Dane's EF Futura - A Joint Effort:

Q: What do you do when you really want an XR for your first car but your family won't allow it? A: Go to the next best thing - a Futura with a capable and understated mix of mods! At least that's how it started as Dane & his Dad went looking for a car to co-purchase so Dane could learn in the vehicle that would eventually become his own. Finding an August '96 build Futura in Cardinal Red, the deal was done and the new wheels were driven home complete with 'Classic' rolling stock and go-fast pin stripes.

The rear spoiler was quickly acquired setting off the rear nicely with a stereo upgrade not far behind that including Sony 10 stacker and head unit, both top of the range at the time. With all that power pushing through the stock speakers it wasn't long before they started sounding a bit stressed so in went bigger Pioneer replacements in the parcel shelf and front doors. Sheep skin seat covers followed soon enough keeping Dane & his Dad nice and cool while warm in the winter as well - all while managing to match the original interior colours & not standing out like the proverbial dogs balls...

Giving the economy & power a bit of a boost a set of 1 5/8" Pacemaker extractors were installed along with a full 2 1/2" custom stainless steel exhaust, "giving it a much meaner sound - from a nice burble at idle, to a loud bark when revved. But somewhere in between is a bloody annoying drone - I guess that's the price you pay." The new exhaust note has brought mixed reactions from 'V8 like' from the owner of a said Ute, to "complaints from the boring half of the family" resulting in the addition of an extra muffler to help quieten the din from the back seat.

Lately, a more desirable stance has been achieved via the installation of Monroe GT gas shock absorbers and King Springs bringing the whole show 1.5" closer to mother earth. While the difference may not be great in actual numbers, the overall effect on the looks and presence of the vehicle has been astounding to where Dane has had VL loving friends offering to buy the near stock EF. But Dane isn't finished with it yet - with darker tint, a sub with appropriate amp and 16" wheels all on the drawing board once cash flow improves to sufficient levels - not bad for a first car.

So now Dane gets to practice his driving skills in his pride and joy - and with no intent of holding back he's already made it to central NSW, Snowy Mountains during the snow season, Broome (yes - that Broome - about 2200km north of Perth!) and Perth itself. It seems Dane will have plenty of experience when it comes time for ordering the Big Ticket - ain't that just what the Doctor ordered?