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| CARE | Concept | Memorabilia | Photos | Facts | | Links | Events | Guestbook | Homepage | Site Map | |
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2001 Sport Roadster Concept |
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| Photos by Don Holton from ITC 2002 Convention |
| Presented at the Detroit Auto show January 8, 2001. Looks like it took a back seat to the introduction of the production colors for the coming 2002 cars as little mention of this concept auto has been made in the magazines. I saw more activity on ebay over the press kits but when the press kits for the 2002 models started appearing, interest seemed to wane on this auto. Suspect that Ford would have had more interest in the Sport Roadster if the model had come out later in the year. After all, everyone was waiting for the production introductions. The press kits for this model are very striking - a black portfolio with a rose cutout that showcased the Red concept underneath. For more pictures, check the links pageand some of the magazines listed on the 2001 magazine page. |
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From a viewers stand point, the only thing new on the Sport Roadster Concept is the molded tonneau covering the area behind the seats, making this car resemble the 62/63 Sport Roadster convertible. Really would like to see this tonneau cover available on the cars. I can envision the reduction of air movement between the bucket seats with this cover in place. Until I've been a passenger of this auto, won't be able to compare the wind problems. I will say this, though, having a Chrysler LeBaron convertible and also a Chrysler TC by Maserati, along with our "little 'bird" - the Chrysler LeBaron comes out tops for low wind in the front seats. The TC and the Little T-bird are about the same - heavy wind. It will be nice if the NEW Thunderbird follows the LeBaron or is even better. The added Tonneau cover should make it even more pleasant to ride around in. On my LeBaron, I have to lift the tape holder cover/armrest to reduce wind whipping around from behind the seats. |
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With the cover in place, I can also envision being able to pack things on the shelf behind the seats with less worry about those items "flying" out the back. Now, I wonder how useable the softtop will be with the tonneau in place ;) The interior color must also be mentioned. The first year production cars all have black or 2-tone color and black. Either way, that is a HOT interior when you have the top down, particularly when you park it for any length of time in the sun. Be sure to wear long pants when you ride around in the 2002 car or take some towels along with you to lay on the seats as you will not be able to sit down on the seats while wearing shorts, after parking in the sun - talk about a major burn factor. That goes for your arms, too. Now, this sport roadster model has an ALL WHITE interior - my preference for comfort as that is not near as flesh searing as the black interior. A cloth seat is even better when it gets right down to it. |
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As an added note, the one magazine I've seen this model pictured in, had the car labeled as a "Modern Muscle" |
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Update on magazines: Motor Trend ran a survey and the Sport Roadster was voted the concept that voters most wanted to see on the road. |
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Update - a radio control model became available in October 2001 - check the diecast page for more information. |
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