Help Needed on MK4 Roadster Project--ease of entry-exit and and NYS DMV Requirements

[tbarr]

Gentlemen (and ladies):

I am New here.


I Want to build a Mk 4 roadster this winter. However, I am handicapped which makes walking difficult and painful, and getting in and out of small cars challenging. In doing my research, I have come up with a few basic questions that I need to get over before I proceed;

1. Ease of Entry / Exit: Is there anyone on Long Island with a project or completed Mark 4 Roadster (or 3 for that matter) that would let me look at their car, and see if I can get in and out of it??

2. Registration and Emissions Requirements / Hassles: I want to buy a car project, not a lot of trouble with the DMV. So I would very much like to talk to people who have registered / Titled / Inspected their Roadsters (any model) in NY Statento see what the problems are.

I am definitely NOT interested in getting into something that requires compliance with the 2011 safety regulations AND the emissions requirements. This is the most important thing for me to get over before I proceed. So I need to know what emissions requirements might be applicable to my Project.

Thank you in advance for your response and time.

Tom B

[riptide motorsport]

Welcome, others will chime in for specifics as to NY reg. issues, as far as ingress and egress, you basically step into the car and sit down, to get out you can stand up in the car and step out..........it has no roof..........HTH ...Steven

[David Hodgkins]

Tom,

As Steven mentioned, you don't sit down and then swing your legs in like a normal car. Especially if you are a big guy and/or using the kirkey seats. The tough part for you won't be getting in, it'll be getting out. Basically you have to be able to press yourself up with your arms and then step on the carpet in front of the seat or the seat itself to stand up and then exit the car. How tall are you? If you are a small guy and use the standard seats this may not apply. But most guys i know have to use some sort of alternate method to get their legs out. Size makes a big difference.

If it urns out that the roadster doesn't work for you, you could always look into the '33. It has suicide doors (hinge in the rear) and is easy to get in and out of. Something to consider if your flexability is severely limited...


HTH,

:)

[3kcarbon]

These cars are small and if have never sat in one by all means find a local owner and do a test fit. I'm 5"10 and a little overweight at 240 and it is possible for me to get in and out in a normal manner but it is a bit more effort than a regular car. I have seen some really big guys do the drop in method and it is easier if you have the flexibility. Keep in mind its not a good idea to pull on the windshield on put a lot of weight on the doors to support yourself if you need to.
Down south here in NC they get titled as a 1965 replica and don't get tested at all. You may want to ask about the SEMA bill that most states have to allow this.

[Groundshaker]

Pay special attention to the HOT exhaust system when getting in and out.

[NHolds]

I have a bad back, and getting out is a PAIN. Getting in is easy. To get out, you gotta have kinda strong legs. I put one leg out, then lift up and rest my butt on the door jamb. Then, grab the roll bar and finish climbing out.

[first time builder]

Hi Tom, There are several MK III's on the Island (Suffolk County) I dont know of any finished MK IV's, there are several under construction. You should check local car show listings on line and In Newsday. There are also cruise nights all over the place I dont know the locations out as far as your are. I am from Holbrook. I'm not saying that you will always find an FFR but your odds are good. Most FFR owners would be very willing to let you try sitting in their car and would also probably offer you a ride. I don't have one for you to sit in or I would offer. I built a MK III for "wastehauler" but he also does not live as far out as you are.
Kenny