[DeTomaso] Vette vs. Pantera./SOUL-Dick Ruzzin.

[Dickruzzindesign at aol.com]

Ken,
I think that you touched on the source of "soul".

My interpretation follows:
The introduction of "soul" to a product like an automobile (Stingray or 
Pantera), is first expressed aesthetically by their designers (Bill Mitchell or Tom 
Jaarda). That aesthetic content can be called emotional character, it is 
expected and most visible in performance cars.

The aesthetic character can be called soul if it matches the performance 
character of the car, It is easily recognized by anyone that appreciates the 
excitement of speed, handling and uniqueness. Sedans have different qualities and 
markets to address, therefore different souls that Pantera owners probably will 
not bother paying attention to.
Some people will not acknowledge it, others will feel a very personal bond if 
they value highly the man / machine relationship.

My Mangusta has a "soul" that has captivated me for over forty years. It has 
driven me to keep it running, always ready for some kind of trip.

My C-6 has a different kind of soul, one side of it is quiet, relaxed   and 
comfortable. It's looks have excitement and dash, the reason is revealed when 
you put the pedal to the floor. Then you feel and hear the other side, a very 
different almost scary kind of beast.   


All the best,

Dick Ruzzin________________________dickruzzinDESIGN at aol.com
920 Whittier Rd.
Grosse Pointe Park, MI 48230
Home: 313-824-0539 / Cell: 313-300-9554



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