Yup, all the above have truth.
1. Ferrari is a business and go the way of the market.
2. the market is saying the F1 is more in demand, if not the Auto equiv. for the four-seaters.
3. It is a sellout, but was slowly making its way in the wave of 1&2
4. I like the stick but would I trade the Mondial T for a Valeo: Yes. Then again, I specifally wanted the older 456 GT for the front reverse scoops, the rear-bling air foil, thingie, and the 6-speed....NO AUTO.
5. I probably would opt for a F1 at some point, but only when they approach the price of very low price.
The F1 needs a proper learning curve to use properly or it can be harmed.
Standard: bullet proof with the sometime exception of a loose nut here and there due to improper/changed factory installations. Slapping them through the almost effortless gate is fun.
I've said it before, and I hope to be in the game for this but the front, 12 cylinder standard models are darn down in price. It's getting to the point that with a good mechanic and some DIY in there, the bargains found in these beautiful Pininfarina'n models, will be the new, Lussos of the future. Why.
no more 12 will be made without DFI
no more with standard gates,
no more with Pininfarina hey-day designs, and
most importantly: NONE, after the 456 with Enzo's direct touch.
they will be worth, what, the lousy 40-55k being touted now?!
Yup, gas problems or whatnot, they will be highly regarded and sought.
geesch, I'd pick them up while one could, get the parts, which are scattering about and getting remade as we speak [thinking Hill bearings etc.] and sort it out for the next few years to come.