New to Replica

I am a newbie at researching these automobiles, but I am dying to get into one. I have been reading alot but am trying to decide where to start. I live in NC and there are no dealers in my area. I have never seen a replica (at least I dont think so) nor have driven one. The cars do look small. I am 6'1". I guess I would like any information on who to contact, if there are any places to see one in NC, will I fit...etc?? Also, I am looking to spend a max of around $32,000. Is it possible??

Buy a used Vintage for a third that amount to see if you really belong in one..

Jayson, it's not only possible, it's easy.
Where in South Carolina do you live? We have a couple members there, both in the Charleston area.
Manufacturers can, and do, cater to their buyers in terms of seat width, legroom and other aspects of customization. Many of those makers will be represented at Carlisle, Pa., in about three weeks.
How's your schedule look for the 21st through 23rd of May?

Vince's advice is right on the money. However with 32K to spend it would be hard to beat Miko's car offered at 32K. I've seen it up close and personal and it is among the nicest IM's I have ever seen.

Absolutely come to Carlisle! It will be fun and it will give you the chance to compare cars and see what suits you. Cal Monsma (in OK) is around 6' 4", I think, and he fits in one. A coworker of mine at 6' 8" does not (at least to drive it), so there is a limit. I'm 5' 11" and do just fine.

Where in NC are you? I'm down in Charleston, so it'd be a drive, but I'd be happy to show you the car if you want to come this far. Aaron White is in Lake Lure in western NC. Nt sure if either location would work for you to visit.

Aaron White lives in Lake Lure, NC. He'll probably take you for a spin in his. Also great if you're constipated....ask me how I know :)

Jayson,

Madness, yep welcome to the madness.......;-)

Take folks up offers to drive some cars out there close to you. Do plenty of research. Everyone here has an opinion and remember "opinions are like assholes, and everyone has one".

Mine opinion and advise is drive as many as you can and buy the best car of whatever brand/maker your money can buy.

Most of all have fun!

Jayson, go to the classifieds folder and check out Leaders ride for sale...they don't come any cooler than that, and you will be the envy of all of us....

Gee I know a wonderful car for sale.... Contact Dale Bates

Jayson,

Dale's car is more than John's by about $15K +. Johns car is VERY cool......and drives great!

There really are some spectacular cars available right now that have been thoroughly sorted. Kinda depends on you budget, but I think John Leader's car is a sweet deal for the money. Also Miko Czerny-Hollownia's IM for $32k (yeah, I know it's over your budget) is a screaming deal.

Carlisle is only three weeks away, so I really, REALLY recommend that you join us.

Lane,
I believe that Mikos(Nicholas')Intermeccanica has a Canadian title and registration,therefore can not be titled in the USA. Would have to check with Henry on how, or if it can registered in the states!

I was wondering about that.

Everyone...Thank you for all your recommendations. I am currently renting in Greensboro NC. Only been here three months. Still live in Atlanta. So anyone within 5 hours drive, I would be willing to do. Also, Im from Pottsville PA which isnt too far from Carlisle. That may be my best best.

I would like to get rid of my 06 Cayenne S before I buy a speedster. Dont have to, but would like to, so if anyone knows dealers that would be willing to do a trade, that will work as well.

Also, how does everyone feel about the wide body?? I have seen both types in doing research.

Is Dale's car for sale??

Yup, check out his posting in "Classifieds". Won't be inexpensive, but quite a car.

I'm about 4 hours or so from you, so if you want to come to the coast some weekend soon, please give me a buzz. Alternatively, you can come to Carlisle and drive mine and others while you're there. Aaron White is about 2 hours away, so you could do a day trip there.

Thanks Lane...I will probably take you up on your offer...

Are flared panels a no no??

Not sure what you mean. If you mean flared fenders, no they're not a "no-no". quite a few of the guys have flared cars. It's all a matter of personal taste. Your vendor selection is a little limited, though, as only JPS and Vintage offer that style now. I imagine that Thunder Ranch would do it as custom, but it'd be pricey.

Well I know that they never made a speedster with the flared fenders, so I wasnt sure if that was looked down upon. Its good to know its not. I like the look. In going that route, would you recommend Vintage, JPS or TR???

Ah, now you're stirring a hornet's nest ;-)

I'll beg off that question as I own a Beck, and have never done business with the others beyond a few parts here and there. I'm sure that many on this site will speak up. Otherwise, I can answer in person with some blatant opinions at Carlisle.

haha...or, you can send me those "blatant points" to my email if you would like. its jlinard @ yahoo...

I picked up my Vintage for 11k with like 4k miles on it.

Jayson.. while 3/4 of my previous speedster builds were the flared versions, the popular vote seems to lean toward the classic style body.... For me and many others, the flared styling allows for a broader canvas as to what you may do on a build. ~Alan

Jayson.
This group isn't into to "frowning" on someone's individual tastes, we leave that to the "Porsche purest." I for one am a widebody guy and, at least for the moment, have both a traditional regular body replica Speedster and a super widebody replica Speedster (both Vintage Speedster) and they are both VERY nice.
There are also members who own both real and replica 356 Porsches as well as other real Porsches. Hell, some of us even wear fake Rolex's. Who cares! It's all about having something YOU can afford and enjoy and not what anyone else thinks.
Troy

Well said !

Troy, once again I agree with Dr. Clock. Well said sir.