Welcome new owners and members

[RWD]

Welcome to Panoz Life, feel free to introduce yourself here.

[Boxer]

Hi, do you have any pictures of a Panoz?

[RWD]

http://images.google.com/images?q=panoz&oe=utf-8&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&client=firefox-a&um=1&ie=UTF-8&sa=N&hl=en&tab=wi

:)

[Boxer]

Thanks. Do they sell in Europe?

[Ackmann]

Thanks. Do they sell in Europe?

I hear they're coming out with a new model. They will also build cars for owners at teh factory to your specs. The cockpit looks like you could have this car built as a left or right hand drive car. Don't know why you couldn't get one to europe. Tehy won the 2006 GT class at Le Mans in 2006 so might already have some European Connections.

[Boxer]

I hear they're coming out with a new model. They will also build cars for owners at teh factory to your specs. The cockpit looks like you could have this car built as a left or right hand drive car. Don't know why you couldn't get one to europe. Tehy won the 2006 GT class at Le Mans in 2006 so might already have some European Connections.

Just never seen one on the street in Europe. To be able to register it over here it would need to conform to the current regulations.

[thebr0wn0ne]

hi im new here as well and i was curious about any panoz sponsorships..if you guys could help me out that'd be great :D

[Ackmann]

Not sure, but I assume you mean for racing. John Leverett at Panoz Development is in charging marketing. Do you own a Panoz Race car? I would think that Panoz will be a little more active next year after they release a new model to help promote sales. Good luck.

[99PanozAIV]

Hi all,

I just found this board. I have a 1999 Panoz AIV roadster, gloss black with tan interior, one of 8 made in 1999. I am the second owner and have had it for going on 4 years. I bought it from Marshall Goldman Motor Sales and Leasing in Ohio.

We do a lot of weekend drives, ice cream runs, regular cruise-ins, some car shows. No actual track use yet, although that's still an option. I'd like to do a few 1/4 mile runs at the local track but no roll bar presents a problem.

I hang out mostly on www.modularfords.com. It is THE website for the engines we have in our cars and there are really some top notch people there. I do plan on doing a few more mods if I can get my act together. They include:

--JBA tubular exhaust manifold
--J&S Ultrasafeguard Vampire with dual monitor
--Convert intake to short runner and do IMRC delete
--Accusump accumulator (bought but not installed)
--Dual Stebel 139 db air horns (installed but not wired yet) for the deer around here (every car I've owned here has had deer impact except this one).
-- Meziere electronic water pump (maybe, undecided yet)
-- Modular Performance 4V cam timing kit
-- 3.73 rear end
-- custom aggressive dyno tune by Woodbine Motorsports
-- I run 93 octane with Torco Mach accelerator, Mobil 1 oil and Redline fluids every where else

If any of your are in MD, let me know.

[Ackmann]

Welcome to Panoz Life and happy to have you involved. WOW, is all I have to say about your list of things your planning on doing. You sure seem to have done your home work. I know the AIV's are already a handful of power, and your plans will surely take it to a whole new level. Would love to see pictures of any projects you take on as it will help boost confidence for others to play as well.

[beave4eva]

Hi, do you have any pictures of a Panoz?

ahhahahahaha

[TIMEFLY]

I found this site today , i have a 2001 esprante , i have had several problems , check engine light evap leak , coolant leaks , fuel pump shut off tripped while going down the road i reset no further problems , i do most maintenance myself as we are in a rural area far from any thing , i have trouble with my top when down it seems to be stuck down i have to assist it to go up takes several tries i have not been able to find the cause , any help would be great , i have driven the car about 3000 miles this year , i really enjoy it , very nice on open roads here . Thank you walt

[Ackmann]

I found this site today , i have a 2001 esprante , i have had several problems , check engine light evap leak , coolant leaks , fuel pump shut off tripped while going down the road i reset no further problems , i do most maintenance myself as we are in a rural area far from any thing , i have trouble with my top when down it seems to be stuck down i have to assist it to go up takes several tries i have not been able to find the cause , any help would be great , i have driven the car about 3000 miles this year , i really enjoy it , very nice on open roads here . Thank you walt

I agree that open country roads with the top down is the best. Very seldom due you hear problems with the cars mechanics. I to had a check engine evap light come on but found it was just a loose fuel cap. The check engine light stayed on until I disconnected the battery. (photos on the site). The top problems kind of sounds like you may have a problem with either a convertable top cylinder or the hydaulic pump for the top. I have photos from where I replaced the cylinder and bleed the hydraulics in a doc thats just too large for this site so far, but I would be happy to email you them if you PM me with your email address. Happy to have you on the site. We found the Panoz is a great car that just needs to develop a forum to support it and here it is.

PS Post a pic of your car.

[TIMEFLY]

I agree that open country roads with the top down is the best. Very seldom due you hear problems with the cars mechanics. I to had a check engine evap light come on but found it was just a loose fuel cap. The check engine light stayed on until I disconnected the battery. (photos on the site). The top problems kind of sounds like you may have a problem with either a convertable top cylinder or the hydaulic pump for the top. I have photos from where I replaced the cylinder and bleed the hydraulics in a doc thats just too large for this site so far, but I would be happy to email you them if you PM me with your email address. Happy to have you on the site. We found the Panoz is a great car that just needs to develop a forum to support it and here it is.

PS Post a pic of your car.

my e-mail is mainstreet305@frontiernet.net
i was able to reset the check engine light , i replaced the gas cap and the light came back on , decided to try a better quality cap it has run about 300 miles with no light . it is winter so will not get it out until spring . thank you for the reply . walt

[TIMEFLY]

has anyone used a bbk throttle body , it looks like a bolt on and adds 15 to 20 hp if the adds are correct .

[Rarity]

has anyone used a bbk throttle body , it looks like a bolt on and adds 15 to 20 hp if the adds are correct .

I installed one last year, Bolts right up takes about 15 minutes. not sure what results you will have. My Panoz has a JRD RS Package so i did it to get more forced Induction Air into the Intake. I know they have two models 62 MM and 65MM. i will see which one I have, the difference is one of them you have to alter the intake to make it work. it is worth the price of admission...

www.brothersperformance.com

[Rarity]

The Model that bolts right up is BBK1705 62MM

[PanozBob]

The Model that bolts right up is BBK1705 62MM

So someone needs to tell me if this works. More Power?

[Rarity]

it works more air in more HP out !

[PanozGTLM]

Allow me to introduce myself, I am on my 3rd Panoz. My introduction to Panoz was in 1997 when my Brother-in-law became their South Florida dealer "Sterling Motorcars". I took a Black AIV out for a spin in the Fort Lauderdale area and FELL IN LOVE. After a long love affair with a 1988 911 coupe ended I became the 2nd owner of a 1997 Red AIV with a custom checkered interior. I was forced to get rid of the car due to family matters (the wife hated the car) I was fortunate enough to trade it in on a 2001 Esperante Titanium/grey with a black top. I took the car to the factory for all the necessary updates and the car ran like a champ. Then one fall day in 2006 I found a brand new triple black Esperante GTLM Convertible for sale and yep you guessed it "I had to have it". The 2001 was sold to the former Panoz dealer in Stamford CT. That’s my current car it too has been to the factory to be updated and to let Johan @ JRD tinker with. I will post some pictures of all 3 cars soon. It’s great to finally meet other Panoz owners I really felt alone out here in NJ.

[PanozBob]

Allow me to introduce myself, I am on my 3rd Panoz. My introduction to Panoz was in 1997 when my Brother-in-law became their South Florida dealer "Sterling Motorcars". I took a Black AIV out for a spin in the Fort Lauderdale area and FELL IN LOVE. After a long love affair with a 1988 911 coupe ended I became the 2nd owner of a 1997 Red AIV with a custom checkered interior. I was forced to get rid of the car due to family matters (the wife hated the car) I was fortunate enough to trade it in on a 2001 Esperante Titanium/grey with a black top. I took the car to the factory for all the necessary updates and the car ran like a champ. Then one fall day in 2006 I found a brand new triple black Esperante GTLM Convertible for sale and yep you guessed it "I had to have it". The 2001 was sold to the former Panoz dealer in Stamford CT. That’s my current car it too has been to the factory to be updated and to let Johan @ JRD tinker with. I will post some pictures of all 3 cars soon. It’s great to finally meet other Panoz owners I really felt alone out here in NJ.

Yes, Glad to see another panoz guy on the forum. Sounds like you have probably more knowledge about panoz ownership then many of us on the site and hope you'll share with us as you can. I found the site via google about 6 month ago I guess. It isn't as active as many other car sites but very glad it is here for us Panoz Guys.

I wish there was another way to get the word out but I have seen the activity grow a little each month so who knows, with a new car out from Panoz maybe we will see some renewed interest in the Panoz Cars.

WELCOME!!!

[Ackmann]

Allow me to introduce myself, I am on my 3rd Panoz. My introduction to Panoz was in 1997 when my Brother-in-law became their South Florida dealer "Sterling Motorcars". I took a Black AIV out for a spin in the Fort Lauderdale area and FELL IN LOVE. After a long love affair with a 1988 911 coupe ended I became the 2nd owner of a 1997 Red AIV with a custom checkered interior. I was forced to get rid of the car due to family matters (the wife hated the car) I was fortunate enough to trade it in on a 2001 Esperante Titanium/grey with a black top. I took the car to the factory for all the necessary updates and the car ran like a champ. Then one fall day in 2006 I found a brand new triple black Esperante GTLM Convertible for sale and yep you guessed it "I had to have it". The 2001 was sold to the former Panoz dealer in Stamford CT. That’s my current car it too has been to the factory to be updated and to let Johan @ JRD tinker with. I will post some pictures of all 3 cars soon. It’s great to finally meet other Panoz owners I really felt alone out here in NJ.

Glad to have you onboard Panoz Life. Can you post a seperate attachment on one of your post of your Esperante? Looks like a cool pic but it is smaller than I want to check it out closer.

Welcome Again and happy to see you here.

[Searover]

I had been researching Lotus Sevens - finally realized I did not fit - 6'1" 250# 60+. When I discovered the better and bigger Panoz AIV Roadster I got excited. Still trying to see one live. I live in South Florida but am in Persian Gulf till May. Anyone my size have a problem with in/out of the Roadster?
Are there any things to that are above and beyond 'normal' used car buying I should worry about?

Thanks

[LeManns67]

I wish I could help but only have experience with the Esperante. I'm sure one or two of the Roadster gus on here will give you a heads up soon.

[don fryer]

Hi. I just registered as a new member. My name is Don Fryer. I have an '04 Esperante GT. Excellent condition, very low miles, full provenance. I have a nice car show presentation display including a Summary Chart and a detailed 3-ring binder. I detail the car before the show and keep it touched up during the show. I stay with the car. 1 of only 14 GTs ever built; 1 of only 2 (convertibles) in the Pewter Metallic. Lots of interest, questions, and picture taking from spectators at shows. But....I'm not winning, and against lesser competition. Most recently, lost to a Lotus Exige. Not detailed, no presentation, didn't even raise the hood or stay with the car. I am told that the problem is the typical car show categories, i.e. that Panoz does not fit into. I was required to select the entry category; the judges typically are not present at the registration tent. I selected Exotic/Foreign simply because it was the closest match, knowing obviously that the Esperante GT was exotic but not foreign. The other categories were like "Import/Domestic Sport Compact", "Late Model Muscle Car (post-'72)", etc. What are other Panoz owners doing to win car shows and what do I need to do to start winning? Thank you, and I look forward to actively participating in panozlife.

[99PanozAIV]

I had been researching Lotus Sevens - finally realized I did not fit - 6'1" 250# 60+. When I discovered the better and bigger Panoz AIV Roadster I got excited. Still trying to see one live. I live in South Florida but am in Persian Gulf till May. Anyone my size have a problem with in/out of the Roadster?
Are there any things to that are above and beyond 'normal' used car buying I should worry about?

Thanks

I'd definitely recommend sitting in one before you take the plunge. There are not many adjustments and it's a snug fit. I'm 5'10" and 200 (62). My first concern, and it was legitimate, is that the footwell is very narrow and my EEEEE width feet don't help. I have gotten used to one pair of New Balance shoes and always wear them when driving the car.

[Ackmann]

Hi. I just registered as a new member. My name is Don Fryer. I have an '04 Esperante GT. Excellent condition, very low miles, full provenance. I have a nice car show presentation display including a Summary Chart and a detailed 3-ring binder. I detail the car before the show and keep it touched up during the show. I stay with the car. 1 of only 14 GTs ever built; 1 of only 2 (convertibles) in the Pewter Metallic. Lots of interest, questions, and picture taking from spectators at shows. But....I'm not winning, and against lesser competition. Most recently, lost to a Lotus Exige. Not detailed, no presentation, didn't even raise the hood or stay with the car. I am told that the problem is the typical car show categories, i.e. that Panoz does not fit into. I was required to select the entry category; the judges typically are not present at the registration tent. I selected Exotic/Foreign simply because it was the closest match, knowing obviously that the Esperante GT was exotic but not foreign. The other categories were like "Import/Domestic Sport Compact", "Late Model Muscle Car (post-'72)", etc. What are other Panoz owners doing to win car shows and what do I need to do to start winning? Thank you, and I look forward to actively participating in panozlife.

Welcome to Panoz Life. happy to have you on the site.. Good question and your timing is perfect for me as I was thinking of entering mine into the Forest Grove Concourse de Elegance in Portland this year. I have emailed the show asking where to place it under and as of today I haven't received a reply. I think I'll need to follow up this week. Last year I saw a AIV listed under American Sports Cars, but I didn't see that as a catagory this year. The theme this year is the romance of the convertable, so I would think the Esperante would be a nice fit.

Interested to see some pictures of your display and presentation as this would give me some ideas for my presentation.

I am going to start a new thread Showing your Panoz under the Library section as a reference guide. Please provide any knowledge that you have as it will help any of us who plan on taking on this experience of SHOWING our cars.

Good Subject!!!!

[don fryer]

Ackmann,

Thanks for responding. I just got timed out after drafting a lengthy response to you and then losing it (my response, that is). This time I'll be brief. No pics as you requested, but as a description of my presentation, I can say that I have a large chart conspicuously under the hood. With bullet points like "Rare & Exotic American-Built Luxury Performance Sports Car", "1 of only 14 GT's Built", and stuff like Panoz Motorsports, Engine, Performance, Body & Chassis & Carbon Fiber Superstructure, Suspension, Brakes, Wheels, Tires, Full Provenance on the car, etc.

Then I have a detailed 3-ring binder, with each page inserted in plastic cover sheets. A nice binder cover with logos, etc. Contents such as pictures, more details on the car's many features & options, the Press Release announcing the GT model, the Build Sheet, Sales Brochure, service records, and then several pages about Panox in general (Co history, CarandDriver article from July '01, Panoz Motorsports, Road Atlanta, ALMS, Chateau Elan, etc).

I even wear my Panoz hat and polo shirt.

This is all "very well & good", but I think the issue is not fitting into typical car show judging categories. Any help on that?

[Ackmann]

Ackmann,

Thanks for responding. I just got timed out after drafting a lengthy response to you and then losing it (my response, that is). This time I'll be brief. No pics as you requested, but as a description of my presentation, I can say that I have a large chart conspicuously under the hood. With bullet points like "Rare & Exotic American-Built Luxury Performance Sports Car", "1 of only 14 GT's Built", and stuff like Panoz Motorsports, Engine, Performance, Body & Chassis & Carbon Fiber Superstructure, Suspension, Brakes, Wheels, Tires, Full Provenance on the car, etc.

Then I have a detailed 3-ring binder, with each page inserted in plastic cover sheets. A nice binder cover with logos, etc. Contents such as pictures, more details on the car's many features & options, the Press Release announcing the GT model, the Build Sheet, Sales Brochure, service records, and then several pages about Panox in general (Co history, CarandDriver article from July '01, Panoz Motorsports, Road Atlanta, ALMS, Chateau Elan, etc).

I even wear my Panoz hat and polo shirt.

This is all "very well & good", but I think the issue is not fitting into typical car show judging categories. Any help on that?

The Timing out thing has bit me more than a few times. "%$@)(*$%#!!!!"

I hope others will share about their experiences. The Esperante in the July/01 Car & Driver is my car and I was thinking about enlarging a copy of the cover to a poster board to place with the car. Still gathering my knowledge of the showing routine.

[JPardue]

Hello,

I met Danny Panoz during 1989, and was present for and in the photograph the unveiling of the original protoype of the Panoz Roadster. 125 people attended, mostly automotive press. Danny hired me to design the wiring system for the early Roadsters, and I became part of the original six man team that built those cars. My friend Ray, the 7th Panoz employee, owns the prototype and three of the first serial-numbered Roadsters.

Danny drove the first production Roadster at dawn on a hot Saturday morning. Having stayed there all night working with him to finish it, he came back and made me drive it. I was the second person to ever drive a porduction Panoz auomobile. Thank you Danny.

It is amazing that Danny Panoz was able to start a car company from scratch on the budget he had to work with. Never met anyone that works as hard or believes as strongly in what he is doing. The focus and intensity he has is never written about. Those early cars had the stainless steel chassis and the cast iron 5.0 liter Mustang GT powertrains. Far as I know, its the first car ever sold that passed EPA with glasspacks from the factory.

None of those first ten cars had a top, or an option for one. No heater, no radio, just a defroster, a 5-speed, and a key. I got to drive every one of them, sometimes to shows, for sales, parades, and in the first rally. It brought me to the joy of an automobile - which is driving, hearing the engine purr, seeing the tires turn and experiencing the road.

I built and installed an optional theft-deterrent system on many of the cars, a clever system still in use. When Autoweek put the Roadster on the cover in the early 90's, I bought a box of that issue. Still have 50 copies or more, and if you are trying to show a Panoz you might want one.

Of the original employees, it seems I'm the only one that is a writer. I a have a few photos and some video footage from back then. Recently have wondered if writing a book about those years would be of any interest to the real Panoz fans out there. Commentary welcomed, I have asked some of the guys about a little reunion to relive those days. If it happens, we will videotape it. Not sure where all the original guys are these days.

Danny's father got the first supercharged Roadster. "Vlasic Green" was the color and the SVO engine ran with a monstrous fury. Fitted with a Kenne-Belle blower with welded and smoothed hood blips (aluminum aircraft parts) for clearance, Mike "Crawdad" the body and paint man named it the "Atomic Pickle" after a blast in it.

When Danny pitched building the first Esperante to his father, I used my computer to assemble the inital layout and proposal. Made two copies and I still have one on hand. If you are going to show an Esperante you might email me and see if something of interest is in that book, it reveals of a history and a timeline of the car that is simply not available elsewhere.

Thanks for having me.

[Ackmann]

Hello,

I met Danny Panoz during 1989, and was present for and in the photograph the unveiling of the original protoype of the Panoz Roadster. 125 people attended, mostly automotive press. Danny hired me to design the wiring system for the early Roadsters, and I became part of the original six man team that built those cars. My friend Ray, the 7th Panoz employee, owns the prototype and three of the first serial-numbered Roadsters.

Danny drove the first production Roadster at dawn on a hot Saturday morning. Having stayed there all night working with him to finish it, he came back and made me drive it. I was the second person to ever drive a porduction Panoz auomobile. Thank you Danny.

It is amazing that Danny Panoz was able to start a car company from scratch on the budget he had to work with. Never met anyone that works as hard or believes as strongly in what he is doing. The focus and intensity he has is never written about. Those early cars had the stainless steel chassis and the cast iron 5.0 liter Mustang GT powertrains. Far as I know, its the first car ever sold that passed EPA with glasspacks from the factory.

None of those first ten cars had a top, or an option for one. No heater, no radio, just a defroster, a 5-speed, and a key. I got to drive every one of them, sometimes to shows, for sales, parades, and in the first rally. It brought me to the joy of an automobile - which is driving, hearing the engine purr, seeing the tires turn and experiencing the road.

I built and installed an optional theft-deterrent system on many of the cars, a clever system still in use. When Autoweek put the Roadster on the cover in the early 90's, I bought a box of that issue. Still have 50 copies or more, and if you are trying to show a Panoz you might want one.

Of the original employees, it seems I'm the only one that is a writer. I a have a few photos and some video footage from back then. Recently have wondered if writing a book about those years would be of any interest to the real Panoz fans out there. Commentary welcomed, I have asked some of the guys about a little reunion to relive those days. If it happens, we will videotape it. Not sure where all the original guys are these days.

Danny's father got the first supercharged Roadster. "Vlasic Green" was the color and the SVO engine ran with a monstrous fury. Fitted with a Kenne-Belle blower with welded and smoothed hood blips (aluminum aircraft parts) for clearance, Mike "Crawdad" the body and paint man named it the "Atomic Pickle" after a blast in it.

When Danny pitched building the first Esperante to his father, I used my computer to assemble the inital layout and proposal. Made two copies and I still have one on hand. If you are going to show an Esperante you might email me and see if something of interest is in that book, it reveals of a history and a timeline of the car that is simply not available elsewhere.

Thanks for having me.

John, you made my day with your post today. Very cool to have someone from the early days here to share and correct reports and history.

Pictures, Pictures, Pictures. Put me down for one of the first autographed copies of your book if you write one. Please post what you can as it is always fun to read about.

[PanozGTLM]

John, you made my day with your post today. Very cool to have someone from the early days here to share and correct reports and history.

Pictures, Pictures, Pictures. Put me down for one of the first autographed copies of your book if you write one. Please post what you can as it is always fun to read about.

Ditto! John you are a valuable addition to the Panoz Life family. I would love to see the Esperante pitch material you have. My brother-in-law was "Sterling Motors" in Ft Lauderdale he was the South Florida Panoz dealer and we both attended the unveiling of the Esperante at the NY auto show and I still have the press package that was given out that day.

Thank you

From A Certified Panoz NUT

[PanozGTLM]

This is for those of you that never had the pleasure of going to the factory.

[PanozGTLM]

I will look at home I know that I have more. . .

[JPardue]

Nice to be welcomed to your group.

Over the coming weeks, I will start to go into my Panoz archives. Digital cameras were not available when we started. I'm hoping to get to Georgia this summer with my big scanner and see if the original guys will share photos we took, get them in digital form.

I am trying to find a working 8mm Handycam video camera or an 8mm video deck. I had a Sony back then and still have the tapes, need to digitize these. On VHS I have the first ever television news clip shot at the factory, and in it you can see us building cars.

I left the factory before the first production Esperante was built, and just as the AIV Roadsters came into production. Some of the guys like Joey (who was the youngest of us and is the man behind JAMCO) stayed on many years and would know all about the Esperante.

As with any story, there are at least two sides to it. The factory and the family are concerned with public relations, but those of us that worked there know a different story, its all good just different.

Jon Pardue
Sarasota, Florida

[Tampa1of176]

Greetings All,
Just came across this forum and I'm glad I did. Since as many of you already know, not many people know about Panoz out there. Nice to be able to come to a place to find "like" minds. I have a 98/99 AIV Roadster. I say 98/99 because even though it's titled as a 98, the Panoz factory used this particular car to try out the changes for the 99 model. So my rims and interior changes all match the 99. Hopefully down the road this means something, but if not, still like the layout better. I've only done two upgrades, a chip and changing the gear ratio to a 3.55. I don't think the chip did much but the gearing sure did. If there's anyone in the Tampa Bay area, please drop me a line.
Thanks,
Tom

[Ackmann]

I will look at home I know that I have more. . .

Very Nice!!!!

I haven't been back to the factory. Think I may go back next year as they ramp up more on the Abruzzi. Would be reluctant now as I'm sure they're in high gear to make showing at Le Mans.

[Ackmann]

Greetings All,
Just came across this forum and I'm glad I did. Since as many of you already know, not many people know about Panoz out there. Nice to be able to come to a place to find "like" minds. I have a 98/99 AIV Roadster. I say 98/99 because even though it's titled as a 98, the Panoz factory used this particular car to try out the changes for the 99 model. So my rims and interior changes all match the 99. Hopefully down the road this means something, but if not, still like the layout better. I've only done two upgrades, a chip and changing the gear ratio to a 3.55. I don't think the chip did much but the gearing sure did. If there's anyone in the Tampa Bay area, please drop me a line.
Thanks,
Tom

Welcome Tom,

Glad you found us and joined the forum. I've heard from a few guys here that they have changed the rear end gears and it is making me think it may be worth considering. What kind of Cash was it? Sounds like it should be quite resonable enough.

[PanozBob]

Greetings All,
Just came across this forum and I'm glad I did. Since as many of you already know, not many people know about Panoz out there. Nice to be able to come to a place to find "like" minds. I have a 98/99 AIV Roadster. I say 98/99 because even though it's titled as a 98, the Panoz factory used this particular car to try out the changes for the 99 model. So my rims and interior changes all match the 99. Hopefully down the road this means something, but if not, still like the layout better. I've only done two upgrades, a chip and changing the gear ratio to a 3.55. I don't think the chip did much but the gearing sure did. If there's anyone in the Tampa Bay area, please drop me a line.
Thanks,
Tom

Welcome Tom,

Good to have another owner on the site. Looks like we have a few new owner/members finding the site each month. With low productions it won't ever be as big as Ferrari, Porsche or Corvette forums; but isn't that why we chose to own the Panoz anyways.

[Rarity]

Very Nice!!!!

I haven't been back to the factory. Think I may go back next year as they ramp up more on the Abruzzi. Would be reluctant now as I'm sure they're in high gear to make showing at Le Mans.

More than High Gear its 24/7 until Le Mans

[PanozGTLM]

More than High Gear its 24/7 until Le Mans

When I was there a year ago it was like pulling teeth and no one was allowed to go into the factory. At that time they said they were moving things around to start production on the Mark II. I guess that was the original name for the Abruzzi.

[Rarity]

When I was there a year ago it was like pulling teeth and no one was allowed to go into the factory. At that time they said they were moving things around to start production on the Mark II. I guess that was the original name for the Abruzzi.

No the Mark II will still be available it will be based on a Ford Drive-train..

[Rarity]

119The way the factory is designed they can do almost anything as long as it can be built in a Modular form. They have another product out there and they all can be run on the same line...

http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=48568848520

[Tampa1of176]

Welcome Tom,

Glad you found us and joined the forum. I've heard from a few guys here that they have changed the rear end gears and it is making me think it may be worth considering. What kind of Cash was it? Sounds like it should be quite resonable enough.

I had it done about a year ago in a local speed shop (Ramsey's) and want to say it was in the $500-$700 range if I remember right. It did add a little "giddy-up" and is probably the cheapest way to get a performance upgrade. I've thought about adding the Bell supercharger but have not followed through with it. What I really need is a roll bar. Just haven't found a local company that wants to cut into the Panoz body.

[GotPanoz]

After I acquired my Esperante several years ago I was somewhat surprised to find my search for a Panoz forum was unsuccessful. Now after doing a Google search for the Abruzzi I'm pleased to have found this forum where I don’t have to explain exactly what is a Panoz. Even here in car crazy southern California, speaking to knowledgeable car guys and non enthusiasts alike, I must inform them what Panoz is all about when they ask "nice car,what is this?". Even my car insurance agent had to take a full day to figure it out. But you here know all about that. My car is a 2003, which returned to the factory in 2005 for some updates. I have a few questions which I’ll post in another thread. Thanks.

[Rarity]

After I acquired my Esperante several years ago I was somewhat surprised to find my search for a Panoz forum was unsuccessful. Now after doing a Google search for the Abruzzi I'm pleased to have found this forum where I don’t have to explain exactly what is a Panoz. Even here in car crazy southern California, speaking to knowledgeable car guys and non enthusiasts alike, I must inform them what Panoz is all about when they ask "nice car,what is this?". Even my car insurance agent had to take a full day to figure it out. But you here know all about that. My car is a 2003, which returned to the factory in 2005 for some updates. I have a few questions which I’ll post in another thread. Thanks.

Welcome Got Panoz, We have answers!

[Hilly]

Hey everyone,

Just registered, glad to be here, and I admittedly have lots to learn about the Panoz!

I have been increasingly smitten by the Panoz marquee. I currently own a Noble M12GTO, a car that I (for one) see parallels to with Panoz.

There's are two or three Panoz owners that I know of here on Long Island so it's rare I see one.

Anyway, I look forward to hanging here!

Hilly
Dix Hills, NY

[Boxer]

Hey everyone,

Just registered, glad to be here, and I admittedly have lots to learn about the Panoz!

I have been increasingly smitten by the Panoz marquee. I currently own a Noble M12GTO, a car that I (for one) see parallels to with Panoz.

There's are two or three Panoz owners that I know of here on Long Island so it's rare I see one.

Anyway, I look forward to hanging here!

Hilly
Dix Hills, NY

Is yours a US sourced Noble or did you bring it in from the UK?

[LeManns67]

Welcome to the forum Hilly. I have to say yes the Nobel is one bad ass car. Please post a couple of pics. I have the Nobel in th eback of my mind as another car I would like to add to the stable some day. I believe the Nobel are made with a couple of different engines platforms? What do you have and please educate us about the specs and ownership experience.

[Hilly]

Is yours a US sourced Noble or did you bring it in from the UK?

It's NUS0021, meaning Noble United States chassis #21. I did NOT originally import/build it (or rather, had it "assembled", as almost no one domestically has actually put their own cars together). Now that I think about it, though, I've certainly nearly REbuilt it since I got it!

Here are a few pics...

[Hilly]

Welcome to the forum Hilly. I have to say yes the Nobel is one bad ass car. Please post a couple of pics. I have the Nobel in th eback of my mind as another car I would like to add to the stable some day. I believe the Nobel are made with a couple of different engines platforms? What do you have and please educate us about the specs and ownership experience.

Thanks LeManns, good to be here.

Yeah, no doubt it's bad ass! It's been a very fun car though certainly a bit of a 'challenge' to own as well. I often say it's a car of "highs and lows" - meaning, when it's 'on' it's on and when it's not 'on' it is admittedly a bit frustrating.

I've had three major issues with the car since I got it - electrical as I purchased it (quickly cleared up and paid for by the former owner), engine tuning when I found out from the tuner who originally installed the engine that it had been tuned for C16 race gas (!), and over this past winter, a rebuilt trannie.

The good news is that while I see my fellow New York City area exotics owners dealing with similar issues from their 'reliable' factory Porches and Lambos and Ferraris, my repair bills are a fraction of theirs due to the relative simplicity of the Noble design and parts sourcing.

Speaking of which, like with Panoz, the Noble benefits from a great Ford connection. The standard engine is the Duratec 3.0l V6 (pretty much the same engine that's in my daily driver Contour SVT and the family hauling Windstar minivan). In the case of the Noble it's built up by AER in Texas and gets fitted with twin Garrett turbos (T25s standard though mine is upgraded with T28s). Base HP is 425 at the crank; in its heyday, mine was dynoed at 427 at the wheels (on the race juice), though it's since been detuned to something more compassionate to the engine and drivetrain.

As for your question about engines, all the M12 and M400s have the twin-turbo V6 described above, though MANY people tell me all the time they know or have heard of someone who's put in a different engine (I don't believe 'em). What confuses things is that the new Noble model, the M600 (developed since company founder Lee Noble left a few years ago) is using a Volvo-sourced V8. Also, the legendary Ultima, another car Lee Noble had a major hand in developing, primarily uses V8 LS2 engines. So that adds even more confusion. Oh, the new and improved Noble - redubbed Rossion as part of the buyout by the former U.S. importer of Nobles - uses the same V6 as the Noble. So if you're not a little confused at this point, you're not reading close enough!:confused:;)

[LeManns67]

Very, very nice. I really like the style of the car. Looks like you run with a few others with solid toys as well. It's what it's all about.

[Fluxing]

Howdy! I'm late in the purchasing process for a 2004 Esperante. If all goes well, I'll own one in a week. I'm glad I found this forum, I need to do my homework before I write a check for a car I've never seen in person before. I'll scour the forum for what I'm looking for before I pelt people with questions.

Just curious - any Panoz owners in Colorado?

[Fluxing]

I know I just joined today, but I may have some hints about car shows. I own a remanufactured Delorean and attend about 25 car shows a year. While I've won some plaques and trophies, it's not as often as I should. I'm not being conceited, but the Delorean (like a Panoz) is a rare car and should trump most of the stuff that wins awards at shows.

Two things affect your chances at a car show: the category you're in and the car "awareness" of the judges. I would imagine that a Panoz has the same troubles as a Delorean when getting categorized...sports car? Sedan? Custom? By Model Year? If the show you're in doesn't have a separate Mustang category, you're hosed. Americans like Mustangs, and horsepower could be its own separate category. You could have the rarest sports car made at a show, and if a current-year Mustang is next to you, you won't even place. If that Mustang has any engine upgrades, that car will win several awards by itself. I'm not trying to be a jerk, I'm just telling what what 2+ years of shows has shown me. Corvettes could have their own shows!

My favorite car show experience was last year where my Delorean (in excellent condition, btw), a Sunbeam Tiger and a new Porche Boxster were all in the "Import" category. My own auto club members picked the Boxster for the trophy! The Boxter was so new that it hadn't even had the oil changed yet. A Sunbeam Tiger is even more rare than a Delorean and should've won. Most automobile judges pick the last thing they see with no regard for rarity, condition or contribution to the automotive world. I suppose at this show I'm talking about I could've purchased a new Nissan Quest and stood a good chance of winning the Import category.

I go to most shows to show my car, meet other car people and eat things bad for me. I do not expect to win anything and am rarely surprised. Since I have nothing to lose, I often engage the judges in pretty pointed conversations about the criteria for judging. I often point out that having children vote for the "coolest car" is about as thoughtful as some of the judges are.

If I end up owning a Panoz, I will be torn as to which of my cars to take to a show. I fully suspect some will mistake a Panoz Esperante for a Miata. Or a special version of a Corvette. Regardless, I go to shows to meet some great people and encourage Panoz owners to do the same.

Hi. I just registered as a new member. My name is Don Fryer. I have an '04 Esperante GT. Excellent condition, very low miles, full provenance. I have a nice car show presentation display including a Summary Chart and a detailed 3-ring binder. I detail the car before the show and keep it touched up during the show. I stay with the car. 1 of only 14 GTs ever built; 1 of only 2 (convertibles) in the Pewter Metallic. Lots of interest, questions, and picture taking from spectators at shows. But....I'm not winning, and against lesser competition. Most recently, lost to a Lotus Exige. Not detailed, no presentation, didn't even raise the hood or stay with the car. I am told that the problem is the typical car show categories, i.e. that Panoz does not fit into. I was required to select the entry category; the judges typically are not present at the registration tent. I selected Exotic/Foreign simply because it was the closest match, knowing obviously that the Esperante GT was exotic but not foreign. The other categories were like "Import/Domestic Sport Compact", "Late Model Muscle Car (post-'72)", etc. What are other Panoz owners doing to win car shows and what do I need to do to start winning? Thank you, and I look forward to actively participating in panozlife.

[PanozGTLM]

Howdy! I'm late in the purchasing process for a 2004 Esperante. If all goes well, I'll own one in a week. I'm glad I found this forum, I need to do my homework before I write a check for a car I've never seen in person before. I'll scour the forum for what I'm looking for before I pelt people with questions.

Just curious - any Panoz owners in Colorado?

Welcome and feel free to ask any Panoz questions.

[99PanozAIV]

I've found another thing that affects the outcome and that is whether it's a club sponsored show. The club members tend to vote for each other's cars. I don't really have a problem with that if they're sponsoring the show.

You're right though about categories. I was at one show that had a roadster category. There was only one other car there besides me in that category and it was a beautiful supercharged Viper. I figured no way but surprise, surprise, I beat him (sitting still thankfully, LOL).

[Ackmann]

I find I just dont go to the shows much. Take too long. Cars & Coffee and TSD road rallies have been my thing. C&C is fun, loose and quick. 1 1/2 to 2 hours and no contest. Have met many other car guys and we get together a few times each summer for some good drives throught the country.

TSD Road-rallies are a blast and I highly recommend trying it.

[Rarity]

This is what I have found at car shows. Panoz does not clearly fit in any category, however it will get the most attention and you will be tired by the end of the day. As far as judging goes most Judges will not give you high marks being that they will be intimidated by a Car they know nothing about. When I did car shows i felt like it was a modern day Tucker and that car company is more well known at a car show. Will I show again, yes, do i need a Plastic and Marble Trophy presented by a Hooters Girl, well I guess not. If you have a pristine Panoz, please show it you will enjoy the attention it deserves.

[Fluxing]

I bought the 2004 Chili Pepper Red GTLM this past Saturday, named "Leslie". I flew to Chicago and drove it back to Colorado. While driving through Nebraska early Sunday morning I should've pegged the speedometer but I didn't, just made it to 100. Very nice car. Now I have some modifications to do that every car owner does (radio swap, accessories, etc.).

This car gets more looks than my Delorean!

[PanozGTLM]

I bought the 2004 Chili Pepper Red GTLM this past Saturday, named "Leslie". I flew to Chicago and drove it back to Colorado. While driving through Nebraska early Sunday morning I should've pegged the speedometer but I didn't, just made it to 100. Very nice car. Now I have some modifications to do that every car owner does (radio swap, accessories, etc.).

This car gets more looks than my Delorean!

Congrats on your purchase! Please keep up posted on the mods your doing to the car. I for one would like to know what the altitude of Colorado does to the performance of the supercharged engine? I have had my Esperante over 130+ and she had alot more in her.

[Fluxing]

It's already scratched. Not badly, not a door ding, but I notice it. It may have happened at work today - it had a lot of admirers around it, and a belt buckle could've scraped it. Perhaps it can buff out (does that happen?).

I checked my mileage on the drive back from Illinois to Colorado...I consistently got 18mpg at about 70mph (average) with the A/C on. With a 17/25 estimate, I would've expected something in the 22mpg range.

[PanozGTLM]

It's already scratched. Not badly, not a door ding, but I notice it. It may have happened at work today - it had a lot of admirers around it, and a belt buckle could've scraped it. Perhaps it can buff out (does that happen?).

I checked my mileage on the drive back from Illinois to Colorado...I consistently got 18mpg at about 70mph (average) with the A/C on. With a 17/25 estimate, I would've expected something in the 22mpg range.

Best mileage I have ever gotten with the GTLM was on the drive to the factory about 24 MPG. On the way home from the factory with the Johan Mods I got 23. I find that when you drive responsibly you miss out on the AWESOME ENGINE NOTE. Please post pictures of the car.

[Boxer]

Same power plant as the Panoz - taking delivery of a Mosler MT900S today.

[Fluxing]

Here's my GTLM at the Garden of the Gods visitor's center in Colorado. I'll take the photo again when the weather's better and there's snow on the mountains behind.

So is there something wrong with my car? I wasn't racing on my trip home and could never get above 19mpg at any time...

[Boxer]

Same power plant as the Panoz - taking delivery of a Mosler MT900S today.

A few from the drop off.

[99panoz]

Ok, big test driving party at Boxer's house this weekend. I go first.
Thats beautiful man and I hope you enjoy it.

[PanozGTLM]

Here's my GTLM at the Garden of the Gods visitor's center in Colorado. I'll take the photo again when the weather's better and there's snow on the mountains behind.

So is there something wrong with my car? I wasn't racing on my trip home and could never get above 19mpg at any time...

That depends on your car, are there any modifications done to it? Is it the original running gear or was it changed? When I sell my car (if ever) I have all the documentation of the mods that were done to it for the next owner. Also I wonder if the altutude has anything to do with the poor fuel economy?

[Rarity]

Boxer, The Car looks Great, Enjoy

[Fluxing]

Nice car! Yes - test drives!

[Boxer]

Nice car! Yes - test drives!

Might be a tad difficult, I am near London.

[99panoz]

No problem here,

As Spyker says, "For the tenacious, no road is impassable".

[CMac]

Good afternoon everyone. You don't know how happy I am that I stumbled across this site, that parts manual is gold! My name is Craig McIntyre and I am out of the South Florida area. I own a 2001 Esperante which I bought a few years ago and I drive the heck out of it every chance I get. Definitely one of the best cars I have ever owned.

Looking forward to exploring more of this site in the future
Craig

[Boxer]

Good afternoon everyone. You don't know how happy I am that I stumbled across this site, that parts manual is gold! My name is Craig McIntyre and I am out of the South Florida area. I own a 2001 Esperante which I bought a few years ago and I drive the heck out of it every chance I get. Definitely one of the best cars I have ever owned.

Looking forward to exploring more of this site in the future
Craig

Welcome. How many miles do you put on the car a year?

[CMac]

Well there is about 30K on the clock right now. I guess 3K a year doesn't sound like much but since the beach is only a few miles away it takes quite a few trips to rack up that many miles per year.

[Boxer]

Well there is about 30K on the clock right now. I guess 3K a year doesn't sound like much but since the beach is only a few miles away it takes quite a few trips to rack up that many miles per year.

Do you take it on many long trips? I seem to put about 3000 km a year on the F40 but almost all are done in lumps on 600-700 km trips.

[LeManns67]

Good afternoon everyone. You don't know how happy I am that I stumbled across this site, that parts manual is gold! My name is Craig McIntyre and I am out of the South Florida area. I own a 2001 Esperante which I bought a few years ago and I drive the heck out of it every chance I get. Definitely one of the best cars I have ever owned.

Looking forward to exploring more of this site in the future
Craig

Welcome, welcome. Another Panoz owner that actually post onto the site. Always great to see another one as we are a rare group.

[mrfire]

Talk about rare. I have three Panoz cars and didn't know this site existed. I'm home!

[PanozGTLM]

Welcome to the group! Where in South Fla? I am a transplanted Hallandale resident (in NJ now) Please tell us more about your Esperante, any mods? Any problems?

Thanks

[PanozGTLM]

Talk about rare. I have three Panoz cars and didn't know this site existed. I'm home!

Welcome!
I figured it was only a matter of time until you found this site! How are the cars doing? What is the third Panoz? I remember the Red GTLM and the Yellow(??) AIV Roadster.

[Rarity]

Talk about rare. I have three Panoz cars and didn't know this site existed. I'm home!

Mr. Fire thanks for joining, found Mr. Fire on the SpykerOwner forum...

[TIMEFLY]

I did put a 65 mm bbk throttle body on this year . It required matching the bbk unit to the air plenium . The car has more mid range power . Stock throttle spring is to heavy and must be replaced or the cruise control will hunt . Also to high a pedal pressure . I used a spring from autozone. Total time for job abut 2 hours .

This has been a great fall for convertibles and i have been out several times each week .

Walt

[PanozGTLM]

Hi Walt,

Any idea on what this did to the fuel economy?

Thanks,
Howard

[Rarity]

I did put a 65 mm bbk throttle body on this year . It required matching the bbk unit to the air plenium . The car has more mid range power . Stock throttle spring is to heavy and must be replaced or the cruise control will hunt . Also to high a pedal pressure . I used a spring from autozone. Total time for job abut 2 hours .

This has been a great fall for convertibles and i have been out several times each week .

Walt
FYI, the BBK stock spring is stiff in the beginning, and I know at first it is difficult to accelerate smoothly. But after about a week it will be just like the stock one. Or you will just get used to it. Not sure about installing a Aftermarket spring, you will have one hell of a ride on your hands if it fails?

[Red66GT]

Hi guys. New to this forum, but not new to forums. I spend most of my time on the mustang forums since I have a couple of those. No Panoz here, but love the cars, and since they are mostly mustang drivetrain, I can relate!

[Second Wind]

Hi. I found this site while conducting a search on the Esperante. I've enjoyed reading through the posts and would like to thank those of you who have contributed to the site by sharing information on Panoz vehicles.

I have a 2006 GTLM Coupe, pewter exterior, honey gold interior with a 6 speed. The VIN is 6B213001.

[PanozGTLM]

Welcome!
This site is awesome and hopefully you will find it as enjoyable as I have. Do you happen to know if your car is the "Mario Andretti" Car? Mario Andretti drove a 06 GTLM Coupe in the Bullrun Rally from NYC to LA.

[Second Wind]

"This site is awesome and hopefully you will find it as enjoyable as I have. Do you happen to know if your car is the "Mario Andretti" Car? Mario Andretti drove a 06 GTLM Coupe in the Bullrun Rally from NYC to LA."

PanozGTLM,

It is the car Mario drove in the 2006 Bullrun. That wasn't the reason I bought the car, but it added an interesting note to the car's history.

[PanozGTLM]

For your information your car is the FIRST of the newly designed Coupe. The 2006 has a slightly different hardtop design
195

196

197

198

199

I had the honor to be the first non Panoz employee to drive that car at the factory. I will include some pictures to document it as well as some Bullrun pictures.

[PanozGTLM]

I might have a few more from the Bullrun, Let me know if you want them.

200

201

202

203

[Second Wind]

For your information your car is the FIRST of the newly designed Coupe. The 2006 has a slightly different hardtop design

I had the honor to be the first non Panoz employee to drive that car at the factory. I will include some pictures to document it as well as some Bullrun pictures.

Thanks PanozGTLM. As I understand it, 2006 Coupes have an integrated roll bar and the top is an integral part of the body as opposed to a separate hardtop fastened to a convertible body. Is this correct and are there other differences? Did the 2004 and 2005 Coupes both use the separate hardtops?

Thanks for the information.

[Second Wind]

[QUOTE=PanozGTLM;1060]I might have a few more from the Bullrun, Let me know if you want them.

Thanks. I would sincerely appreciate receiving any photos you may have to add to my small collection to document the car. I'll send you a PM with additional information if you'd like to send them to my e-mail address.

[PanozGTLM]

Thanks PanozGTLM. As I understand it, 2006 Coupes have an integrated roll bar and the top is an integral part of the body as opposed to a separate hardtop fastened to a convertible body. Is this correct and are there other differences? Did the 2004 and 2005 Coupes both use the separate hardtops?

Thanks for the information.

To the best of my knowledge that was what I was told. I will tell you that @ over 100 MPH the car was very stable and the coupe adds rigidity over the convertable. Yes I did drive your car @ over 100 MPH but lets keep that our little secret (lol)

Have a GREAT day!

[Hilly]

Thanks PanozGTLM. As I understand it, 2006 Coupes have an integrated roll bar and the top is an integral part of the body as opposed to a separate hardtop fastened to a convertible body. Is this correct and are there other differences? Did the 2004 and 2005 Coupes both use the separate hardtops?

To the best of my knowledge that was what I was told.

So the 2006 hardtop is NOT removable, correct? I assume not with the integrated rollbar.

Also, has anyone heard of adding a rollbar to the convertible?

[LeManns67]

I dont know what is cooler:

The fact that you have the car that Mario drove in the Bull Run

or

The fact that PANOZGTLM not only knew the history of, and had pictures of it to share with you; and for free via internet, you guys are able to share this with each other.

Lets hear one for the car forums.

[PanozGTLM]

I dont know what is cooler:

The fact that you have the car that Mario drove in the Bull Run

or

The fact that PANOZGTLM not only knew the history of, and had pictures of it to share with you; and for free via internet, you guys are able to share this with each other.

Lets hear one for the car forums.

Couldn't agree with you more I am PROUD to be a member of the "Panoz Life Family!"

[PanozGTLM]

So the 2006 hardtop is NOT removable, correct? I assume not with the integrated rollbar.

Also, has anyone heard of adding a rollbar to the convertible?

The guy who owns my first Esperante to was going to race the car this is where he went:
http://tubularfab.com/gal2/main.php?g2_itemId=1959

204

205

Not the prettiest thing but.

Hope this helps. . .

[Hilly]

The guy who owns my first Esperante to was going to race the car this is where he went:
http://tubularfab.com/gal2/main.php?g2_itemId=1959

204

205

Not the prettiest thing but.

Hope this helps. . .

Oh, that's ugly! But form follows function, I guess.

[Second Wind]

The guy who owns my first Esperante to was going to race the car this is where he went:
http://tubularfab.com/gal2/main.php?g2_itemId=1959


Not the prettiest thing but.

Hope this helps. . .


Is this the 2001 or 2002 in Ohio that was for sale about a year or so ago?

[Boxer]

Oh, that's ugly! But form follows function, I guess.

Seperate hoops behind each seat would have been far more attractive. Example:

[Hilly]

Seperate hoops behind each seat would have been far more attractive. Example:

Agreed on that!...
http://www.autobase.com/photos/00320/1076/10763037_021.jpg

[PanozGTLM]

Is this the 2001 or 2002 in Ohio that was for sale about a year or so ago?

Yes!
It's a 2002 vin # 1P9PB48392B213055 I had the factory put the GTLM mirrors on her, it makes such a huge difference in the rear visibility. She also had all the factory up dates and a few modifications "sweet car". Before and after.

207

208

[Ackmann]

http://www.wild-bills.com/esperante/esperanteindex.htm

[C4Guy]

Hello, I just joined. I just missed purchasing the blue Car & Driver press car Esperante. I live the Pacific Northwest and am an Esperante fan. I am retired and tinker around with my old car collection out in the woods. Hopefully will find one to purchase sometime in the future. Thanks, Wil

[Ackmann]

Hello, I just joined. I just missed purchasing the blue Car & Driver press car Esperante. I live the Pacific Northwest and am an Esperante fan. I am retired and tinker around with my old car collection out in the woods. Hopefully will find one to purchase sometime in the future. Thanks, Wil

Welcome C4Guy. We'll keep an eye out for you on a nice Esperante.

[BRUT4CE]

I believe I have the C&D Esperante cover car down here in southern CA - 2001 chassis #16 I bought 7 years ago. Is there another one?

[Ackmann]

I believe I have the C&D Esperante cover car down here in southern CA - 2001 chassis #16 I bought 7 years ago. Is there another one?

According to written correspondance as well as multiple verbal communications with both Panoz Mfg and JRD tuning, chassis #13 was the Blue and Tan vehicle used for the article. Not that it makes that much difference today, but long term it might. Do your have any written documentation that #16 was used. I do believe the article was done in two parts, a multiple day weekend trip and a tech verification test for performance.So who knows really as this was 10 years ago.

[BRUT4CE]

I have a Danny Panoz-signed original copy of the C&D mag with his handwritten statement on the cover thanking the original owner of Blue and Tan chassis 16 and verifying the Vin# for helping with the publicity effort. There was no mention of JRD anywhere in the C&D article, and if they had tweaked the engine at all it certainly would have upped the horses from the stock 320 listed in the specs. But cover girl or not, I still love this car.

[Ackmann]

That is interesting. Johann at JRD didn't do any tuning on Chassis #13 but was around then. Chassis #13 does have written confirmation from the Dir of Marketing that #13 was used and also was verbally confirmed by Dir of Engineering who were involved in the story participation. As I know the story the car was originally built for the CFO and came off the line when C&D asked Panoz to be involved in the article. They provided #13 since it was connected to one of the employees and the other cars on the line were being built for customers and/or dealers. After the car returned from the trip and testing, the CFO was VERY UNHAPPY that his car was loaned out and insisted that a new car be built for him. The car was then sold to a dealer in CA and ended up in San Fran. Either way, your right that they are great cars and all owners should enjoy the cars.

[Sully]

Hi ... introducing my Panoz ... Ms. Daisy

[PanozGTLM]

Beautiful car Sully! Please tell us about her all we can tell from the picture is that she is a GT who has been shown some "Johan love".

[Boxer]

Hi ... introducing my Panoz ... Ms. Daisy

Congratulations.

[LeManns67]

Hi ... introducing my Panoz ... Ms. Daisy

Welcome. I like the hood on your Esaperante. I've seen them with air intakes but not the windows. Can you poist a close picturee of the hood. thanks

[PanozGTLM]

Hi ... introducing my Panoz ... Ms. Daisy

Hi Sully,
I did a little research on your car and here is a picture that Johan JRD has on his website. I am pretty sure its your car. Welcome to the family!

http://www.jrdtuning.com/carsdetails.aspx?ID=188

[Munoz]

Hello my name is David and I own '99 Roadster number 013. I have owned it since 2009. It is Silver with blue interior and according to the documentation that came with it, it was sold at Barrett-Jackson in 2003 and it is one of two cars that were made in this combination. I also have several late model Mustangs. I look forward to meeting everyone and plan on being a contributor. I am working on "improving" the Roadster. David

[Kathy]

Just took delivery of 2006 Panoz Esperante GT her name is Kathy and that is why our login is Kathy. I am Tony and. My wife is Kathy so it was meant to be. She is great and we love taking the top down. It is great to get her back to Georgia where she belongs.

Trying to find options on getting parts when necessary, and good mechanic. We live 11 miles from factory. Looking forward to a long life together as part of the family.

Tony

[99panoz]

Just took delivery of 2006 Panoz Esperante GT her name is Kathy and that is why our login is Kathy. I am Tony and. My wife is Kathy so it was meant to be. She is great and we love taking the top down. It is great to get her back to Georgia where she belongs.

Trying to find options on getting parts when necessary, and good mechanic. We live 11 miles from factory. Looking forward to a long life together as part of the family.

Tony

Why not go to the factory for parts and service? That's what I do when my Roadster needs something.

[PanozGTLM]

Just took delivery of 2006 Panoz Esperante GT her name is Kathy and that is why our login is Kathy. I am Tony and. My wife is Kathy so it was meant to be. She is great and we love taking the top down. It is great to get her back to Georgia where she belongs.

Trying to find options on getting parts when necessary, and good mechanic. We live 11 miles from factory. Looking forward to a long life together as part of the family.

Tony

Welcome!
Please post pictures so that we may all see your lovely Kathy!
Yes I meant the car!

[Second Wind]

Just took delivery of 2006 Panoz Esperante GT her name is Kathy and that is why our login is Kathy. I am Tony and. My wife is Kathy so it was meant to be. She is great and we love taking the top down. It is great to get her back to Georgia where she belongs.

Trying to find options on getting parts when necessary, and good mechanic. We live 11 miles from factory. Looking forward to a long life together as part of the family.

Tony

Welcome Kathy,

Is your '06 GT black with a black interior/yellow stitching, an AT and VIN 008? If so, I have some history on the car if you'd like it.

[Boxer]

Welcome and congrats on the acquisition.

[Kathy]

Welcome Kathy,

Is your '06 GT black with a black interior/yellow stitching, an AT and VIN 008? If so, I have some history on the car if you'd like it.
Yes that is the 06 Esperante GT, black + black with yellow stitching. Always looking for info on the vehicle. You can also email me directly at mackt2@emc.com

[Kathy]

I added 1 Picture of the 2006 Esperante GT in Album. Will upload more this weekend.

[2006GTLM]

Welcome to the group and congratulations on the new car. I almost bought your car a few years back when it was still at its original dealer, Lamborghini/Panoz of Orange County. As it turned out, my wife talked me into buying our "don't notice me" yellow '06 instead. With only 20 made in the final year, and only about 233 in total, you will have tons of fun telling all the people about the car where ever you go. More fun than talking about it though will be driving it.

[Second Wind]

Yes that is the 06 Esperante GT, black + black with yellow stitching. Always looking for info on the vehicle. You can also email me directly at mackt2@emc.com

As 2006 GTLM noted, your '06 GT was initially at Lamborghini/Panoz of Orange County in CA. It was displayed, if I recall the year correctly, at the 2007 Orange County Auto Show. The Lamborghini dealership closed rather suddenly and the car eventually showed up at Jake's Motocars in San Diego where it was sold to a buyer in Texas.

Enjoy the ride!

[Fastera]

Hey I finally found a Panoz Site.
I have a 2004 Esperante, 305hp 4.6L Automatic, Green with Black leather "Devon Rose".
Just crunched the front bumber on a parking curb tonight at a restaurant.
Got back to the house, removed the name plate cover and air filter, straightened out the cooling panels on the sides, pulled out the wire grill, then reassembled the front.
The lower bumper has two cracks about 6" long.
Anyone got a lower front bumper or a long nose bumper for sale?

Fastera

[PanozGTLM]

Welcome!
I am sure that the factory will have what you need. If its not to painfull post some pictures.

Thanks

[Ackmann]

Welcome!
I am sure that the factory will have what you need. If its not to painfull post some pictures.

Thanks

YES, OUCH!, I would think that your only and best option would be Panoz Mfg direct.

[paradon]

Glad I found the forum as well.

I have a 2004 Esperante (Mallory) which I purchased in 2007 with 240 km. The car was modified by the factory for the Canadian market.

VIN is 213018.

[RLToy]

Very happy to have found this forum!

We love our car for it's uniqueness and for the American muscle behind it!

[2006GTLM]

Welcome, and pass the word on the forum.