Reply to "INFO needed on 'GTS' LONGCHAMP convesion please"

Hi Tai

The factory says there were 409 cars made (between 1973 and 1989), 395 coupes and 14 spyders. The factory spyders started about 1981 (series II cars), earlier ones were after market. There were 24 with manuals and I know of 6 RHD, there is probably more. I don't know how many GTS's were built, I would estimate 30-60, starting in 1981 with the series II cars (some early cars have been converted). I know of about 60 cars still running, I can send you a list if you are interested. I know of 3 cars for sale in the US and Europe always has some for sale, ocassionally one in Australia.

Check with Panteras by Wilkinson for the flares, or Roland Jaeckel in Germany. A lot of the parts are from the Pantera (electrical, gauges, front suspension/brakes) or other Ford cars (tans, shifter, steering column) it uses a Jag rear end, so parts are relatively easy to come by, except body and glass, which are very expensive. The GTS also had some small suspension changes, I haven't seen a detailed list of the differences.

With so few cars and so many differences its hard to give prices. I have seen poor quality cars sell arouund $10,000. There are a couple that have been for sale in the US for several years for around $45,000, which I think is more then they will ever sell for. Europe prices tend to be a little lower, I thik because they have more cars and they are driven more, so maybe not in as nice of conditoin.

I have used mine as a daily driver with no problems, the AC is a little weak on real hot days and the defrost & wipers are poor, same issues as the Pantera. Overall its a great car for the price and a lot of fun to drive. Not much chance of seeing another one on the road or at a show. Email me if you have any other questions, smmartin@myuw.net

Scott