Reply to "Pantera #7206 - GTS"

David,

I have an '86 GT5-S. Hagerty insured it without batting an eyelash and the premium is about $800 a year. Next year when the car is 25 years old, it will fall into the 'Antique' category and will cost less than half that to insure. If you get into an accident, let your insurance company worry about how it's going to get fixed. Metal shaping craftsmen can duplicate any body part!

To me, it is a dream to drive! The car handles like it's on rails. It can stop so suddenly, and without drama that I would worry about being rearended in the event I had to stop that car 'NOW'. The ride quality is superb. It takes bumps with grace. You would need to adjust the front alignment specs (David B -GT5- knows how) to eliminate the front tires from randomly jerking left or right when the front tires are moved more outboard (with aftermarket wheels). I drove it to Ontario and back (about 1000 miles roundtrip) in Sep. '08. I can sum it up by saying it was a very comfortable drive.

Pictures don't do the GT5-S (or any Pantera, really) justice! The low-width, and flow of the flares lulls you into staring at it endlessly. It is truly striking in person. I have a hard time walking away from it. Just looking at it makes me happy!

I don't drive mine as much as I'd like to because I have two young kids (7 & 5) that I like to spend all of my time with. It's a shame, because I really enjoy my time behind the wheel. I'm gonna drive it more this year, I swear!

Registering a 5-S in CA might be an issue due to emissions, but it's been done. Guys there would be better able to help you clear that hurdle. Parts are out there, but some 5-S specific parts may be harder to find.

I had a '74 before this one, and the '86 feels more refined. Keep in mind that this is just my experience, your mileage may vary.

Michael