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I just posted this question on another site and have not gotten an answer.
"Can someone give me a definition of just EXACTLY what a Pro Touring car is? I see the term tossed around but don't know where it came from and if there is a real definition."
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It depends on who you ask since there isn't anything written in stone on this subject.
You could say that Pro touring is the modern way of Hot rodding. We take a 40 year old car, throw in a modern drivetrain with a lot of power (some times to much) and make it handle better on the road. Pretty much the same as what the hot rodders did in the fifties.
Then you can go in to details. Some say that they have a PT-car just because it has a set of 18" wheels with low profile tires. I don't agree with this. It has to be the following:
1. Modernized drivetrain with power, not necessarily LS-type engines.
2. Heavy Duty brakes 13" discs or more in front. Discs in rear.
3. Because of the large discs you have to have large wheels.
4. Upgraded suspension and lower stance.
5. Modernized and comfortable interior, pretty much like a new car here. Air Condition, Good Audio and quiet inside.
6. Optional to this definition is the bling, the PT-trend has moved toward more bling in the recent years. Just like the street rodders.
Look at Charleys cars, the Mule and Jackass. That is true Pro touring cars without all the expensive bling parts. Who really needs hood hinges that cost $800.00?
And for those of you that don't already know it, I am a BAD boy. I have destroyed a true X77 Z/28 and turned it into a Pro Touring car. I have got flak for it over the years but I don't care. It is my car and we don't need one more over restored 69 Z/28 on the streets
My Pro Touring 1969 Z/28:
Jan