[iexcelr8]

I've been an American horsepower guy all of my life, but am intrigued by an '02 Spyder for sale at Foreign Cars Italia in Greensboro, NC. I've spent the last few days searching this forum so that I could learn from the resident experts about Maserati in general and the Spyder CC in particular.

The link to the car is: http://foreigncarsitalia.cms.dealer...tm?vehicleId=07c090914046381e01445748a00ca747

The link for the Carfax report is: http://www.carfax.com/cfm/ccc_displayhistoryrpt.cfm?partner=DLR_3&vin=ZAMBB18A720007953&zipcode=

I also have the service and maintenance records from FCI since 2005 at 2,995 miles.

In short, it is a 3-owner car with 12,000 miles on it. Asking price is $44,900. Obviously, from my research on this forum and other places, I'm aware that I should expect not insignificant service and maintenance costs. I've also seen the suggested DIY pre-purchase inspection checklist posted in this forum. Great looking resource. In reviewing the records from FCI, there seems to have been a number of minor issues (e.g., rear differential leak, coolant temp and acceleration sensor failures, dash light failures, seat belt retractor failure, striker plates for trunk and center console out of alignment, key fob failure, CD changer failure, and convertible top operation failure). I've seen no evidence of engine/transmission/suspension issues except for a reference to "campaign 98," F1 gearbox electronics.

So, to the extent possible, I'd be grateful for any opinions on the Spyder from owners and any others in the know. How reasonable is the asking price? I'm thinking that there will be ample negotiating room in light of the current economy. I will confess that I'm a little concerned that the car has been through 3 owners, particularly given all of the "minor" issues I've described above -- it suggests to me a quality problem that I wouldn't expect from a high end vehicle. Are these issues more common with Spyders than I think?

Thanks for any insight.

Regards,
Chris

 

[Bcube]

From your research you know that the 2002 Spyder was the first year of the 4200. While the 4200's body is (mostly) a continuation of the 3200 produced in Europe - that model was was never a convertible. So the '02 Spyder is a "first" for almost everything - new motor, new drivetrain, new ragtop, etc. I would personally go with an '03 or newer. Major changes for '03 were suspension re-tuning, a glass rear window, and a hundred other small but significant production run changes/improvements that are made by every manufacturer during the course of a model year.

I think "enrico_spyder" is having the most issues with a '02 Spyder, but I believe he still likes his car. His opinion would be of the most value. You can search his user name for his posts.

 

[Maserati Blue]

I wouldn't buy it, its just too old.

Anything before 2004 (MANUFACTURE DATE, not first license date) is a gamble, since 2004 and newer manufactured Maseratis have major improvements.

Sure, many people will jump in to say how their 2002 car is great, but they'll be the ones who do a few thousand miles/kilometres per year.

You'll notice how the 2004 manufactured 4200 coupe/spider models have different wheels from the car you are looking at, that signifies the newer models. If i was you, i'd check the manufacturing date first before buying.

 

[paulkountz]

I purchased a 2003 Coupe GT from FCI this past summer. Hank Carpenter is a great salesman to work with--I have met him through numerous events in the Carolinas.

In regard to the pricing, their pricing was VERY flexible on my car. I think you should be able to get at least 5k off that price.

PM me if you would like my number and I can give you some additional insight if you do decide to begin negotiating with them for the spyder.

 

[flashgordon]

I have an '04 Spyder. I passed on the '02 because it has even worse cowl shake than the '04 - which is horrible. I don't think there is any real difference between an '03 and an '04 other than the addition of cup holders on the newer car. IMO - that car is way overpriced. I have seen similar '02s going in the mid thirties.

I am not sure how you drive, but if you are a "sports car" guy, budget at least $5K for new springs, brake pads/ lines, and mufflers (at a bare minimum). Without them the car is a mediocre performer.

Good luck.

 

[Kirk]

I agree that the car appears to be overpriced. Check out autotrader.com, cars.com and eBay to see what a car like this is priced at in general and subtract 10% off what anyone is asking on these sites to guess what they really sell for in this economy. I would guess more in the $35K range is fair for this one.

Case in point, here's a 2005 Spyder CC with fewer miles for less money!

http://www.maseratilife.com/forums/showthread.php?t=5707

As for a three owner car... in six years? I don't know. I'd be pretty leery of that.

 

[enrico_spyder]

Wouldn't buy

Hello,
I had my share of problems with my '02 but I still enjoy the car. Big part of the reason why i say that has to do with the price I paid for it which gives me room to cover for some extra works, which was around half of what you're looking at (different market, much higher mileage etc)
So my suggestion is to find as new as a spyder as your money can buy. with that budget (45k) you can buy better than '02.
Plus, I don't use the spyder as every day car... and have plenty of time to spend waiting for the tow truck
If you need a reliable car to use everyday, you're on a tight schedule or budget... don't go for any "old" italian car...

 

[iexcelr8]

Thanks to all

Thanks to everyone for your input. This is all very helpful. I've been convinced to pass on the '02, but will remain on the lookout for a newer Spyder. Again, I appreciate the insightful and helpful comments.

Chris

 

[Alchemyst]

love my '02

When I decided to get a Maserati I also wanted something newer than an '02 but couldn't find what I wanted except in an '02. That said I've had my Spyder with the 6 speed stick shift for some time now and I love it. Everybody tells me it has bad cowl shake and I reply wtf. My Spyder is as solid as a rock especially on the Tail of the Dragon. It's also blindingly fast. So my opinion is if you can find one at a reasonable price go for it - after all its still a MASERATI!

 

[Dolle Dolf]

I think that alchemyst is right. for the $$ these 02s and 03s are just unbelievable value. Just looked on ebay yesterday and my mouth fell open.

 

[danr1707]

I love my '02. It had just 6000 miles on it when I bought it. I could not pass that up.