Opinion On Updating Door Panels

[DCOP]

At the risk of ridicule I am looking to update my door panels to the later style, on my '70 mod RS look. I really don't want RS panels, although they would be correct for my current look. Can I use door panels, door pulls, arm rests, and pockets from say a 74 to early 80's without too much modification? Also is it possible to use later arm rests without the pockets? Opinions from those of you have done this would be appreciated.

[Shaun @ Tru6]

Risk?

[Gordo2]

Have you looked at the price difference between sticking with RS/RSA panels vs going to the newer style?

I went to RSA panels on my SC both for the looks (RSA is a much cleaner, down to business look) and the price. Nearly every part of my original door panels were shot (arm parts broken or warped, door panel warped, door pockets warped). When I started to look at replacing these parts I went into sticker shock ($$$) and started looking for other options.

I've been very happy with the RSA panels; I think they make the car look "cleaner" and feel "roomier".

Recommend comparing cost with consideration to what you are getting for your money (do people really use the door pockets and arm rests?).

Good luck, Gordo

[911pcars]

It depends on the amenities you prefer the later door panels to have, like space for maps, parking tickets, loose change and stuff under the flip up arm rest, etc.

Consider a plain RS-type door panel in the vinyl/leather material of your choice, but use only the early factory armrest/door pull without the typically-by-now rain-warped map and flip-out pockets. That's what I did, but only to have a convenient place to rest my arm while driving. Passengers need a similar hand (death) grip, otherwise they might use the dash, parking brake, driver's leg or gear shift lever as a life line grip during highly questionable vehicle maneuvers.

And we all know how long those borrowed Fiat-made plastic RS door handles last. The RSA-style grips might last a little longer.

Sherwood