Monster used a prime example in another thread. David Yu, well-known contributor to EVO, entrepreneur and car enthusiast has owned Ferraris, will probably own another Ferrari (maybe even a 458) but currently owns and loves his GTR.
The GTR transcends classes where the predominant buyer mentality is driven by passion for automotive performance. In instances where tastes become more specific, discerning or snobbish even then only a primo badge will cut the mustard with high society. The GTR is exceptionally good value for money and for many a businessman this is as attractive a proposition as the less tangible badge snobbery that comes at a much higher price.
I am a badge snob [LOL - don't you all laugh now] actually. If I could afford a GTR - and, I'd probably have one given the means - I would certainly be lusting after Ferrari 458. Or even a 16M. It's the same reason why I won't buy a BMW until I can afford an M car. Until then, I'll make do with cars that are fit for purpose without breaking the bank. Same goes for the GTR - fit for purpose largely but by no means lacking in admirable attributes on the heritage, engineering, achievement and presence stakes.
After all, it's the person in the GTR that counts, not the GTR in the person. Stereotypes be damned.
As for the issue around Ferrari reliability. Again, fit for purpose.
But, having said that, car reliability on track days is far more a factor of mechanical sympathy than it is of the friction material compound and thickness in a clutch plate. Anecdotally, I religiously attend the local Ferrari Day at Kyalami Race Circuit year on year. Standing on the pit wall I've watched hundreds of Ferraris come past lap after lap and, interestingly, I've never witnessed a smokey clutch or brakes that are on fire, let alone an engine failure. A Ferrari Italia, treated with respect will be more reliable than a GTR that isn't. Witness the countless examples of destroyed transmissions that were used deliberately and excessively in launch control mode.
One of the key considerations in extending the longevity of wear-and-tear items during a track day is the use of regular and frequent cool down laps and pit lane stops to give brakes, tyres, clutches etc time to avoid overheating - which, simply destroys the serviceable lifespan. Don't ask me, ask PCValkyrie and other long-time track freaks* on this very board. *Said with endearment.
What's really cool about modern, track ready machinery such as the M3 DCT, GTR and 458 is that the transmissions no longer rely on human co-ord to actuate the clutch. Nowadays these high-tech dual clutch systems, tightly integrated with the engine management software, shift with an electro-mechanical precision that no human can match. This dramatically enhances the life of these systems compared with those that are operated by folks less than gifted in the motor-skills department.
The Ferrari 458 with its fantastic composite brakes, ultra high-revving engine (a real boon on a track), low weight and sophisticated transmission is as good a track tool as can be expected from a supercar such as this. Let's try to not mix the concepts of precision with delicacy. Flowers are delicate. Lace panties are delicate.
Are you one of those "Freedom fries" type of guy? 
