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Panoz might not be the most common name uttered in automotive circles nowadays, but for those who appreciate the brand’s unique contributions to sports cars, a rare opportunity has arisen. A 1997 Panoz AIV Roadster with significant mileage is seeking a new owner to continue its legacy on the road.
Acquired on June 1, 2021, by Allan Schrag, this rare 1997 Panoz has been enjoyed rather than hidden away. “I have used it as an occasional Sunday driver,” Schrag commented to The Drive. The car has had only three owners and has lived in Phoenix, Arizona, Houston, Texas, and currently Wichita, Kansas. It has been kept in climates that have helped keep it free from rust, as evidenced by the photos on the Facebook Marketplace listing, and is in remarkable condition for a vehicle with 134,000 miles on the odometer.
Allan Schrag
The Panoz AIV Roadster stands out with its eye-catching design and superior driving experience, rivaling the likes of the Plymouth Prowler. Updated in 1996, the Roadster features an aluminum chassis, adding the “AIV” (Aluminum Intensive Vehicle) moniker, and swapped its original 4.9-liter Mustang V8 for a 4.6-liter V8 from the 1996 Mustang SVT Cobra, producing 305 horsepower. This all comes together with a five-speed manual gearbox and rear-wheel drive.
With just 176 AIV Roadsters ever sold, the vehicle comes with an air of exclusivity and the tricky task of sourcing parts when needed. Schrag has fortunately not had to endure high maintenance costs, but it’s worth noting the car’s age and mileage that could lead to future repairs. While Mustang engine parts are readily available, the bespoke parts unique to the Panoz may be more challenging to obtain.
Listed at $25,500, this Panoz AIV Roadster is offered significantly below the average $44,000 valuation from Classic.com. Its price reflects the car’s well-traveled life, but for those who believe in driving their sports cars rather than storing them, this Roadster may present the perfect investment. It’s a distilled driving machine with the heart of a Mustang and the size of a modern compact car, a formula that’s sure to entice enthusiasts.
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FAQs About the Panoz AIV Roadster
How many Panoz AIV Roadsters were made?
Only 176 of these specialty vehicles were ever made, making each one relatively rare and special.
What engine is in the Panoz AIV Roadster?
The AIV Roadster is equipped with a 4.6-liter V8 engine from the 1996 Mustang SVT Cobra, delivering 305 horsepower.
What might make maintenance on this vehicle challenging?
Finding parts unique to the Panoz AIV Roadster might be difficult due to its rarity, although the Mustang-based engine should alleviate some parts sourcing challenges.
What is the asking price for this 1997 Panoz AIV Roadster?
The asking price for this particular Roadster is $25,500, which is lower than the average market price.
Is this vehicle best for collectors or drivers?
While it would appeal to both, the previous owner’s regular use suggests that it is a driver’s car, welcoming those who wish to experience its capabilities on the road.
Conclusion
In summary, this 1997 Panoz AIV Roadster with 134,000 miles is a testament to the thrilling driving experience offered by Panoz. While it might be a rare find in today’s market, the opportunity to own and drive such a vehicle is an appealing proposition for any automotive enthusiast. Understanding the challenges and charm of a high-mileage, limited-production sports car is crucial when considering this unique piece of American automotive history.
