US cars versus European cars

As you all have seen from my postings I am starting to seach for my first Ferrari.
My friend has told me that it is important that I not end up with a Eurpoean car due to DOT problems and that no dealers will service european cars now.
Is this correct?
How do you ensure you are not buying a gray market car?
Thanks
Gary

Hi Gary,

the cars are tagged/stamped with US & Calif Door & Engine stickers.

So which model Ferrari isn't european? did they sneak a piece of Italy into the US without anyone finding out?

FYI Many dealers will treat you like crap if you don't buy only from them also....on one hand there is Ferrari the benevolent benifactor on another Ferrari the religion and on another there is Ferrari the Tyranical Business Monopoly....while there are some outstanding Dealers out there that treat owners & prospective owners very well, there are even more that are.... well...not so wonderful on about every front. If you plan on having dealer only service you would be well advised to find out how your local dealer treats all the various issues of customer satisfaction. I happen to be in an area where the dealer treats most very poorly, so I'm made fully aware of how an owners perceptions and expectations can be dashed "after they purchase" a car. If you are the type that is uncomfortable with Independents servicing your Ferrari a relationship should be established with your local dealer BEFORE buying any Ferrari.

Regards, JRV

Hi Gary...The vehicle's VIN number will tell if it's a Euro car or a U.S. car. It is very important to have the DOT paperwork in order, that's true. As far as services go, there may be fewer choices as far as mechanics/dealers willing to work on it, but you will still be able to get it done somewhere, not that big of a deal. In my opinion Euro cars are becoming more popular, and finally getting rid of the stigma that has haunted them for many years. I personally wouldn't have a problem buying a Euro car as long as the paperwork is in order. But as I said the market is smaller when it comes time to sell it or trade it in. But if the deal is sweet enough price-wise a Euro car can still be a good deal. I think a Euro car is good as long as you can do most of your own work. But since your looking to get your first Ferrari....I would suggest a U.S. car unless a Euro car is practically a given to you. This is just my opinion however. Good Luck on your search and keep us posted.

I may be in the minority here but I actually prefer Euro cars. Historically they have produced more power and are truer to the manufacturer's ideal than the stateside cars. As for the contemporary cars, they're all the same pretty much.

Nowadays the differences are so limited that conversion is no big deal. I'm guessing the stigma of the Euro car, as mentioned by Jeff, started with all of the conversions done on BB's and such. Poor work done because demand exceeded supply and a lot of fly-by-night operations opened and closed to satiate the market in the crazy 80's.

Cheers