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My name is Scott Pregont. I live in Mechanicville, NY. My dream is to build the 65 Daytona Coupe-R. I will be retiring soon and now is the time but before jumping in with both feet I would like to see if I can even get into/out of one. I recently met Joel Hauser and had a ride in his roadster (Thanks Joel! The most fun I've had in years!) so I know I can get into/out of that but there is no roof! So with that said I'm looking for any coupes near Albany, NY that I try on for size.
Can't help you locally, that's for sure. My completed Gen 3 Coupe is way over here in SE Michigan. Curious if you have a reason for the R version. Not only is there a roof to contend with, compared to the Roadster you rode in, but the R chassis cuts the door opening way down. Unless you're building a dedicated track car, you may want to consider the regular version. It's incredibly strong and stiff in it's own right. The number one issue (and question) we get about ours is what it's like to get in and out of. We manage and it's not bad once you develop your technique. But, at least for us, an R version wouldn't be workable. And probably for a pretty significant number of others.
Depending on your size the gen III is much easier to navigate in and out of then the previous iterations.
As Paul said you get your technique down once you do it few times.
John
Paul, I have followed your build and have taken many notes. I completely understand the added issues with the "R". If I could handle getting in and out the added safety would be worth the additional $1000.00 IMO. I also think the "wow" factor of driving a "race" car is kind of cool but that's just me. At 68 with leukemia, I am not as limber as I would like so the "R" is more than likely out of the question but worth a try. Hell, the standard version may be out of the question. I am very close to retiring and want to pull the trigger soon. If I can get in and out it will be a coupe, if not it will be a roadster. In either case I hope we can become forum buddies as I already have a ton of questions for you.
John, I'm 5-8 approx 200 lbs. As I mentioned to Paul, getting in and out should not be to much of an issue except for the stiffness due to medication. I may have to take a day trip to FF if I can't find anything local.
Happy to share my experience and help however I can. I find it interesting that you cite safety as a reason for the R Coupe. Yet the standard Coupe has very beefy sides (including the doors) plus a full roll cage compared to a Roadster. If you're willing to accept a Roadster the standard Coupe is just as safe if not more. I guess I get the cool factor of the R version. But the standard version is no slouch. Looks more like the original race cars than an R with all the aero and stuff if that's what you're thinking. I don't have anything against the R. I just think it has its place and for a mainly street cruiser adds unneeded complexity for building and using. A local buddy built a challenge Roadster mainly for the cool factor. Doesn't plan to race it. He did a great job and it's an awesome build. But I was surprised at some of the differences and the various obstacles when trying to do stuff that was normal on the standard Roadster. Including, in that case, non-operating doors and climbing in and out. Obviously only possible without a top.Quote:
Originally Posted by Namrups
You are 100% right in what your saying and when I get over the excitement of finally making the decision to do this and start thinking logically I will come to my senses.Quote:
Originally Posted by edwardb
The 'R' version has some rollbar tubing obstructing the windshield view. Some states may not license the car for street use due to that. It may not be an issue where you live, but you might want to check to see if it is.
That was an item on my list of things to do. Not sure how NY would treat that.Quote:
Originally Posted by Skuzzy
unless you are young and light don't even think of a r model as I've had a roadster with a top for 22 years and no problemQuote:
Originally Posted by Namrups
getting in , now I have a coupe (gen 2 ) and can't believe how hard it is to get into . So the r model is just stupid
unless there is a reason for it
Decided against the "R". Going with the standard model. If I get over your way I would love to see your coupe.Quote:
Originally Posted by deerhunter