsepower. Almost every body panel
is different from the base F360 Modena. The bodywork changes boosted downforce by 50 percent compared to the base model. The Challenge Stradale rode on lowered and stiffened suspension, rolling on unique 19-inch wheels. The carbon ceramic brake kit added stopping power.
For weight reduction, some windows are made of Lexan polycarbonate instead of glass. There is no carpeting
or sound insulation, either. In all, the Challenge Stradale
is almost 200 pounds lighter than a standard 360. As a result, the CS laps the Fiorano test track about 3.5 seconds faster than its standard stablemate.
dFerrari buyers prize low mileage cars very highly. Every mile on the odometer is a potential hit to resale value. Perhaps paradoxically, Ferraris seem to last longer when driven regularly, but that is forgotten when it comes to resale. The lowest auction prices are commanded by cars with 30,000 or more miles on the chassis, and the highest
are reserved for the ultra-low mileage examples. We don’t understand why someone would buy a legendary performance car and then not drive it, but the valuation trends are clear.
dOne of the most critical aspects of buying any Ferrari is the maintenance and repair history. Every Ferrari has a very specific maintenance schedule, and the maintenance isn’t cheap. This is especially true for the F360, which uses a toothed Gilmer belt to drive the dual overhead cams
on both banks of cylinders. If this belt is not replaced on schedule it can fail and cause catastrophic engine damage. The F430 uses a timing chain, so it’s better in that specific case. However, always ask for proof of regular maintenance and most particularly the most recent scheduled maintenance. Sellers often defer expensive engine-out operations when they know they plan to sell the car. Buying a Ferrari that needs a service is just volunteering to pay extra.
dThe best resource for new Ferrari owners is the existing Ferrari owner community. The Ferrari Club of America represents thousands of owners nationwide and the
local chapters are very active with social meetings, tech sessions, and informational events. The owners in your area will know where to take your car for service and, if you’re buying locally, may know the history of your particular car.
130Wayne CariniAffordable Classics