New Ferrari dealer word
July 30th, 2009 by Richard Aucock
FERRARI’S new 458 Italia has taken the motoring world by storm. But what’s the word from the UK’s car dealers?
Clive Sutton sells premium motors from his premises right next to Lords Cricket Ground. And is something of a Ferrari specialist.
His verdict? ‘This does look like a great step forward from the F430.’
He reckons the style, performance and traditional V8 Ferrari allure will help give the 458 Italia a headstart in the market – particularly as it’s more in line with what buyers expect from the brand.
‘I’ve found some traditional Ferrari buyers are not impressed by the California. They say it’s a great achievement for what it is – a 2+2 with a smart DSG gearbox – but don’t think it’s right for them.
‘They’ll be far more impressed by the 458. In terms of brand pedigree, this is much more what they expect. The purist will choose the 458 Italia, because of its mid/rear V8 engine and ’Dinoesque’ look.
‘Mind you, the California still sells for a significant premium, even in the current climate. I would thus expect the 458 to do the same – although I can’t be sure.’
Sutton’s uncertainty comes through the decline in used car values For 360 owners trading up to the 430, he explains, the deposit was already there in their current car.
However, ‘the serial returners will not like the part exchange values for the 430s. Values have declined, so the car alone may not be sufficient to cover the deposit on a 458.
‘It will thus be interesting what happens to lead times, and if main dealers will actually have to sell rather than take orders!
Either way, though, it’s a thumbs-up from one prestige car dealer. Feel free to share your thoughts on Ferrari’s new V8, too!
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Tags: 458 italia, california, clive sutton, f430, ferrari