Thinking of trading in my beloved GT3 for a late model 430. Any of you out there have experienced both rides(not track) and can lend some advice. Like I said I love my car and am probably looking for a reason to stop dreaming and realize what I've got. Thanks for your input.

 

Your GT3 is one of the most iconic, well rounded automobiles ever created. Not to mention, its everyday drivability/reliability/service requirements are better than the F430.

Nothing against the F430, it's a fantastic car, but like any Ferrari, they require a serious commitment (i.e. get your wallet ready). Although, I will say that F430 service costs are better than earlier Ferrari's. If money is no object and you don't mind the added upkeep costs vs. Porsche, I'd say go for it (you only live once). However, If it were me, I'd keep the Porsche and never look back.

 

I had an '07 GT3 and currently have an '07 F430 (manual). The GT3 was on the track a couple of times (easy going), but my cars are primarily road cars. I really have nothing bad to say about the GT3, I liked it a lot (except for the understeer). Best car for the money. That said, I like driving the F430 more. A few reasons why: I like the balanced, mid-engine feel, the engine response, the sound (though the GT3 sounds good, too) and the car's special looks, character and feel. Of course, a Scuderia is the more natural competitor, but it was out of my price range when I bought my 430 back in 2008.

The maintenance is a bit more expensive, but it's not unreasonable. Basically, it's annual fluid changes - oil change/brake-flush one year, then all-fluids changed the next. It just bounces back-and-forth till the major service somewhere around 30K miles (plugs, etc.). No timing belts to change (the chains last a long time). All other maintenance is normal wear-and-tear stuff. I bought the car with 1K miles and now have over 8K. I had two minor problems fixed under warranty (an e-diff control valve and an hvac ecu), but otherwise it's been rock-solid. I see the same Ferraris at C&C every weekend, old and new. When driven regularly and serviced properly, the cars are reliable. Don't forget the battery tender if you're not using it daily.

 

Thanks Paul well put.

 

Rob, Thanks for your reply, you answered the important questions.

 

I own both, I disagree with Paul, the 430 is easier, much easier to drive on the street. I agree with Rob, a little more expensive but not terribly more than the GT3.

I love my GT3 and it would eat the 430 on the track, but the 430 sounds better. And the 430 garners MUCH more attention. That said they both serve different purposes, and get to there in different ways, viva la difference!

 

Details on your Gt3?

 

not a bad problem to have. I enjoyed driving the 997 Gt3 more. And I have only experienced both cars in track settings, instructing at my local race track.

To me the Gt3 is more rewarding when at it's limit, a drivers car.