Ferrari Mailing List: Re: 355 is back home now

[Dennis Liu (BigHeadDennis]

Naweed wrote:

<snip>

>I am a bit surprised at the F355's suspension and steering.  The suspension
feels softer and the steering has too much power assist in my opinion, as
compared to my previous driver, Porsche 911 (996) Turbo.
However the V8 engine + Tubi exhaust note make up for the difference!

>What are recommendations for places to buy driving suits, helmets, and
other such gear?  Next stop is a track . . . 

===============

The suspension, IMHO, is actually noticeable stiffer than the stock
suspension on a 996tt.  The power steering assist has been slightly
controversial since the intro of the 355.  The 348 did not have power
assist, and feels great, but is something of a bear to manuever around the
driveway or parking lots at slow speeds, for some drivers, hence the
addition of power steering for the 355.  It's actually quite fine, once you
get used to it.  I find it about the same as a 996 C2, and perhaps the
difference you feel is due to the AWD system on the turbo.

As for suits, helmets and other race gear, (1) where do you live, and (2)
how much do you want to spend?  You can spend a LOT of money on very
expensive stuff, or spend a lot less on stuff that works just as well (if
it's Snell rated or SFI or FIA rated, well, then it's comparable; you're
paying extra for some finishing touches, perhaps saving some weight,
cosmetics/appearance, and the BRAND NAME).  Up to you and what your criteria
are....

Vty,

--Dennis