Reply to "Any good stories/advice for a rookie?"

Learn as much about the Pantera as you can, Because you are going to be asked a lot of questions about it. That is, when they catch up with you. I remember once, being stopped, and filling with fuel, and having no less than three different parties asking me "What Kinda Car is That?", in the timespan of five minutes.(I have NO I.D. badges on the car at all,except for the 'DeTomaso' plate under the rear). Drivers were even coming in off the street just to get a closer look and ask questions. Second, try not to be "Smug" as an owner, commanding attention is what these machines are all about, and they do it so well. It "Goes with the territory",and is the highest compliment we can receive. We are all lucky to have these beauties, and are previlaged to be allowed on any highway, in a 30 year old car with 3,4,5,Hundred or more horsepower. Drivers will "Mess" with you on the freeways, DO NOT allow yourself to get dragged into their Insanity. When YOU have the "Baddest" Machine on the Freeway, and "All the Power Every Hour", You DON"T have to Prove a thing!! Just remember you were Fortunate to even find a Company willing to take a chance on Insuring YOU, and we don't need our Premiums going higher or policies being cancalled. Especially in a car with NO bumpers. This could be used, by your Insurance Company as a reason to VOID your coverage if you are ever in an accident; because bumpers are covered by Federal laws. Lastly, it will take about a Year before that Ear to Ear Smile leaves your face. I believe, "Always show power, at the right time!!". That means out on the Interstates where there is plenty of room for mistakes, and NO pedestrians; and NOT in town, in residential areas. And NEVER in your own neighborhood on the street where you live. Your neighbors may someday be called as wittnesses, and you want them to remember that "He always drove it "Cool". I do welcome you as one of our newest Pilots, and when Sringtime comes go drive it as she was designed to be driven. And think about looking up and joining your local club. Pantera International is a great start. All the best, Marlin.

[This message has been edited by MARLIN JACK (edited 02-05-2004).]