[DeTomaso] NPC, Countach->Ferrari

[Jeff Detrich]

I seemed to have lit the fuse on this one with my recent statement "except
for the "I've got a Ferrari" factor." I meant no disrespect. Let me be on
record as saying that there are good Ferrari owners, at least here in
Dallas, as there are good Pantera, Mustang, and You-Name-It owners.
Generally, I like car people; they all have something to offer.

In spite of that, however, I still don't understand why the Pantera doesn't
get more attention. A well maintained Pantera is more fun to drive than a
308, 328, or 348. But you'd be hard pressed to get those other owners to
get in one and drive it for comparison. Consider for a moment, perhaps
there is a contra-argument that applies to Pantera owners that "they" don't
identify with.

In any case, I totally agree with Dr. Engles. It's worth repeating.

          "You struck a chord with the statement,"...the guys who do
their own wrenching would keep the Pantera."   I have a friend who
occasionally asks me if I wouldn't rather own a Ferrari.  *I always answer
no, I'd rather own a third Pantera and have the time to work on it.*  There
is something about the mechanical bonding (forgive this psychobabble) that
wrenching on a machine that gives something back to you rather than just
doing a job.   It somehow causes an immediate enjoyment, a delayed enjoyment
and an extended delight as the Pantera does what it was designed to do.
Inherent in the design is a simplicity (usually) that lends itself to our
"wrenching".   Perhaps some other cars lend themselves to that, but the
Pantera keeps my attention.  Sorry for the philosophizing."

                     Warmest regards,  Chuck Engles


Jeff (38 years with a Pantera and counting)
6559 and 6748

PS. On the other hand...
“I am opposed to millionaires, but it would be dangerous to offer me the
position.” Mark Twain