What's the Coolest thing that has happened to you while driving your GTM?

[The Stig]

I ran acrosss a thread in the ffcars forum, which asks: "What is the coolest thing that has happened to you since owning your Cobra?"

I read a few of the comments and quickly realized that I had to keep reading... Some of the responses are hilarious, and others are just plain cool!

After taking the cue from the original post in the previous Roadster Forum, I thought it would be cool to have a similar post in the GTM forum...

So, me being the curious type that I am, I wondered the same about the GTM crowd. I know that there aren't nearly as many GTM's running around as there are Cobra's, Coupes, and/or Spyders, but I would truly love to hear the stories that you guys can share with the rest of us!

What's the Coolest thing that has happened to you while driving, (or because of), your GTM?


The following, were replies that came back to this question. I'd really like to keep this thread going here in the New GTM forum.

**********************************************

6/27/2008
Richard Oben
Most people have no idea what it is, I have no badges on the car and will likely not put any on. Ferrari is the most common guess. People are mostly blown away at how low the car is. I currently have my front ride height up a little until I get used to how low the front is so it will be lower soon. Cell phone pix are constant, driving or when parked, even more so than with the cobra or the Daytona coupe. Many people are suprised it is a kit vehicle, that was cool, we tried to take the kit out of it. I had punk kid come up and say in a dissenting voice 'gee it is only a kit car'. I piped up and asked what he drove and if he could even change the oil in it? He shut up quick, pretty funny. Nothing really cool has happened but I thought I would give the thread a bump. Cheers Richard.
__________________
Richard Oben FFR builder www.northracecars.com (http://www.northracecars.com/)

6/29/2008
65 Cobra Dude
One of my favorites is pulling onto MacDill AFB in Tampa, FL in the GTM for the first time. Security Forces snaps a salute and asks "What the heck kind of car is that?" I return the salute and say its a GTM and he replies "I knew I should have been an Officer." I just chuckled and went to work.

I have also had a few folks take pics while on the road with their cell phone. Funny part is they do it through their side mirror so I don't see them

Henry

7/4/2008
AllanFFR
Well it all started the day I trailered it to get registered...
On the way home I see an unmarked suburban flying up to me. The police lights come on, pull me over and this monster of a guy jumps out. All I can see is the cuffs in his hand and I wonder what I ran over with the trailer. Ends up of course he just wants to take a look and see if he can fit inside.

From there it's been endless pictures on the highway or anywhere I leave it. On the way home from the open house it took me a half hour to get out of the gas station becuase people kept stopping to talk about it. Then when I finally got on the highway a woman in a Mercedes circled me for 15 minutes taking pictures from all angles. I don't find that people try and hide their jaw drop open mouth wow when they see the GTM.

Then there was the time I "accidentally" was going 150...

8/05/2008
cob427sc
Having driven my GTM almost 3000 miles so far, I've had my share of stares, questions, pulled over by police 4 times just to look, etc., but last weekend was the craziest. I was driving down a divided highway (2 lanes each way) and all of a sudden a small Honda SUV comes blasting out of no where to catch me (I'm doing about 80 mph), he must have been doing at least 95-100. Once he catches up to me, he virtually locks up the binders and 4 college age guys all start taking camera photos (including the driver) while nearly running me off the road. I slow down, he slows down and nearly bumps me again. I speed up, he follows up to 100, thinking I lost him I back off. Sure enough here he comes again, this time with a video camera hanging out the drivers side window (yes, the driver is filming while driving at 100mph!). He nearly bumps me again, then passes as I slow down. Then the rear door pops open, and more filming from the back begins while the driver is all over the road. Protecting my life (and the GTM!) I pray for a cop, but duck out at the next ramp. These guys were nuts!


8/06/2008
taz25
While dining outside of a local café, there are couple of guys sitting one table over ripping on the “owner” of a nearly parked GTM, naturally not knowing it was me. Its not hard to make that assumption as I don’t looked like much. Apparently I had to buy one of those to get any action . Also I’m a sucker as all Italian exotics break all the time. Then the conversation went on… exchanging their automotive expertise. Not to ruin my lunch or getting my butt kicked, I waited until it was time to leave. On the way out I asked “are you getting any action with your Honda” ( keys on the table )


11/25/2008
Samurai41
Tower--request a fly by.....
I didn't think of this thread at the time, but last month- I got a fly by from an old US coast guard plane. Maybe it was because the car was in pink primer (I was hoping hollywood would come out with a Barbie remake, I would have been a shoe in for the Barbie Mobile) Had the body out in the sun bathing. they flew over a flew times and gave me enough time to grab my camera.

http://i210.photobucket.com/albums/bb94/jmichaelbaskin/Other%20GTMs/Samurai4101.jpg

http://i210.photobucket.com/albums/bb94/jmichaelbaskin/Other%20GTMs/Samurai4102.jpg

[The Stig]

12/11/2008
Richard Migliori

So far, it's finishing 2nd in the 25 hour race. We had everything it took to finish 1st. But, when the Prototype group, corveete group nd other top teams complained about pitting just before a red flag and being able to do a complete rehab on the car while they could only watch was a thrill! We were noticed not as just another entry, but a real contender! Seeing the car kick a$$ was a real treat for me and all the GTM builders that helped in this effort. My hat off to all of you out there.

RM

[The Stig]

12/19/2008
LS MAN

Last fall our local high school (Linden, Ca.) had a career fair & asked if I could be a speaker for automotive tech. Having been in the trade for 35 yrs. (oh, that makes me old), I jumped at the chance to maybe inspire at least 1 kid. I needed a prop to grab their attention. I know, I'll borrow Yvonne's GTM! From the time we drove into the quad area in the center of school, and parked, a huge mob of not only students, but the faculty and every other presenter surrounded the car! It was totally the center of attention that day. The US Army couldn't compete with it. The poor other tradesman speaking in my group, plumbing contractor, sheet metal guy, local contractor, tried there best to promote their trades, but when it came to question time, all the kids wanted to know about was the GTM, How fast is it? What kind of car is it?, where did you get it?, It was great to explain that it was a kit car & that they could one day build there own!. One kid in the back even asked, How hard is it to steal it!! I of course implored the young man to avoid that career path & complete his education so he could someday have his own. The other speakers told me, We can't compete with that damn car! of course they all were checking it out too. I kept asking the kids, Why do you like it so much, it's not a tuner Honda? They all kept saying tuner cars are boring! This car is way cooler! There was one young Hispanic girl, a freshman, that literally could not keep her hands off the car. I love this car! was what she kept saying. I would turn around to talk, and look back at her, and she literally had her arms wrapped around the rear fender hugging the car! I told her Honey, please don't touch the car! I'm sorry, but ----- I LOVE THIS CAR!! She must have sat in it for 45 min, upsetting all the other kids who wanted a turn. She told me that she was going to take shop class so she could learn how to build her own GTM!. I thanked Richard & Yvonne & told them I hope there are no scratches, Yvonne said well thats why it doesn't have the expensive paint, so we can share it without worry. Thanks again for a great day.
Ted

12/21/2008
Richard Migliori

I must share this story!

While having our annual Christmas party with our friends on Saturday, Keith Drake made the trip and we all kind of recapped once again what a great time we all had at the 25 and what a great handling car we had put together. Keith works for a company that takes him back to North Carolina 4 days a week from his home here near the San Francisco Bay area. As all the drivers of the GTM, I found it amusing that they all have photos of themselves on their phones, passing someone or a cool "on the edge" cornering shot. Keith's story went like this and thought I would share with you:

I had just finished a corporate conferance meeting in North Carolina, and the executives all are ready to go their own respective ways. We all have chouffeurs that take us to the airports or to each location. As I am being taken to the airport to catch my flight home, I received a phone call and we had chatted alitttle about the 25. The driver leans back over the seat and comments about listening to the conversation and procceds to tell me about how he just completed a GTM build and how these guys in California have this race version of the car and how its so over the top with that huge wing. Keith listens to his babbling about the racer and his car. Keith thens pulls out his phone and asks the driver, " is this the car you are talking about?" The driver looks at the picture and goes crazy! Yah, that's the car, how did you get that picture?" Keith"COOL HAND" Drake replied, " Well, I'm one of the drivers and that's me in the car." The trip continued with a million questions about the racer and ended at the airport and we all got to hear the story and all the laughs about this guy and the trip to the airport. Such a small world indeed. I want to thank Keith for sharing this exciting story and reaffirms the hard work and fun we all have had building this car and most of all, friendships and lives we touch throughout the years.

12/23/2008
Stick947

Richard was telling me about Keith's story which was a really cool one and also asked it I had any stories from this past year. I have a many because racing with Richard is truly an adventure, but one sticks out. He eluded to it in his recap of the 25 but let me give my rendition of the trip to the San Joaquin County Fairgrounds.

I had flown out to run the enduro at Infineon and we had gearbox issues and no spare which in hindsight was a blessing in disguise. Thus, we missed the race and I wasn't flying till later the next day so we swapped boxes when we got home from the track. Richard comments as we are walking to the house from the garage finishing up that we should test it out before I have to go to the airport. I had been around Richard enough to know that he likes to mess with people so I just shrugged it off and went to bed.

Next morning after breakfast we are driving around running some errands (picking up so halogen lights for the pit stall), and we swing by the San Joaquin County Fairgrounds and he says this looks pretty good. I'm thinking he's really going to lengths to yank my chain on this one. So, we get back to the house and hook up the trailer and load the car. Now we are really going to do this or he's REALLY going out of his way to yank my chain.

Arriving at the parking lot we scope it out and there are some city workers practicing parking a dump truck with lowboy and some more city workers repaving a sidewalk outside the fence. We unload and we catch some glances from the workers and they go back to what they are doing. We start the car and let it warm up then Richard says just take it around and make sure the tranny is good go through the gears etc. So I start out for the first 3-4 laps just going through all the gears and it feels nice and smooth so I stop at the trailer and he says you can push it a bit we need to see if its good. So the next few I am pushing hard getting to the top of third gear at the far end which is probably close to 90 mph. At this point all the workers around have stopped what they are doing and there are some cars stopped along the fence. Now that I have an audience I am hot dogging a bit and getting it sideways and even loop it once (nice skidpad for a public place). Couple more laps and I see this silver Camry come into the parking lot and I think, uh oh, so I head for the trailer.

The fair director is a formidable 5'9" and she comes around the front of her car and gets right in Richard's face. What do you guys think you are doing? Did you secure permission to use this facility? There are city workers here and this is a safety concern. Richard says well we saw some guys out here the other day (auto-x chalk was still down from the day before). She erupts again, they have permission and insurance and take safety precautions and what you guys are doing is just reckless. Now neither Richard nor I expected this to go cleanly, but he could have won an Oscar for his portrayal of a clueless individual. Oh, we didn't know, we thought if we stayed out away from the workers it would be ok. We didn't know we needed permission. We won't let it happen again. If not for physically biting my tongue I would have been laughing and the situation would have deteriorated quickly because she was as mad as a wet hen.

[The Stig]

7/30/2009
Richard Migliori

Some of you may have read the post about the PDG group doing a video and car presentation at one of our valued supporters, America's Tire, Hammer Lane store. I single them out because Stockton has 4 stores. It all started when Ron Richmond brought over a set of front rims for our new tire deal with Hoosier. Now we needed rear rims for the set so I went over to see Justin at America's Tire. Actually he ran out to greet me. "I was just thinking about you" I said well then I hope you can help me out with finding some 12" rims to match these. "But wait, I have to tell you what happened on Monday". O.K., I'll bite. Justin told me of a phone call he received from the senior VP of AT from corporate and had come upon and read the PDG adventure at the tire store. He was very impressed as the pictures showed true professionalism and community involvement. That was pretty cool!
I think this is testiment of "you just never know who is browsing on the forum!

Richard


8/1/2009
JimO GTM#147

Last night in #147

So I take my wife out to a party in the GTM last night. She bumps her head getting in (bad). Things seem to get worse when on the freeway, a state patrol car comes flying up on me in the right lane. I think to myself, "here we go, I'm about to get hassled for the first time." reluctantly, I look over at the cop and to my amazement, he gives me the thumbs up! Pretty cool. But the best part came at the party. A guy I know shows up in a brand new (and stunningly beautiful) Ferrari 430. He walks into the party and announces to everybody, "I show up in a Ferrari, and I don't have the fastest car here." Ahh, that was beautiful!


8/20/2009
JimO GTM#147

Something's Rubbing

Wasn't sure where to put this thread. Could have been under "most embarrassing thing..." But here it goes.

Jim and I are out on the track for our first session. I'm driving and start noticing a smell as I exit corners, particularly on hard acceleration. It smells more like rubber than brakes. Being that it's our first time out, I want to make sure we don't have something rubbing and I have Jim checking the TPMS to make sure we aren't cutting a tire.

We come in after the session and look for marks on the tires-- find nothing. That's when my good friend Jim laughs at me (and has done so about a hundred times) when he points out that the rubbing issue is tires on pavement. Doh!

[The Stig]

4/23/2010
The Stig

Well, my car isn't near finished but I just had something happen that was pretty cool. At least to me.

Our air conditioners are looking like they're going to give up the ghost before long. So I've started getting estimates for what they're going to cost to replace. So today, the Trane Man shows up with his estimate. I had my 1930 Model-A Ford backed out into the driveway. When he walked up, he was all grins and giggles about the Ford. Then he rounded the corner and saw the GTM in the garage.

Automatically, he began to ask questions. Understand I only have the chassis in the Garage. The Body in on the buck, (under a car cover) behind our house.

What is it? Who makes it? Are you really building that yourself? That is so cool!... and so on. It hit me that this must be what you guys keep talking about, when you say that the questions start and they just keep coming. I understand now that people just can't help themselves.

After a 15 or 20 minutes of trying to answer his questions, we went inside. I happened to have the brochure for the GTM that I picked up at the Autofair a couple of weeks ago, lying on the table. I handed it it to him, and BAMMMM! His jaw dropped, eyes got really big, he took a deep breath, and the questions started again.

It was pretty fun to see someone who obviously sees the car see same way that I do. I had an extra Factory Five DVD, so I gave it to him and told him that this would answer a number of his questions about any of the Factory Five Racing Kits.

It was like watching a kid at Christmas.

Then he gave me his estimate... Oddly enough, it was pretty much the same as the cost for Jeff Collins to do the bodywork and paint for the GTM...

(Hmmm. Cool air or Paint for the GTM? Paint, of course!)

Now I know exactly how I must have appeared when I hit Jeff with question after question, the first time I saw this car.

[The Stig]

5/4/2010
SpyTech
There's a rumor going around my town that 'some crazy dude is building a ferrari in his garage'. It took me a few times of hearing this to realize I was the crazy dude.


5/4/2010
ealingj

Last weekend I was working on my car and had pushed it out of the garage and into the driveway. While I was trying to make my wheel gaps just right my little daughter said to me:

"daddy, why is that guy looking at your car?"

I looked down the driveway and saw a guy sitting parked in his BMW peering over his sunglasses almost leaning out his window hardcore staring at my car. I laughed and said:

"because your daddy's car is cool."

She smiled thinking I was just kidding (as I usually joke around quite a bit with her).

A few minutes later after cutting some of the aluminum to make the hood fit better, my little daughter said:

"daddy, there's another guy looking at your car."

I turn around and sure enough a guy rubber necking big time as he drove past my house. My car is not even close to being done. No paint, no windows. Just doors, hatch, and wheels. Can't imagine the looks after it's actually done!


5/8/2010
kbentzel

I thought I had posted this before….
About a year ago I had just gotten my car on the road and was out on a test/joy ride. I was about twenty miles from home when the car started to overheat. I pulled over and could see that one of the radiator line couplings was leaking. I should be able to correct this and be on my way. Then I thought ‘What kind of an idiot goes on a test drive with no tools?’ Hmmm so I limp into a 7-11 to get water and hopefully a screw driver. I‘m inside looking without success when a guy says ‘Man that’s a beautiful car’. I said thanks but I really need a screwdriver. He says he has one I can borrow so I walk out to the car and there is one guy taking video and another with a cell camera. The whole time I’ trying to squeeze my arm far enough under the car to get to the hose clamp I have people asking what it is, what powers it etc. I get the clamp tight I’m putting water back in when I notice across a six lane highway there is a car show and people are crossing that highway to look at my car at the 7-11. I’m about to fire it up and head home when a black Mercedes pulls up the window comes down and this lovely woman with a French accent says ‘Are you the driver?’ Yes, yes I am!


5/29/2010
ShawnB737

One cool thing - one Police thing

Last night I had to pull into the local grocery store and was with my wife on the way to a friends house. I parked 5 cars deep on one of the rows and left it running with the AC on and my wife stayed in the car. I am running the FFR stock exhaust and have a pretty nice "lopey" cam in it. As I approached the store I could still here my car probably 100 feet behind me. I was not in the store more than 5 min and I guess the word spread through all the baggage boys what was in the parking lot. She asked if they made a PA in the store that a cool car was in the parking lot? I said no, why? She said every bag boy in the store came over to the car and was walking around it. She had sent me a text to "Hurry up!" As I was walking up one of the boys said' "man that's an awesome car!" My wife doesn't like to be the center of attention and the GTM sure does put you there!!


Last night my wife and I were on the way home around 1am. I stopped at the one of the only stop signs in the town I live close to and there was a police officer at the opposite stop sign. My wife says I bet he pulls us over. I made a right turn and then the next left and sure enough the lights came on. I pulled over, turned my car off, turned the inside lights on and rolled down the window. Then the officer said the standard drivers license and insurance. Then he came back and said I pulled you over because you don't have a license plate light. "I don't?" He left again to check my record and then came back and gave me this whole BS story of how criminals turn off or unplug their license plate light and that is why I was pulled over. He was kinda rude about it. Then the other officer went to the passenger side and tried to open the door, which was kinda funny since there are no exterior handles. He leaves then comes back again and taps on the passenger side and my wife opens the door. She had two dishes of left over food in her lap and a six pack with 3 bottles left in it on the floor. The officer asked her twice: "Any open containers in here?" She answered twice - "No there are no OPEN containers in here." Then the other officer that went to my wife's side came around and said, "Hey man what kind of car is this, man it is awesome, how long did it take to build, blah blah blah.." The first officer said that this is a verbal warning and you can go...I told them to be safe and I slowly pulled away...My wife said that if they wanted to check out your car just say so!!

As guys have said before on this site: If you are needing to get in and out of somewhere quick - don't drive your GTM. It will slow you down with people wanting to know about it or talk to you about it!


8/20/2010
Pacific Grove Cobra

Got to bring this on back. Last weekend was one of the world's big car weekends on the Monterey Peninsula with the Pebble Beach Concours, Monterey Historics at Laguna Seca, 5 major auctions and the list goes on.
I had my yellow GTM out in one of the smaller events which is a car show and rally through Pebble Beach and Carmel. The crowds in Carmel were immense, one big street party. Some spectators had signs voting 10 or 9.5.
When the cars were on display, one guy with a 65 inch waist in a fleece warm-up suit with a Ferrari emblem pulled his kid, who wanted to look at the GTM, away telling him, "it's a kit car."
So you can imagine how I felt while going through Pebble Beach when I slowed for traffic and the car coming towards me, stopped, the driver rolled down his window, and said, "great car." Oh, by the way, he was driving a Bugatti Veyron! Made my day.

[The Stig]

8/26/2010
SpyTech

I've only had the GTM on the road a few times, but my first time out I stopped at a gas station. A lady next to me asked why the car didn't have a steering wheel, and then the gas station employees filed out of the building and stood there about 20 ft away gawking and smiling, some with phones out, but no one saying anything. I was nervous as hell, since this was my FIRST public road test with the car and hadn't tested my warm-start 'fix' that I had just implemented a few minutes prior. Luckily it worked and I got the hell out of there.


8/26/2010
Dalton

smile

About every other time on the highway, someone comes speeding up from behind, gets in the passing lane and takes a picture. Makes my day.


9/4/2010
Spytech

Going down the highway yesterday I pass a state trooper in the opposite lane. I watch him in my rearview as he drives over the concrete median making a U-turn, flies up behind me and gets nice and close. I get to the stop lights a mile down the road and figure I'll turn off the highway and pull into a lot and see what he's going to do. Light turns green and while I'm waiting for the arrow he creeps by me at 5mph, slowly looking the GTM over. Smiles and takes off.

10/17/2010
Jdpanero
Yesterday, the local "Make A Wish" chapter rounded up as many "exotic" cars as they could, for a boy named Mauricio.

The GTM was far and away the most popular car, and the 2 Ferrari Daytonas, F430s, and Ford GTs owners did not seem pleased. The Porsche and Vette guys were used to being overlooked.

But, just like everywhere the GTM goes, people can't stop staring and when you tell them that you built it, it blows their mind.

http://i210.photobucket.com/albums/bb94/jmichaelbaskin/Other%20GTMs/JDPanero1.jpg

http://i210.photobucket.com/albums/bb94/jmichaelbaskin/Other%20GTMs/JDPanero2.jpg


10/27/2010
The Stig

My wife and I stopped by Whitby Motorcars last week, and Jeff Collins tells me this story about a kid that was in the shop recently. Jeff's accountant stopped by the shop, and brought his Grandson with him.

From the moment the little guy walked in the shop, he was all smiles. Ear to Ear grinning. He walked around looking at all the different cars that were in there. (Cobras, Coupes, HotRods, Mustangs, and even an MG Midget for good measure). After a while, Jeff took him for a ride in his Cobra.

Needless to say the kid was bouncing off the wall when they got back.

When they got back, Jeff asked the kid what kind of cars he likes. The boy thinks for a second or so and says Ferrari Enzo, Lamborghini, etc... Jeff looks at him and says "come with me, I have a car to show you". He walked the little guy accross the shop and showed him a GTM.

Jeff said to the kid, "You know that Ferrari Enzo that you like so much?" The kid says, Yep! Jeff says to him, "Well this GTM is Faster than it and the Lamborghini. The kid got quiet, and the smile just kept growing across his face...

It's really fun to see kids get into the whole car thing. When he gets older, I'm sure that that he will remember that day when he flashes back to his ""Car Memories".

By The way... The GTM that he saw was mine. I think that's kind of cool!

[VD2021]

5/4/2010
SpyTech
There's a rumor going around my town that 'some crazy dude is building a ferrari in his garage'. It took me a few times of hearing this to realize I was the crazy dude.


5/4/2010
ealingj

Last weekend I was working on my car and had pushed it out of the garage and into the driveway. While I was trying to make my wheel gaps just right my little daughter said to me:

"daddy, why is that guy looking at your car?"

I looked down the driveway and saw a guy sitting parked in his BMW peering over his sunglasses almost leaning out his window hardcore staring at my car. I laughed and said:

"because your daddy's car is cool."

She smiled thinking I was just kidding (as I usually joke around quite a bit with her).

A few minutes later after cutting some of the aluminum to make the hood fit better, my little daughter said:

"daddy, there's another guy looking at your car."

I turn around and sure enough a guy rubber necking big time as he drove past my house. My car is not even close to being done. No paint, no windows. Just doors, hatch, and wheels. Can't imagine the looks after it's actually done!


5/8/2010
kbentzel

I thought I had posted this before….
About a year ago I had just gotten my car on the road and was out on a test/joy ride. I was about twenty miles from home when the car started to overheat. I pulled over and could see that one of the radiator line couplings was leaking. I should be able to correct this and be on my way. Then I thought ‘What kind of an idiot goes on a test drive with no tools?’ Hmmm so I limp into a 7-11 to get water and hopefully a screw driver. I‘m inside looking without success when a guy says ‘Man that’s a beautiful car’. I said thanks but I really need a screwdriver. He says he has one I can borrow so I walk out to the car and there is one guy taking video and another with a cell camera. The whole time I’ trying to squeeze my arm far enough under the car to get to the hose clamp I have people asking what it is, what powers it etc. I get the clamp tight I’m putting water back in when I notice across a six lane highway there is a car show and people are crossing that highway to look at my car at the 7-11. I’m about to fire it up and head home when a black Mercedes pulls up the window comes down and this lovely woman with a French accent says ‘Are you the driver?’ Yes, yes I am!


5/29/2010
ShawnB737

One cool thing - one Police thing

Last night I had to pull into the local grocery store and was with my wife on the way to a friends house. I parked 5 cars deep on one of the rows and left it running with the AC on and my wife stayed in the car. I am running the FFR stock exhaust and have a pretty nice "lopey" cam in it. As I approached the store I could still here my car probably 100 feet behind me. I was not in the store more than 5 min and I guess the word spread through all the baggage boys what was in the parking lot. She asked if they made a PA in the store that a cool car was in the parking lot? I said no, why? She said every bag boy in the store came over to the car and was walking around it. She had sent me a text to "Hurry up!" As I was walking up one of the boys said' "man that's an awesome car!" My wife doesn't like to be the center of attention and the GTM sure does put you there!!


Last night my wife and I were on the way home around 1am. I stopped at the one of the only stop signs in the town I live close to and there was a police officer at the opposite stop sign. My wife says I bet he pulls us over. I made a right turn and then the next left and sure enough the lights came on. I pulled over, turned my car off, turned the inside lights on and rolled down the window. Then the officer said the standard drivers license and insurance. Then he came back and said I pulled you over because you don't have a license plate light. "I don't?" He left again to check my record and then came back and gave me this whole BS story of how criminals turn off or unplug their license plate light and that is why I was pulled over. He was kinda rude about it. Then the other officer went to the passenger side and tried to open the door, which was kinda funny since there are no exterior handles. He leaves then comes back again and taps on the passenger side and my wife opens the door. She had two dishes of left over food in her lap and a six pack with 3 bottles left in it on the floor. The officer asked her twice: "Any open containers in here?" She answered twice - "No there are no OPEN containers in here." Then the other officer that went to my wife's side came around and said, "Hey man what kind of car is this, man it is awesome, how long did it take to build, blah blah blah.." The first officer said that this is a verbal warning and you can go...I told them to be safe and I slowly pulled away...My wife said that if they wanted to check out your car just say so!!

As guys have said before on this site: If you are needing to get in and out of somewhere quick - don't drive your GTM. It will slow you down with people wanting to know about it or talk to you about it!


8/20/2010
Pacific Grove Cobra

Got to bring this on back. Last weekend was one of the world's big car weekends on the Monterey Peninsula with the Pebble Beach Concours, Monterey Historics at Laguna Seca, 5 major auctions and the list goes on.
I had my yellow GTM out in one of the smaller events which is a car show and rally through Pebble Beach and Carmel. The crowds in Carmel were immense, one big street party. Some spectators had signs voting 10 or 9.5.
When the cars were on display, one guy with a 65 inch waist in a fleece warm-up suit with a Ferrari emblem pulled his kid, who wanted to look at the GTM, away telling him, "it's a kit car."
So you can imagine how I felt while going through Pebble Beach when I slowed for traffic and the car coming towards me, stopped, the driver rolled down his window, and said, "great car." Oh, by the way, he was driving a Bugatti Veyron! Made my day.


I have to say that Kbentzel's is one of the best........

[The Stig]

Since we're now on the Factory Five Forum, maybe Dave Smith has a story or two that he can share, about his experiences with the GTM!

[sk7500]

Well I don't know if this passes as cool but it sure made me laugh. Every year for the past three or four years my friend and partner Frank, puts on this huge car people get together at his house. There are usually about 150 cars and 400 car people milling around. We've been working on our GTM for about for about a year and a half when this years event happened and I put our car together as best I could, mainly so the parts weren't scattered everywhere. Our GTM was in the main shop area and I overheard a couple talking about the car. The man was trying to explain to his wife that this was a kit car and what that meant. The wife looked at the car with a look of disgust and said "do you think they bought it all beat up like that" It made me look at our car from a whole new perspective and that saying about a face only a mother could love made a little more sense:D


770771772

[crash]

Yes, one must be able to visualize the potential of something, as opposed to how they currently are, when building a custom car! :)

[The Stig]

These cars come with their own "Rock Star" statuses. Everywhere you go, it draws a crowd. When you look around, people have their cameras or cell phones out snapping pictures. Most just stare, with their mouths hanging open...

There are a steadily increasing number of these beautiful cars, making their way to the streets and highways. Surely there must be a few new stories to share... :cool:

[Dj_Seph]

I truly can't wait until my own stories can be told though I do get quite the good amount of attention with the 5.0.

[The Stig]

I created a thread that shows a photo gallary of finished GTM's. So far, I have 60 plus finished cars shown. But very few of them seem to have been driven... Because there don't seem to be any new stories that the owners want to share. :cool:

Come on guys!

[Pierre-Alexandre]

Let's de sunny warm summer days come back from their vacations and I think we will get more and more of thoses great stories will e shared with us.

[spytech]

I was at the gas station and an older woman was watching me pump gas. She finally came over and asked 'how do you drive that thing without a steering wheel?' (I get asked this a lot, btw). I simply told her that it has electrodes that I connect to my temples and I just think where it has to go. She said 'technology sure has come a long way' and just stood there looking at the car.

lmao

[comm4330]

I was at the gas station and an older woman was watching me pump gas. She finally came over and asked 'how do you drive that thing without a steering wheel?' (I get asked this a lot, btw). I simply told her that it has electrodes that I connect to my temples and I just think where it has to go. She said 'technology sure has come a long way' and just stood there looking at the car.

lmao
LMAO ! Awesome !

[spytech]

Took the GTM out tonight to one of my favorite twisty back roads. As I turned onto the road I noticed a group of people in lawn chairs sitting along one of the corners. They all wave and take pictures. "This is odd", I thought. I come around another corner and see another group of 10-15 people. This repeats 4-5 times until I come around another corner and see a line of cars approaching (over 100 at least). Turns out there was some car show cruise going through and I had no idea it was going on. I felt bad for the oncoming cars because as I would approach each group of people on each corner they would all turn and point and start taking pictures, with their backs to the long line of cars parading past in the other lane. The one-car GTM parade. Good times.

[The Stig]

That's pretty cool.
These cars draw crowds sitting still, much less driving down the road.
The fact that the onlookers were watching your car, instead of the line of show cars in the other lane, pretty much tells it all!

[afourcault]

Dont Own one yet but I was at the local 7-11 in a long line (as usual) and when I got to the counter I paid in some change cus the majority of my left over cash goes to my"GTM fund" the guy behind me was like "someone is saving for something big" when I told him what I was saving for he started laughing hard. When I asked him what was so funny he told me that he was saving up to by a cobra kit from ffr. Couldn't believe it. Small world out there and made a new friend. He even offered to help me assemble the kit when I get it. All thanks to the GTM I don't own yet lol.Said it before this community rocks and is very close knit. I love it!

[spytech]

Couple guys at the gas station were asking about the GTM tonight. As they were walking away I heard one say 'and I thought that new lambo I saw was the coolest car ever'.

Feels good, man.

[The Stig]

That's a cool thing... Thanks for consistently sharing your experiences with your GTM. I've seen the new Lambo. It's a very nice car. But just like your new fans, I think the GTM is cooler.

ALso, I promise to help you support this thread when I finally get my car on the road.

[The Stig]

GTMKris (http://www.ffcars.com/forums/members/9768-gtmkris.html)

Drove the car for the first time yesterday evening. Since I just got my tags I had to take it down the road even though I hadn't installed a radio yet. So, I went to Autozone to get a trim piece for my tags. First off traffic was slowing down and people were rubber necking like after a car wreck. It was so bad that I got embarrassed and had to put the windows up. LOL. I was in my work clothes. So I get to Autozone and walk in to get my parts and come back to the front of the store and there was a crowd around the car. There is this one kid there about 18 or so that has been rude to me twice before. He drives a cavalier that is three different colors. I'm not hating on him because I was there when I was his age. Well he was the only one that would not come outside and was there to check me out. He rang me out and when I went to leave he said... I used to have one of those...but mine had a VW motor in it. I said cool man and walked out the door into the paparazi. There was pic's being taken, people asking me questions like I was a sports star after a big game. 20 min later I got to leave. Everyone was still outside and watched me drive off.

It was a blast, but don't take this car if you are in a hurry.

[Kempo]

LOL, that kids Gtm must have Been a fast one with all that power from the VW engine. He should have asked him if the engine was from a 60s or 70s beetle.

[The Stig]

http://i210.photobucket.com/albums/bb94/jmichaelbaskin/DSC_0952.jpg

The GTM was delivered today. It's not finished, but it's home!

http://i210.photobucket.com/albums/bb94/jmichaelbaskin/DSC_0966.jpg

We rolled it out of the trailer and into the cul-de-sac in front of my house. I eased it up the driveway to make sure that the RamLift Pro would allow it to clear the initial angle to get up to the garage. Then I drove it nose first back down the driveway to make sure that I could clear the ground when driving out. (Otherwise I'd have to back out). When I got back out onto the road safely, I decided to take it down to the end of the street and back.

As I made my way down the street, I passed a home where a man was watering the bushes in front of his house. He heard the car coming and made a quick glance in my direction and turned back to his bushes. And then he quickly swung back around to take another look as I went by. When he did, he dropped his water hose and sprayer. The sprayer nozzle hit the ground and sprayed him in the face. He stood there getting sprayed while I drove by, and then moved after I passed by.

I sort of thought that was funny.

http://i210.photobucket.com/albums/bb94/jmichaelbaskin/DSC_1008.jpg

http://i210.photobucket.com/albums/bb94/jmichaelbaskin/DSC_1009.jpg

http://i210.photobucket.com/albums/bb94/jmichaelbaskin/DSC_1010.jpg

http://i210.photobucket.com/albums/bb94/jmichaelbaskin/DSC_1003.jpg

[kabacj]

So how long did you stand and stare at your car in the garage? At the end of a days work I'll often stare for a while. I bet it's nice to have her back running and driving.

John

[The Stig]

So how long did you stand and stare at your car in the garage? At the end of a days work I'll often stare for a while. I bet it's nice to have her back running and driving.

John

LOL, I stopped when I got into the car to drive to the airport to come to Columbus for the week. Otherwise, I'm sure I'd be finding more excuses to be outside in the garage...

[VD2021]

So how long did you stand and stare at your car in the garage? At the end of a days work I'll often stare for a while. I bet it's nice to have her back running and driving.

John


LOL, I stopped when I got into the car to drive to the airport to come to Columbus for the week. Otherwise, I'm sure I'd be finding more excuses to be outside in the garage...

Gentlemen,
I find myself just starring too. Only I can't stop thinking while I do it. John Maxwell says a successful person’s greatest resource in difficult times is "good thinking".

Mike,
The second from the last picture is extremely cool (even with the Ramliftpro up). The stance, paint and that driver looks serious.:).

[Nitetrain]

Some cool stories and a little update on the progress.

I have finished most of the major stuff and just have a few details to finish like polishing the clear coat, realigning the steering wheel, and installing the windshield wiper. Besides that, she is registered and I have been driving her to work on nice days with no mechanical problems or over heating (knock on wood).

My theme has always been to build a car with a small budget so I do not have to worry about making it a daily driver or parking it where ever I want…so that is what I have. The finished product cost around 32K and is putting 405hp to the tires through a G50-05 gearbox with LSD. All I can say is “holy buckets, she is fast.” I drive her to work and speed into parking, then close the door and just walk away…acting like I did not notice the other two other cars that followed me all the way to my parking spot.

The wife and I work on an Air Force base. She is the commander of her squadron, and has the best parking spaces…so I take one for the GTM. She said that she was busy with some paper work one day when she noticed someone out her window with a camera. When she got up to see what was going on, she found a few guys around the car trying to figure out what it was. “Is it a Ferrari?” Well… it is kind of like a Ferrari, but faster and about 1/10 the cost.

Last week I was driving home, and noticed a black mustang following. When I finally got to the house the mustang pulled up and two High School kids jumped out. “We were doing 90 and could not catch you.” I mentored them on the importance of staying within the speed limit then gave them a tour of the car. They loved the lines of the car and were amazed you could build something like this in your own garage. I guess one of the coolest things about the GTM is showing some of the young guys what they can do with their hands if they put in the time.

About driving the car…I am about 6’1” and fit just comfortably. This is kind of funny…while working on the car I probably climbed into and out of it a thousand times. It become fairly failure while in the garage, but when you are in a parking lot and you know people are watching, it just feels like you are laying down on the ground since the car is so low. The car accelerates like crazy and drives really nicely over smooth roads, but when the roads get bumpy, there is a bit of bump steer. You really have to keep two hands on the wheel. While I am comfortable with most mechanical stuff, I could use some advice on setting up the suspension for the best ride and control. Whoever said, don’t spend too much money on a nice stereo, was right. I have some sound reductions material around the interior, but it is just a loud car. The gear box could use a taller final gear. I would be around 3000rpm to get 80mph. I have an extra G 50-20 that I may swap out to get the rpm’s down a bit.

Here is a pic of how she looks right now. I will try to get a few more around the car.

Huge thanks to everyone on the forum that helped with advice. Not to intentionally leaving anyone out, I would say a huge thanks to Vidal, Shane, Crash and the guys at Factory Five Racing.

Live to fly...

Dave

[crash]

Looks really good, and I love red on these cars!

[dm65]

Man I love that story. Can't wait to get mine finished!!!! It will be RED too!!! Thanks for the picture.

[VD2021]

Some cool stories and a little update on the progress.

I have finished most of the major stuff and just have a few details to finish like polishing the clear coat, realigning the steering wheel, and installing the windshield wiper. Besides that, she is registered and I have been driving her to work on nice days with no mechanical problems or over heating (knock on wood).

My theme has always been to build a car with a small budget so I do not have to worry about making it a daily driver or parking it where ever I want…so that is what I have. The finished product cost around 32K and is putting 405hp to the tires through a G50-05 gearbox with LSD. All I can say is “holy buckets, she is fast.” I drive her to work and speed into parking, then close the door and just walk away…acting like I did not notice the other two other cars that followed me all the way to my parking spot.

The wife and I work on an Air Force base. She is the commander of her squadron, and has the best parking spaces…so I take one for the GTM. She said that she was busy with some paper work one day when she noticed someone out her window with a camera. When she got up to see what was going on, she found a few guys around the car trying to figure out what it was. “Is it a Ferrari?” Well… it is kind of like a Ferrari, but faster and about 1/10 the cost.

Last week I was driving home, and noticed a black mustang following. When I finally got to the house the mustang pulled up and two High School kids jumped out. “We were doing 90 and could not catch you.” I mentored them on the importance of staying within the speed limit then gave them a tour of the car. They loved the lines of the car and were amazed you could build something like this in your own garage. I guess one of the coolest things about the GTM is showing some of the young guys what they can do with their hands if they put in the time.

About driving the car…I am about 6’1” and fit just comfortably. This is kind of funny…while working on the car I probably climbed into and out of it a thousand times. It become fairly failure while in the garage, but when you are in a parking lot and you know people are watching, it just feels like you are laying down on the ground since the car is so low. The car accelerates like crazy and drives really nicely over smooth roads, but when the roads get bumpy, there is a bit of bump steer. You really have to keep two hands on the wheel. While I am comfortable with most mechanical stuff, I could use some advice on setting up the suspension for the best ride and control. Whoever said, don’t spend too much money on a nice stereo, was right. I have some sound reductions material around the interior, but it is just a loud car. The gear box could use a taller final gear. I would be around 3000rpm to get 80mph. I have an extra G 50-20 that I may swap out to get the rpm’s down a bit.

Here is a pic of how she looks right now. I will try to get a few more around the car.

Huge thanks to everyone on the forum that helped with advice. Not to intentionally leaving anyone out, I would say a huge thanks to Vidal, Shane, Crash and the guys at Factory Five Racing.

Live to fly...

Dave

Dave,

Outstanding! And you're driving it often. Great job.

[The Stig]

Dave,

That's a way cool story, and awesome to hear that you're able to drive it as often as you do.

I think you've won the prize for lowest cost build. You certainly can't tell it by looking at it. You've built a very nice looking car!

Take care Buddy!

[LCD Gauges]

Today I was working on my daily driver (replacing front, left LCA) and the kid across
the street came over to introduce himself.

He saw me working on the GTM the day before and was curious to learn more. After the
cliche, "Ooooo, ahhhhh moment" he began to tell me about some of the neighbours.

Apparently there are two Porsches, and one Lamborghini on my street.

I knew about one Porsche that burns up, and down the road quite frequently. It belongs
to the son of the Lambo owner (that's 944(?) you hear in my last video upload).

It appears I'll have some stiff competition waiting for me! I will have to introduce
myself, and find out which Lamborghini is hiding away.

[The Stig]

http://thefactoryfiveforum.com/showthread.php?6192-Thanks-NiteTrain!!!

I wanted to add this link to this thread, because to me, it was a very cool thing. And it came about as a direct result of my meeting Dave "Nitetrain" Pryor, here on the GTM Forum.

Enjoy,

[Kempo]

Bump for a new story.

[LCD Gauges]

\You asked for a new story, so here's a decent one (from my point of view):

If you recall from one of my previous posts, I'm in a new neighbourhood and getting to know my neighbours. Yesterday as I'm working on the car,
I'm checking out the "noise" happening up the street. My garage is open, and the GTM is within view. As he's driving down the hill, I wave and give
thumbs-up to the boat.

He rolls down the passenger window, and starts yelling...couldn't hear, so I walked to the road. We had a quick conversation about the GTM and his
absolutely amazing spped boat. This is the dude with the Lambo, Porsche, Ford Raptor, Suburban, 28 ft. trailer, Merc. SUV., ummm need I say more?
I want his money, and all of his toys. Eventually, I will sleep with him, and become best friends to earn the right to drive his cars, and borrow his boat.
That's just how it works around here. :cool: :D
http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/380230_10151216255924148_445721165_n.jpg
http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/600806_10151216256059148_223838496_n.jpg

Afterward, the neighbour across the street came over to introduce himself. He's a GM engineer, and owns the only red special edition Pontiac Solstice in Canada.
I think he said it was #3 off the line? We talked for what seemed like 20 minutes, and there's quite a bit in common between us. For the next auto show, I'm getting
some tickets on the house, and VIP pass to some private showing. Apparently the 2014 Vette will be on display. New headlight design, and killer engine boasting over
650 HP naturally aspirated. No camera's will be allowed unfortunately.

He says he can help me source some stuff for my car too. My new neighbours are freakin' much cooler than my old Cambridge neighbours! :P

I don't know if the GTM is a result of these cool deals, but it certainly is a great ice-breaker, and perhaps opens some doors to conversations that might not have happened.

P.S. Saw this cool custom bike on the way home today. Wicked airbrushed art on the side. I have a video if anyone wants to see it.
http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/282351_10151216256219148_641498319_n.jpg

[crash]

The 2013/14 Vette is rumored to have direct injection. This will not only be a high HP engine, but also very efficient as well. :)

[LCD Gauges]

DI would be an excellent step forward for the 2 valve, push-rod technology that GM continues to pound out. I'm betting the new motor will bolt-up to the same transaxle which means a direct-injection engine may eventually find its way into a GTM without much modification.

[Edgeman]

Bump

[Edgeman]

Should be some good stories out there.

[The Stig]

Last post was from September of Last year. There have been a few GTM that have been completed in the past few months. So surely there are a few new stories out there. :cool:

Let's see if we can get some motivation back into the builds of those who are still trying to finish up. I know that when I read these stories, It pumped me up, and kept it interesting for me.

Let's hear 'em guys!

[eseethal]

I might have a nice story to share with you: last year in the summer I was attending a wedding with my wife (and not with my GTM). Later in the evening a girl (really attractive and how it later turns out, a REAL car nut!) approaches me, while my wife was talking with someone else two feet away. The girl says to me: “I know you, you drive this hot, red, super-flat sports car!”
I (a little astonished): “yes, than could be right, how do you know?”
She (a little embarrassed):” I saw this incredibly hot car parked near a restaurant a couple of weeks ago. I got out of my car and took a few pictures (she really shows me the photos on her phone!). Afterwards I tried to figure out which car that was – but nobody I know could help me – not even my boyfriend. Two weeks later my boyfriend comes home late at night and tells me, that the red car is parking at the same spot again. So I (she was blushing a little when she told me this) got out again in the middle of the night, drove to the location to check out the incredible car once more. Then I decided to hide in the dark until the car leaves to hear the engine sound. A while later I saw YOU coming out of the restaurant and leaving with the GTM!”
Can you believe this? I was so proud and happy! We chatted for a while, she was really nice and a total car enthusiast with a lot of knowledge in this field – especially for a girl! She even found out later what car that was.
My wife, who really hates the GTM and does not like to ride with me in the GTM, overheard this conversation (incredibly sharp ears, when she sees me talking to a girl!). She could not believe what she heard!
That definitely made my day!

Eugen

[rev2xs]

LOL, gotta love Europe aye Eugene? ;)


I might have a nice story to share with you: last year in the summer I was attending a wedding with my wife (and not with my GTM). Later in the evening a girl (really attractive and how it later turns out, a REAL car nut!) approaches me, while my wife was talking with someone else two feet away. The girl says to me: “I know you, you drive this hot, red, super-flat sports car!”
I (a little astonished): “yes, than could be right, how do you know?”
She (a little embarrassed):” I saw this incredibly hot car parked near a restaurant a couple of weeks ago. I got out of my car and took a few pictures (she really shows me the photos on her phone!). Afterwards I tried to figure out which car that was – but nobody I know could help me – not even my boyfriend. Two weeks later my boyfriend comes home late at night and tells me, that the red car is parking at the same spot again. So I (she was blushing a little when she told me this) got out again in the middle of the night, drove to the location to check out the incredible car once more. Then I decided to hide in the dark until the car leaves to hear the engine sound. A while later I saw YOU coming out of the restaurant and leaving with the GTM!”
Can you believe this? I was so proud and happy! We chatted for a while, she was really nice and a total car enthusiast with a lot of knowledge in this field – especially for a girl! She even found out later what car that was.
My wife, who really hates the GTM and does not like to ride with me in the GTM, overheard this conversation (incredibly sharp ears, when she sees me talking to a girl!). She could not believe what she heard!
That definitely made my day!

Eugen

[fastthings]

I might have a nice story to share with you: last year in the summer I was attending a wedding with my wife (and not with my GTM). Later in the evening a girl (really attractive and how it later turns out, a REAL car nut!) approaches me, while my wife was talking with someone else two feet away. The girl says to me: “I know you, you drive this hot, red, super-flat sports car!”
I (a little astonished): “yes, than could be right, how do you know?”
She (a little embarrassed):” I saw this incredibly hot car parked near a restaurant a couple of weeks ago. I got out of my car and took a few pictures (she really shows me the photos on her phone!). Afterwards I tried to figure out which car that was – but nobody I know could help me – not even my boyfriend. Two weeks later my boyfriend comes home late at night and tells me, that the red car is parking at the same spot again. So I (she was blushing a little when she told me this) got out again in the middle of the night, drove to the location to check out the incredible car once more. Then I decided to hide in the dark until the car leaves to hear the engine sound. A while later I saw YOU coming out of the restaurant and leaving with the GTM!”
Can you believe this? I was so proud and happy! We chatted for a while, she was really nice and a total car enthusiast with a lot of knowledge in this field – especially for a girl! She even found out later what car that was.
My wife, who really hates the GTM and does not like to ride with me in the GTM, overheard this conversation (incredibly sharp ears, when she sees me talking to a girl!). She could not believe what she heard!
That definitely made my day!

Eugen

Cool story, I think you need to give her a ride!

[dallas_]

Great story! I would guess you have the only GTM in Salzburg. :)
One of my all time favorite cities.

[crash]

I bet that made your wife change her mind and now she loves it, right? (sarcasm)

[JJ'snakepit]

It motivates me to work hard on my Cobra. 4 years and still at it. Great thread guys, thanks for sharing.

[eseethal]

Thanks, yes, in whole Austria it is just on other GTM (which I have never seen in real life). I assume, there is not going to be another one, to get the GTM street legal here gets more and more complicated (and expensive!). Just the emissions tax cost me over $ 10.000,-.
I anyone plans to visit Salzburg (or Austria), contact me, I would like to show you around or assist you what ever you need!
Eugen


Great story! I would guess you have the only GTM in Salzburg. :)
One of my all time favorite cities.

[eseethal]

I offered here a ride, but it has not happend yet, my wife is probably a bit of an obstacle here :-(

Cool story, I think you need to give her a ride!

[eseethal]

Maybe her massiv disapproval of the GTM gets a little softened up during the time, as she realizes that there a lot of people (even girls!) out there, who actually are big fans of this car. She still wants me to sell it though, but no chance :-)


I bet that made your wife change her mind and now she loves it, right? (sarcasm)

[mmaragos]

"massive disapproval" LOL

My wife only has minor disapproval.

Thanks for your post!

[Kalstar]

As long as she doesn't take the GTM in the divorce........

[posthaste]

After Oprah has instructed us for years to be more supportive, you think the woman-folk could take their own advice that they nodded to on the couch while oinking down the bonbons.....

[The Stig]

After Oprah has instructed us for years to be more supportive, you think the woman-folk could take their own advice that they nodded to on the couch while oinking down the bonbons.....

Really?.... Oprah?.... Here?.... Unless she has recently built a GTM, can fit into it, and has a cool story to tell about it, I'd really rather not have to deal with deleting her image from my mind. But that's just me.

[fastthings]

really?.... Oprah?.... Here?.... Unless she has built a gtm, can fit into it, and has a cool story to tell about it, i'd really not have to deal with deleting her image from my mind. But that's just me.

Mike

lol

[The Stig]

I might have a nice story to share with you: last year in the summer I was attending a wedding with my wife (and not with my GTM). Later in the evening a girl (really attractive and how it later turns out, a REAL car nut!) approaches me, while my wife was talking with someone else two feet away. The girl says to me: “I know you, you drive this hot, red, super-flat sports car!”
I (a little astonished): “yes, than could be right, how do you know?”
She (a little embarrassed):” I saw this incredibly hot car parked near a restaurant a couple of weeks ago. I got out of my car and took a few pictures (she really shows me the photos on her phone!). Afterwards I tried to figure out which car that was – but nobody I know could help me – not even my boyfriend. Two weeks later my boyfriend comes home late at night and tells me, that the red car is parking at the same spot again. So I (she was blushing a little when she told me this) got out again in the middle of the night, drove to the location to check out the incredible car once more. Then I decided to hide in the dark until the car leaves to hear the engine sound. A while later I saw YOU coming out of the restaurant and leaving with the GTM!”
Can you believe this? I was so proud and happy! We chatted for a while, she was really nice and a total car enthusiast with a lot of knowledge in this field – especially for a girl! She even found out later what car that was.
My wife, who really hates the GTM and does not like to ride with me in the GTM, overheard this conversation (incredibly sharp ears, when she sees me talking to a girl!). She could not believe what she heard!
That definitely made my day!

Eugen

Hi Eugen,

Great story! You never know where you're going to run into fans of this car. I've always thought that these cars come with their own rock star image. We're just along for the ride. Most women who aren't into cars see them as nothing more than "chick magnets". As a result they tend to have a negative view of them, because the car just became "competition". I would imagine that after you take your wife for a few rides, and she becomes part of the fun, she might change her view. Who knows? I wish you luck in that regard, and huge Congrats on building such a beautiful GTM.

Enjoy! You deserve it.

[eseethal]

Stig, thanks for your nice comments! Regarding the poor relation my wife has with my GTM: I am afraid this it not going to change because
- she does not mind when we drive fast in a regular sportscar, but in the GTM it is too much a "roller coaster ride" for her (and she hates roller coasters!)
- once she hurt something inside her shoulder when climbing out of the GTM. She was reaching for the roof line to pull herself out (I have the Tillet carbon race seats). She is in good shape, makes Yoga all the time, is very light weight (100 lbs) but somehow the GTM managed to hurt her!
- she does not like the attention the GTM gets - it is embarrassing for her
- too loud and way to hot inside (no A/C!)

But who knows - she first hated my Hummer H1 the same way, now she really likes the Hummer, compared to the GTM :-)

Eugen



Hi Eugen,

Great story! You never know where you're going to run into fans of this car. I've always thought that these cars come with their own rock star image. We're just along for the ride. Most women who aren't into cars see them as nothing more than "chick magnets". As a result they tend to have a negative view of them, because the car just became "competition". I would imagine that after you take your wife for a few rides, and she becomes part of the fun, she might change her view. Who knows? I wish you luck in that regard, and huge Congrats on building such a beautiful GTM.

Enjoy! You deserve it.

[fastthings]

Stig, thanks for your nice comments! Regarding the poor relation my wife has with my GTM: I am afraid this it not going to change because
- she does not mind when we drive fast in a regular sportscar, but in the GTM it is too much a "roller coaster ride" for her (and she hates roller coasters!)
- once she hurt something inside her shoulder when climbing out of the GTM. She was reaching for the roof line to pull herself out (I have the Tillet carbon race seats). She is in good shape, makes Yoga all the time, is very light weight (100 lbs) but somehow the GTM managed to hurt her!
- she does not like the attention the GTM gets - it is embarrassing for her
- too loud and way to hot inside (no A/C!)

But who knows - she first hated my Hummer H1 the same way, now she really likes the Hummer, compared to the GTM :-)

Eugen

Make her a car now, give it the same importance, and attention as you gave the GTM. I think they get jealous, my wife does. I have to stop often and put down some hardwood flooring, or new light fictures.

*Man, this is a topic we can all relate with, huh.

[LCD Gauges]

An update on a previous story that was posted on the first page:

If you recall, my neighbour across the street (GM Engineer) had invited me to a private showing of the new Corvette. Well, that never happened. It turned out the viewing was for coporate/employees only.
A couple of days ago he popped over while I was working on the car with posters, and booklets in hand. He said, "I've been feeling so bad about the Corvette incident that I grabbed these [from the Detroit
Auto Show]"

1655316554

I said, "Thanks, but these posters don't equal a private show. I'm never going to forgive you for that!"

After a few giggles, he began to tell me about the Vette, and the display booth at the show. It's apparent that GM is going to bump the marketing on this car.
They are also going to make a smaller displacement, entry level version around the $55K mark. Hopefully he'll send me pictures of the Auto Show soon.

He also gave me a photo that he snapped when he came over the first time. I'm embarrased to show this, but it's nice to see how far the GTM has grown since
then (this is a picture, of a picture). You can see the sloppy mess of hoses, and wires over the engine, along with the aluminum panels scattered on the garage floor:
16555

Not much of a story, but he's the only person to come through on his word. I've had a few people fill my ears with junk just to impress me? The best chat-up was the guy
that wanted to build, and sell GTM's in China. Yeah, right...:rolleyes:

I must say, I've met several people, and have been approched by strangers that never would have happened without owning the FFR GTM. It has been fun, and it's not even
out of the garage yet!

[LCD Gauges]

This pic is long overdue; it's the neighbour from up the street. We finally 'met', and chatted up about cars outside of our usual "waving from the street". Met the father, and son as they pulled up...damn that Lambo sounds sexy! 23 yr. old driving a Porsche! We then walked over to my place and talked about the GTM. The kid (Mike) knew
the kit car as GTM without saying a word. Good on Factory Five!


16836
Had my share of people approach me as they walk by; last week a real estate agent popped over, and introduced himself.
Says he has a Grand National, and needs some help. Figured I'd be the guy since I'm always slaving away in my garage.

A car cover from my Camaro that was draped over the GTM today. A bit loose without the body; it's just the cage.
I hope it fits somewhat tighter once the shell goes on. Next to the wife's Malibu, it barely reaches the door handles.
16837

Speaking of rims, they gotta go. No offense to the Corvette, or Vette owners as I LOVE the car!
This kit has been called a Vette too many times with those C5 rims. :cool:
16838

[kabacj]

While my car was waiting to go out on the track this weekend a guy in a beautiful Audi R8 stopped his car and snapped a cell phone pic. Everyone snaps cell phone pics, but this one was special.

John

[Kalstar]

Just had to share.

Today I went a Cars and Copters (a Jimmy fund sponsored) car show. Over 4000 cars showed up. When I got there they put me in the exotic section (about 40 cars). I was between a Ferrari 612 and a Ferrari 348. Then this group of ultra highend exotics came in, about a dozen of them. A Spyker, Mercialargo, 3 Gallardo models, V8 Vantage, a Gran Turismo, 2 Ferrari 458, 2 430 drop tops and a comp M3 drift car. They were put center stage in reserved spots. One of the Lambo owners was a former GTM owner. When they found out my car was there they offered to make room over with them. It was great to be welcomed in to that high of a car group "just like that". They walked past the 612 and several other worthy cars to invite me over.

When I was ready to leave, a 430 had pulled out and stopped in the main exit road filling the air with the most beautiful revs, behind him was a Gallardo hard top, then my GTM and a Gallardo Spyder behind me. The exit road was wide and had people on both sides hoping to see burnouts or hot-dogging. The cops were there and were just as content to watch. I gave a punch at the throttle a few times but it was clear the Ferrari was singing a whole different song. He threw it in gear and took off with the Gallardo right behind. I was a little hesitent but I layed into the go pedal too and quickly reeled them both in. The people on each side of the road just erupted into fist pumps and cheers as we rocketed by. The Lambo behind me was well behind by the time I had cleared the crowd and could look back. When the 430 and the Lambo infront of me went around the bend along the back of the hangers and exited out of the corner they layed into their cars again. When I could safetly hammer in to the GTM the 2 cars were 300 feet ahead of me, again I quickly reeled them both in. It would have been gratifing saying I was powered by a little 5.3L truck engine but the end of the day, it was clear that the GTM (even with my modest power level) can run with and past the big dogs. I would also venture to say that other then the Spyker it was the second most studied car there. God I love this car!

[Kempo]

Great story Jim. It's a unique feeling isn't it? And to know that you built it yourself makes it even more special. Thanks for sharing.


Just had to share.

Today I went a Cars and Copters (a Jimmy fund sponsored) car show. Over 4000 cars showed up. When I got there they put me in the exotic section (about 40 cars). I was between a Ferrari 612 and a Ferrari 348. Then this group of ultra highend exotics came in, about a dozen of them. A Spyker, Mercialargo, 3 Gallardo models, V8 Vantage, a Gran Turismo, 2 Ferrari 458, 2 430 drop tops and a comp M3 drift car. They were put center stage in reserved spots. One of the Lambo owners was a former GTM owner. When they found out my car was there they offered to make room over with them. It was great to be welcomed in to that high of a car group "just like that". They walked past the 612 and several other worthy cars to invite me over.

When I was ready to leave, a 430 had pulled out and stopped in the main exit road filling the air with the most beautiful revs, behind him was a Gallardo hard top, then my GTM and a Gallardo Spyder behind me. The exit road was wide and had people on both sides hoping to see burnouts or hot-dogging. The cops were there and were just as content to watch. I gave a punch at the throttle a few times but it was clear the Ferrari was singing a whole different song. He threw it in gear and took off with the Gallardo right behind. I was a little hesitent but I layed into the go pedal too and quickly reeled them both in. The people on each side of the road just erupted into fist pumps and cheers as we rocketed by. The Lambo behind me was well behind by the time I had cleared the crowd and could look back. When the 430 and the Lambo infront of me went around the bend along the back of the hangers and exited out of the corner they layed into their cars again. When I could safetly hammer in to the GTM the 2 cars were 300 feet ahead of me, again I quickly reeled them both in. It would have been gratifing saying I was powered by a little 5.3L truck engine but the end of the day, it was clear that the GTM (even with my modest power level) can run with and past the big dogs. I would also venture to say that other then the Spyker it was the second most studied car there. God I love this car!

[The Stig]

That had to be an over the top feeling... Huge

Congrats!!! And Wow!!! 4000 cars at a cars and copter show is incredible.

And being asked to have your car share Center Stage in the Exotic bull pen is just Sweet!

[VD2021]

Bump

[LCD Gauges]

Not while driving, but while working in the garage. People stop in to check out the GTM, and chat about cars.

Had a guy approach me to ask if I'd check out his '83 Lotus Esprit. He found this for sale near roadside with a busted windshield
from a fallen branch. This car was posted on my bedroom wall as a teen, so I was excited to get my hands on it.
Dual carb, turbo, and a Blaupunkt cassette player to boot!

It turns out the head gasket is blown out. Lots of coolant in the oil.

The GTM opens many new doors for sure; I never had anyone want to check out my Saturn SC1 yet! :p


21774217752177621777

[fastthings]

So..is it yours now. That would be a cool car to restore.

[The Stig]

Who has a great, or funny, or just plain cool GTM story to tell?

The last post here was 2 years ago...

Surely there have been some really cool things that have happened as a result of Building and owning your GTM.

Take care,

[LCD Gauges]

Alright, I'll add one:

About two weeks ago I was picking up supplies at a local auto store. A guy walked through the isle and said, "Hello, how are you?".

I replied that I was fine, but couldn't recall where I had seen this man before. Then he asked how my car was coming along...all of a
sudden it rang a bell!

This was the real-estate agent that stopped by just over a year ago while passing casually. I couldn't believe he remembered my face
after all this time. We had a good five minute talk about his Grand National that I remembered he was building. We exchanged contact
info, and went on our way.

A very cool feeling to cross paths, and randomly spark up conversation about cars!

[Kalstar]

Last summer I was with my then 9 year old son at a fairly large local car show. I like to hang back, usually a few cars down. This well dressed man of late teens to early 20's is closely studying the GTM. He looks as if he was going to some formal function as he was way overdressed for a car show. He left and returned several times. On his 3rd visit he brought back a very attractive girl also dressed for an occasion. My guess was a close relative but not wife or girlfriend as there was never eye contact between the 2. I do have to say, with her heals and a short skirt the height of the GTM was welcomed by anyone within eyeshot. She eventually realized that bending down at her waste to look in the window created quite a "draft". As the two walked around the car he was asking self questions out loud, what is this, what is the engine, what does the owner do to afford a car like this? My son says "we should go talk to them" as I approach both my son and I hear the girl say "you want to ride in the car, I want to ride on the owner". I introduced myself and answered their questions. A few days later my son, laying on the couch with me in the loft, my wife on the other couch, says out of the blue, "I think I know what she meant". I said who? He said "the girl at the car show". You do? What do you think she meant, of course I was thinking something completely innocent. He says Mom...this hot girl wants to have sex with Dad. That went over like a fart in church.

[The Stig]

Lol!!!!!!!

[Kempo]

last summer i was with my then 9 year old son at a fairly large local car show. I like to hang back, usually a few cars down. This well dressed man of late teens to early 20's is closely studying the gtm. He looks as if he was going to some formal function as he was way overdressed for a car show. He left and returned several times. On his 3rd visit he brought back a very attractive girl also dressed for an occasion. My guess was a close relative but not wife or girlfriend as there was never eye contact between the 2. I do have to say, with her heals and a short skirt the height of the gtm was welcomed by anyone within eyeshot. She eventually realized that bending down at her waste to look in the window created quite a "draft". As the two walked around the car he was asking self questions out loud, what is this, what is the engine, what does the owner do to afford a car like this? My son says "we should go talk to them" as i approach both my son and i hear the girl say "you want to ride in the car, i want to ride on the owner". I introduced myself and answered their questions. A few days later my son, laying on the couch with me in the loft, my wife on the other couch, says out of the blue, "i think i know what she meant". I said who? He said "the girl at the car show". You do? What do you think she meant, of course i was thinking something completely innocent. He says mom...this hot girl wants to have sex with dad. That went over like a fart in church.

lol!!!!!!

[biggerandbetter]

I just got my GTM yesterday, and already it has drawn quite the crowd. I work at a Toyota dealership, and drove it here today and it looks quite different from the normal around here. I am used to people looking at my yellow C6 Corvette, but this is completely different. On my way in today, I noticed a lifted truck hauling tail up behind me and weaving lanes. He gets up next to me and all I can hear is "what the hell is that thing"?!? It has been quite fun so far in the past 24 hours. I cant wait ot see what else comes my way :-)

[The Stig]

Hi guys. It's been a while. Are there any new or recent stories that you would like to share that came as a result of owning your GTM?

Mike

[LCD Gauges]

I'll share some news:

Last month, my neighbour invited me to join an exotic car club. I took the half-finished GTM to a parking lot full of 120+ beautiful
machines. It was like Heaven on Earth for car lovers! So many awesome people to chat with and they made me feel very welcome.
Saturns Drives do some long haul cruises and fundraisers. Three day cross-border cruises are not uncommon.


In the current state, my car is no match for these works of art. The interior is on the short list to get upgraded next year;
the rollbar covers and upholstery especially! Once you peek inside the cockpit of an Aventador, or McLaren P1 you will
understand. I am looking forward to the day that I can drive in the massive convoys of exotics and start to enjoy the years
of turning wrenches on the GTM.

https://scontent.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xat1/t31.0-8/12022485_10154250545819148_2066492242199488500_o.j pg?efg=eyJpIjoidCJ9
https://scontent.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpt1/t31.0-8/12038712_10154250545889148_5594938820891693711_o.j pg?efg=eyJpIjoidCJ9

More photos here:
https://m.facebook.com/tino.desideri/albums/10154250544489148/

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=maznLEt7g5s
Saturns Drives Video
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Yr476y5Lps

[The Stig]

Wow... A year without an update. GTM's are cooler than that guys... :cool:

Mike

[Aceflo]

This thread is a great idea. I wish I had a story about driving my GTM, but it's not even close to that stage.

I will say, that my girlfriend, her father, and I took turns pulling an open trailer to TX from CA to pick up the unfinished 2012 Gen2 GTM that I was purchasing. We had to make the 4400 mile round trip in 3 days, and that was a non-stop drive that proved to test the physical limits of our bodies and sanity. We ended up pulling into Houston, TX 8 hours late, but with all things considered ...that was pretty close to being on time. I was excited about picking up the car, but fearful at the same time. I had no clue if the car was going to look like the pictures and be as good of a deal as I thought it was. As we pulled into the neighborhood, it seemed like the entire block was having a birthday party as both sides of the street were lined bumper to bumper with cars. My heart kinda dropped when we made the turn....Here we were in a big Dodge pickup pulling a long *** trailer and had to reach the driveway of the last house on the street. I was actually uncertain if I was going to have to go door-to-door telling people I need them to move their cars so that we could get through to pick up this GTM. With careful spotters as we squeezed down the street, we maneuvered enough to at least get the trailer pointed towards the driveway. People began getting curious about what we were doing, and a few of them moved their cars to give us more than the 1/2" of clearance needed to get the trailer lined up correctly. Mission 1 accomplished....get the trailer lined up.

The owner came out as we were attempting to get the trailer lined up and gave us his approval of the blocking (I mean parking) job that we did. He opened the garage door, and there it was ... the GTM was just as beautiful (or even more) than the pictures. I was a little bit euphoric and not thinking about the logistics of loading it until my girlfriends dad came over to me and said "holy hell ....that car is wide. You have a tape measurer?" It wasn't until that moment that I should have thought about whether the car was going to actually fit on the trailer we had. 2200 miles, 1 1/2 days, 3 days of missed work, and way too much junk food consumed. At that moment, my stomach was doing hula hoops and a felt a little weak in my legs. We grabbed the tape, measured between the fenders on the trailer, measured the width of the GTM, and was overcome with complete joy to know that we had two inches on both sides for clearance. Talk about relief ....wow.

Although it was a chore to load the thing up, we were successful and immediately turned around to make our way back to CA. The trip was painful physically, and it actually turned out to be a little mentally painful as well. I cant count the number of times that we almost ended up in accidents due to people attempting to get a look at the car. People were wanting to have conversations with me while driving 70 mph down the road. Whenever we stopped for gas, it was never a quick fill-up. Without exaggeration, I would come out of the service station and 4-10 people would be surrounding the trailer trying to check out the car. How do you politely tell people to move out of the way since we needed to leave, when they were super excited to check out the car? I had a guy say, "WHOA!!! Look at that engine in the car!" He was pointing and staring into the grill and hood cutouts. *Face Palm* For the rest of the trip, we attempted to strategically pick out remote gas stations where we were guaranteed not to run into too many people.

Everything else went well ...for the most part. The tie downs held the car well. The tape and plastic did not come loose at any point. And thankfully, non of the glass blew out as we were driving down the road. (it was only taped on as well). We had sunny and clear skies for the entire trip, until the last 40 minutes of our drive...where it commenced to downpour on a freak storm that hit our drought stricken state. All and all, it was an exciting beginning to my GTM acquisition, and I look forward to just handing out Factory Five Business cards when people start swarming the finished product.

57612

[Fraser D]

I was invited to bring my GTM along to an open house this past Saturday for a new shop that my tuner has set up.
The car was looking pretty crappy so I spent a long two days giving it a freshen-up to put in a showing.
A fresh coat of plastidip and the completion of a couple of outstanding projects and the car was ready to hit the road 30 minutes before I had to leave the house.
The drive to the event was nuts with folks jockeying in traffic to get a better view. I decided that it was safer to risk a speeding ticket than to get caught up in an accident.
It never ceases to amaze me how much attention this car gets, even a rough around the edges example such as mine. Cars that had more money spent on them in upgrades than I have spent on my entire car, were getting passed up while mine always had a crowd around it. Even more so than the TA2 car parked beside mine.
The highlight of the night was when the promo photographer that was there asked me to bring my car inside to do a photo shoot with the models. I reluctantly agreed,,,,,,,,,,,, Who am I kidding I dam near stalled the car I was so excited.
A crowd gathered just to hear the car start up.
I have not seen the photos yet but from what I saw during the shoot I may just have to hide those photos from my wife.
To top it all off the local TA2 team invited me out to practice with them at the local tracks while they dial in their new cars.
Here are some photos at the house just before I left and at the event as soon as I got there.

[Roger Reid]

Dave. Outstanding. Do you think "speeding to avoid an accident" will pass muster with the men in blue? You may have some interesting photo's for the 2017 calendar.:)

[Fraser D]

Dave. Outstanding. Do you think "speeding to avoid an accident" will pass muster with the men in blue? You may have some interesting photo's for the 2017 calendar.:)

Yes that could have been an interesting conversation with the law.....
Good point regarding the calendar. I will check on permissions with the photographer.

[LCD Gauges]

I can't say this is cool, but definitely different:

While going for spin this afternoon, a bird nearly got inside the car. As I was slowing to turn a sharp corner, it flew
part way into the passenger window and then back out pretty quick. ;)