[DeTomaso] Pantera Wanabee Question

[JDeRyke at aol.com]

In a message dated 2/9/08 7:44:32 AM, jerry_thom at cox.net writes:
snip.....
> However the first question I always ask before buying a car is....Do I fit? 
> Being 6'5" and 230 can be very limiting. So, does a big guy stand a chance 
> of fitting into an Italian car without graduating from an advanced yoga 
> program? 
> 
Panteras are undoubtably small sportscars, but there are things that can be 
done for us bigger guys (I'm 6'2" & 195 and fit comfortably with a helmet on!) 
to fit. First, there were several stock seats produced and the earliest 
version gave the most headroom. Second, its possible to drop the floorpan some 2" 
which lowers the entire seat; this is so common, many cars for sale already have 
this mod and all factory cars built after 1980 also had lowered pans. Third, 
the early seat assembly can be easily modified with new padding and 
upholstery, and   a simple home-made rake adjustment added to the back for more 
adjustability. Fourth, the brake, clutch & accelerator pedals attach to a cast plate 
under the dash, that extends into the front trunk; that plate can be shifted 
further forward with a spacer for longer-than-normal legs. Finally, the 
preceding mods address the drivers seat; there are at least two schemes available that 
modify the bubble between the seats to allow the passenger seat to move 4" 
further back, with the same rake adjustment, so you can be comfortable there 
too. My 5'4" wife shares the driving in our machine and a 6-hour drive to Las 
Vegas each year does not cramp either of us, in either position. 
The final thing you must realize is, ALL Italian-built cars are 
works-in-progress and need some customization to an owners' needs- that includes everything 
from Ferraris to FIATS! With a Pantera, there is no stigma attached to a 
modified car relative to a stone-stock one. In fact, upgrades of various types 
have been done to most of the Panteras you'll find, and the changes usually 
increase, not detract from, their value. At our National convention in Las Vegas in 
late April '08 will be 150-200 examples of various Panteras, and you're not 
just welcome- you're invited to attend! Some will be for sale, too.... Good 
luck- J DeRyke, co-owner of a '72 for 28+ years and still excited!



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