If you really want the F1 transmission you should try to look for a 360, 430 etc. If you're looking at 355s based on price you should stay away from the F1 based on price too.

The F1 in the 355 was a novelty and has been constantly improved ever since. It's a great transmission in the 355 but simply because it was among the first it's the "worst" one to get.

 

don't get f1. expensive repairs and shorter clutch life. plus personally i think f1 is for people who can't drive.

 

Personally would stay away from the F355 F1 system.

Just read this which had some interesting insights into the V8 market:

http://www.avidsquare.com/blog/a-loo...ari-v8-market/

 

I have an engine-out coming in about 3 years. In owning the F355 I have accepted the fact that the service must be done and will take full advantage of the time the engine is out to thoroughly detail the engine, the engine bay, and repaint the valve covers. My time-proven independent tech will allow me to do the detailing at his shop as the engine is out. I have weighed the possible reputational value lost when not having the maintenance service done by the Ferrari dealership, but believe the opportunity to personally and clean the engine and engine bay are priceless. A fanatical detailer's perspective, for sure!

 

I had a 99' 355 F1 and can attest to the high F1 upkeep cost. For example, if the F1 pump needs to be replaced, the cost for the part is $16,000 (not a misprint), before labor. Also, keep in mind that the "major service" on the 355 requires that the engine come out, and costs from $8000 to $12,000 (depending on what the issues are). The little plastic guide that the seat slides on (easily breaks) costs $2000 for the part. The foam that surrounds the exhaust cost $2500. You get the idea! Used 355's are inexpensive because the market has adjusted for the off-the-charts upkeep costs. A lot of people buy this car thinking that its a cheap way to get into Ferrari's. Unfortunately, the only thing that was cheap was the original purchase.

The 360 is more expensive in the used market, but considerably cheaper than the 355 to maintain. In the long run, it will cost you far less than the 355, and be a more modern car. You should give serious consideration to the 360. I speak from experience considering that I am very active in the Ferrari community and have owned the following: 355, 360, 430, 16M Scuderia.



Tim

 

I think there is an exaggeration by some here. I have a 355F1 since 2008, am second prioprietário. I live in Brazil, here the costs are very high, anything is very expensive. For example: A 355F1 here worth $ 200k dollars a F355 worth 180K dollars. A F12berlinetta 1.36 million dollars.

The ONLY thing that gives 355F1 more than the F355 is the PUMP, moreover, if you know USE and CARE will not give anything more. There are many people who do not know the right use F1 and this will give problem may be in 355.360 or 430. If you do not know how to use, will break.

Else, of ANY MAJOR SERVICE 355 has to come down the engine of the place, is not a privilege of F1. Mine has 14k kilometers and is a car that gives the same maintenance of 6speed.

 

I know the debate continues ... but at least we're taking about a Ferrari!