Basics on Building and Buying a Replica Cobra
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- Опубликовано: 25 ноя 2024
- Basic overview of what you need to consider when purchasing a Cobra kit, or buying a done replica Cobra.
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Shelby Continuation Cobras
www.shelby.com...
www.shelby.com...
www.shelby.com...
www.shelby.com...
ERA Cobra kits
www.erareplicas...
Factory Five kits
www.factoryfiv...
Superformance Cobras
www.superforma...
Backdraft Cobras
www.backdraftr...
Kirkham Cobras
www.kirkhammot...
Emerson Cobras
www.emersoncob...
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I would like to add some clarity regarding Factor Five Racing's body style. While it is true that the Mk1 through Mk3 cars had what many people referred to as a "perky butt," that changed with the introduction of the Mk4. Its body replicates the shape of CSX3035 which was Dick Smith's race car. The body was scanned in order to create a template that was used for creating new body molds. In addition, because of the design and mold tolerance improvements plus the new gel-coat finish, the Mk4 body requires 50% less bodywork prior to paint than the Mk3.
Went cross country in an AC - Ace with big straight 6. We took a seat out and could sit on floor for length & sleeping bag for padding. Looked like the 289 street Cobra. It was a conversation starter at gas stations. Seems the tubular steel frame was the magic part If various parts could bolt to that you could have something looking part Cobra, part Ariel Atom. Then a body of aluminum or whatever.. that car was simple, like doors were curved aluminum & a little latch. Nice memory & boy could it pass other cars.
Factory Five racing has the best suspension of any replica manufacture. I have built 3 of them. The latest one has 800 HP. Solid as a rock and rides like it is on rails. Biggest bang of the buck. Their service is the best.
Sorry but I disagree they have the best suspension of any replica. There are multiple that have better. I agree they are the best bang for the buck, but that comes at a price. I'm not impressed with their roadster design, but that's just my opinion. I also agree their customer service is great! Glad to hear you have had success with them.
@@LifeatSpeed Sorry you would be wrong, FFR has the strongest most rigid frame of any cobra's. You won't see many Superformances on the track, and Backdraft has a separate line for their race series cars.
@@richardschipper5989 Hands down! Its a fact...
Great video. My only challenge would be the negative against the FFR. Make no mistake, I consider Backdraft the best, then FFR. FFR got the true body lines and stance closer than anyone in my opinion. And you get out what you put in, the sky is the limit. Anyone building one to match spec is wasting their time. You will not find a W or R coded FE, so why go any further. The best combo is hands down the Coyote, T5, and Brembos with either a Jag rear or Aftermarket quick-change. Build it to drive, not sit on your garage and brag about.
Totally agreed
Coyote puts out > 400 ft/lbs of torque, but a t5 is only rated for 305ft/lb
@@cameronpoole174 you can use T56 Magnum or TKX 5 or TKO 5
I own a Factory Five, like most have sad, it's what you put into it. ERA , excellent. Superformance too. Backdraft, is a nice car but, the sloping nose is not even close to original. 427, not the best to drive but, if you want bragging rights then go for it. Bottom line, it's whatever YOU like and that is ALL that matters.
Nice video.
Compare the frame that FFR provides with their Cobra's versus others like say the Backdraft. There really is no comparison to FFR's 4" tubes. The 'perky butt' of the FFR MKIII was addressed in the MKIV some years ago. If you are attempting to guide someone's purchase, you should really provide more details of specific likes and dislikes.
Another option is a Factory Five assembled by a *professional builder.* There are several of them that have built easily over 100 each. The build quality will meet - or even exceed Backdraft or Superfomance, and it can be made to your exact specs. But of course, even though these guys have legitimate businesses, it can still be seen as “built by some guy in a garage” and some people would feel more comfortable buying a complete car from dealership.
yes!
I believe he was refering to the older factory five kits that combined a mustang and a cobra kit. The kits they sell now are different.
Cobras in all their different iterations are magnificent . Whether it's a 427 BB with an IRS, or like mine, a 351 W/ 9 inch, they're all a lot of fun. For those who've never owned or driven one, the best way I can describe them to you is that they "Want to kill you" every moment you're driving it. Whenever you have a ridiculously short wheelbase car, with a lot of power, and typically nowhere near enough brakes, it's a thrill show.
I would agree they can be a handful
Excellent video and thank you for the kind words on ERA! I'm the proud owner of ERA 761 which is an absolute dialed in replica that is very authentic to the original CSX cars from the 60's. I purchased my car used so it was already completed by the previous owner/ builder and I only wanted a 428FE with a 4 speed Top Loader and fortunately that's what I found. The biggest issue on ERA is the wait time to receive either a kit or factory completed car. The wait times right now are somewhere in the 2 to 3 year time frame. Whatever brand you choose...hang on and enjoy the ride!
Thank you for the mind words and inout into the ERA backlog. Congrats on having an amazing Cobra!
I had been looking at Cobras for the last 2-3 years pretty heavily. Came down to Superformance and a Backdraft for the final two that I was going to choose from. My budget was around 50-65k so I was looking for the best bang for my buck essentially. I've ridden in Backdrafts, Superformance, FFR's and Shell Valley's ranging from 289's to supercharged LS3's.
London, OH has one of the largest Cobra meets in the world so you get to critique multiple Cobra builds all at one time. You see some that are clearly "home-builds" and others that are professionally done. Unfortunately this year with the Rona that show got cancelled.
At the end of the day I went with a Backdraft RT3 with a Roush 427R in it. The build quality is phenomenal IMO. The Backdrafts are ~4" wider and 2" longer than the originals but me being 6' tall I fit in it perfectly fine. The newer RT4's have even more room and a dropped footbox for even taller drivers. To me they are a modern take on the Cobra heritage. Some people may not like that for whatever reason but what it ends up being is what you like that matters.
Cobras of all types come from the same blood-line. Shelby would get in all different types of builds and still sign his name on the dash no matter what because ultimately they're all his babies. Lots of people need to be reminded of that.
Thanks for the information! Glad you got a cobra you love!
Take a good look at unique motors in Gadsden al
Thanks, I'll check them out!
A Backdraft RT3 with a Roush 427R for $50-65K is a tire-smoking deal!
For sure!
THANK YOU for the insight because looking into a Cobra toy! Currently have a '01 Pontiac Firehawk F1 toy. Great resource and you're a very knowledgeable man!!!
Thanks for the feedback! I'm glad my video helped you! That '01 Firehawk is a sweet ride!
Weird about the talk on Factory Five bodies when the Backdraft's are the most ridiculous of the bodies (they're way too... bodacious) and often come with LED headlights and odd modern wheels. Should've probably mentioned how FFR is also one of the only companies to not use a ladder chassis. They're certainly a budget car, but you seem to focus too much on how they're able to be the cheapest while forgetting you can build them properly too. Biggest takeaway should be that you can build one cheaply and it will show, or put a decent amount into one (50k should be a good starting spot) and it will make a big difference, no matter the make.
If I were to build one, I would take the modern path, make a nice cruiser.
Fellow Vegas resident! I prefer the Daytona. Planning on getting the complete FFR kit soon w/ a 427 and Polished Borla EFI Stack. Superformance and Backdraft are way out of my budget. I'm seeing 50% increase in value for a completed Daytona on a few classic car sites if done right. After the blood sweat and tears of putting one together, I probably wouldn't sell my car though.
That sounds like a solid plan! The stacked injection looks amazing!
I own an ERA 427 cobra.
It has a 428 FE engine and top loader trans with the upgraded jag rear end.
At car shows I receive the best compliments because I am always asked if it is a real cobra.
For me; it is the best, most accurate replica for your money.
Basic 427 and trans is 21g currently
If you are thinking about trying to pass off a kit car as an original, you're pretty well screwed up in the head in the first place, but If you want to build a kit car that you can be proud of, then do it. spending more money just to have an "authentic" car, well, it's your money, do what ever you want with it.
EXCELLENT OVERVIEW OF SHELBY COBRA OPTIONS ! GREAT JOB VERY INFORMATIVE !
Thank you!
Love my contemporary cobra
I would 100% get a kit to build for the experience and I could truly say its mine.
Really nice objective review of kits! I like how you give the range of the looks/quality.
I do agree about FFR. I’ve been a long time fan of theirs and their body always looks “off” and has that “high butt” look. Dave Smith (President of FFR) actually said something about that during a live stream and said something about there was a mold issue or something, I forget exactly. But a budget Cobra its great. I think some of the body issues have been fixed with their Mk 4 kit but you can still tell it’s an FFR. The body looks too small for the chassis to a small degree. But I do like their kits as they are more in my budget.
One thing about recommending Daytona kits is a potential buyer of a Daytona has to see if they can easily get in and out of one. I tried getting in and out of a FFR Daytona and it was not that easy especially if you are on the huskier side.
Again, thanks for the nice review!
PS- I like your ‘72 Challenger Rallye. I have one to. Google “Super Blue 72” and you’ll see my car.
Thank you for the feedback!
I have a B&B cobra, I am 6' 4" but it was dropped floor pan and I felt fine in it.
Thank you more than you can imagine. I nearly spent $71,500 on a factory five kit. The car has a 427 Rousch and is in amazing condition. But I will buy a Superformance instead.
Oh wow! That may be the most expensive Factory Five kit I have heard of! Those engines are over $20k, but still, definitely not worth the premium. The Superformance will do better at holding value over the Factory Five.
The most informative cobra video out there
Thank you!🙏
I think this is a fair evaluation of what is available out there. However, knowing that the financial aspect typically plays a huge part in the decision for the vast majority of potential buyers, I think it's also fair to say that the price options across the landscape is not linear... once you get out of the "Factory Five" world, the cost curve rapidly goes up.... way up. Speaking from experience, if you're in the $25K-$50K price club, which is essentially the vast majority of wanna-be-a-Cobra-owner crowd, then you'll be a Factory Five customer... generally speaking.
This is very true.
Veteran...all I have is a dream...small block Ford , auto 3 speed Cobra. Thanx ,keep up the good vidios, I'll keep up my dreams. RAIRNT AIR FORCE AREO REPAIR, ENGLAND GERMANY KOREA PHILOPINES
RAIRN'T, RAIR WORD THAT IS NOT A WORD, CODE FOR MECHANICS THAT WHERE THERE.
With the value of Fox going thru the roof, I would think twice about cannibalizing one to build a kit Cobra.
Like your commentary, but understand that there are those of us who might want the Cobra "experience " but don't have 80, 90, 100K plus to shell out for the continuation or "exact" replicas. Other than dropping an LS into it, (sacrilege) I'm good with an "almost ", the more of us getting into the hobby, the better!
great video man, i titally agree that the continuation is the best way, but mega interested to hear about all the kits available
Thanks! I recently came across a blog that has all cobra manufacturers around the world and it is quite the list! I'll try and post it here.
I love them all, and maybe authentic is your goal, but place a Factory Five frame next to a real cobra or any replica and it’s by far the best performance wise. I’m building their Daytona Coupe replica right now and the modern space frame is like a damn NASCAR. Also love the 2015 Mustang IRS option.
How's your Daytona coupe build going so far? Any unexpected challenges? What engine and transmission are you using?
@@LifeatSpeed it’s going great, not as far a long as I could be but with COVID it’s understandable that some parts are going to be late. I’m towards the beginning of the build so besides waiting on some parts and having to strategically move ahead in the build manual for things I can get done while waiting it’s been smooth.
I’m using a Gen 2 Coyote with the accompanying MT82. From what I can see the bodywork will be the lions share of the work and complications. Not sure if I’d call it complications though, just trimming and leveling as you’d expect working on fiberglass. the body is nice piece and thick.
So far I’m really impressed with the quality.
Should be an awesome car when finished. Hard to beat the Coyote in these builds. Body work always seems to be the area that needs the most attention on just about every project. Good luck on your project!
Thanks! This is a very informative video.
Through the 80’s and into the early 2000’s I was a hard core Ford guy. Now, I’m just a old dude with a C6 convertible, but those Cobras still look gorgeous! You’ve shined a light on the difference between some of the brands of Cobras. I see them on Friday cruise nites, but not often side by side and never any originals to compare the knock offs to. Keep up the great work!
I really enjoyed your great overview. One great car if you can find one is the Contemporary. The car was an exact copy of the original right down to the round tube chassis. Another great car is the Unique built in Alabama and they are still in business. You mentioned at the end a more modern independent rear suspension. The original cars had independent jag rears with coil springs and spax shocks and most had inboard disc brakes.
I'm glad you enjoyed the video and thank you for the feedback! This is great information.
Hi Les.
You add some good input. But the Contemporary has Jaguar suspension, so the chassis (although having the 4" main tubes) is different to an original Cobra once you move out from the main rails.
You are absolutely correct about original cars having independent suspension (all around), but it was not Jaguar. The rear brakes were all outboard on the 289 and 427 cars. The 289s ran transverse leaf springs and the 427 had coil overs all around. The differential was a Salisbury unit (who also supplied Jaguar) but the case and its mounting points were different to the Jaguar item. ;-)
Thanks David. I always like learning more about cobras. When I was a kid no one wanted one as they were so rough no windows no tops. I remember one at my ford dealership and it was 6K when you could buy a corvette for about $3700.00.
@@CobraDave427 thanks for the additional information!
ERA is the best for builders. Most accurate, and they offer a slab side. Downside: last I checked the wait list os over two years.
The #1 reason I won't pull the trigger on a Factory Five is there is no knock-off wheel option for their IRS. I cannot visually get past the nut covers for bolt-on wheels. You can get a solid axle shortened for knock-offs, but a Cobra should have IRS IMO.
I know opinions and tastes vary, but there are some weird Franken-Cobras out there that make me shake my head. Mostly FFR's.
It's so cheap and easypeasy to modify the axels though?? Everyone does it.
@@advicemaster1365 Asolid axel, yes, not IRS. IMO, a Cobra replica should have IRS.
CSX would be a great place to park some cash. They'll always be worth what you pay --if not more. Scrounge around BaT. A lot go up on there and never really get the bids they deserve. May catch a seller with a lower reserve if you persistent/lucky. But also, my god, the slab-side ERAs are gushingly beautiful. Oof. Mmmm
Definitely! Of all the brands the Continuation cars definitely hold their value the best.
Well spoken,useful information...
Thank you!
I wouldn't drive it like a maniac. A Super-performance for me.
Great advice, and informative. I only wish you had some input on the BRM Boss Cobra.
The body and overall quality seems very good, and a built 302 is my choice over the heavier and somewhat “cramped” 427.
Thanks for posting.
I wasn't aware of the BRM Boss Cobra. I will check them out! As for the weight aluminum 427 engines are available now!
@@LifeatSpeed They are no longer in production, but apparently the owner is still active. Their reputation is all good with the Canadian Cobra fans. Fit and finish and small details. His hood support is a stellar example.
Good to know! Thanks!
man what a great video; this guy is good.
Thank you so much🙏
Thank you!
So informative - thank you
My pleasure!
Great video, thank you!
You're welcome! Glad you liked it
Excellent video, being 6' 5" tall definitely would have to look for that 1 company he spoke about that stretched them out for taller people.
www.emersoncobra.com/
@@LifeatSpeed Thank you so much for this link. If I'm ever in a position this will probably be the company I go with.
You're welcome! Good luck on reqching your goal!
ERA can modify the footbox and seat to fit you,
Yes I want one
beautiful challenger
Thank you! It's my pride and joy
I’m definitely interested in a used Superformance kit 🤘🏻 I’m on their email list & have researched a lot of companies . i like that Superformance the best because they were actually authorized by Shelby and seem to be accepted by the community . I have a lot of toys already but it’s definitely on my bucket list.
Superformance makes an awesome product! You really can't go wrong with one of their cars.
Superformance is not a "kit"; Factory Five makes kits.
I always thought that I would make the car look like a very bad ass 427 Cobra on the outside, but run the drivetrain of the ZL-1 Camaro with the 10 speed auto and an IRS rear. This way I would have a car that is very drivable day to day but could lay down the law if needed, scary fast and livable. Plus I would have the advantage of an all aluminum motor, 650 HP and I would run a rear gear ratio of around 3:06 just like the Camaro. I understand that it's not all ford, but they will ever know because I will never show it to them, they will only see it drive past.
Check out Absoulte Pace made in Queensland Australia aluminium chassis inboard fulcrum suspension optional aluminium body
Sounds like an interesting car. I will check them out thanks!
The current Factory Five body was molded off of Dick Smiths #189 and one other original cobra. How much more authentic do you want? Your comments are off a bit.
Great video!
Thank you!
Thanks for the Plug!
You're welcome! You make incredible cars and make the possibility of owning a Cobra a reality for those that cannot fit in other manufacturers Cobras.
I'm 6' - 2" would that be more fitting of an Emerson version?
I would think so. I'm 6 foot and it's tight for me in an original 427 S/C
@@LifeatSpeed
Thanks, I'll check 'em out.
@@Michiganborn1969 We could make you real comfortable at that height. emersoncobra.com
The FFR Mk4 for the past 4ish years does not have the "high butt" so i'm not sure how up to date Life at Speed is on FFR...their molds are VERY nice and the quality is such that you could drive it around in the the red gel coat fiberglass. The new mold is casted from an original cobra that a close friend of Dave Smith (FFR owner) owned and raced....not sure how much more exact you can get than that! Life at speed obviously hasn't seen their "new" Mk4 (its been out for some time)...I would suggest FFR over ERA any day...especially just looking at the frame, FFR is leaps ahead. Even Superformance has IMO a "inferior" frame compared to FFR, unless you upgrade to the "original style" Lastly, the FFR family and the support is second to none and they have been making Cobra kits longer than most. Just look at the difference with their websites & sponsors lol....FFR = 21st century....ERA....1990
I'm very familiar with what FFR has been doing. I see them every year at SEMA, and I stand by my position. They make a good economical product, but I wouldn't own one of their roadsters. I love their Daytona Coupe, but still on the fence about building one due to the extra work required from what I've seen from people who have actually built them. If you're happy with FFR then great. But for me I'll put my money with other companies.
@@LifeatSpeed Totally respect your opinion, but you missed some facts (Body especially) on their product that are simply not true. Just wanted to point that out to others ;)
well u should at least test and drive the 3 big names
Backdraft
Factory 5
Superperformance ... for me this is the best one just it feels most round as a package but therefore also a bit expensive
Agreed and that is something I am working on. I have a friend with original 427 S/C Cobras that I can use as the benchmark to compare against.
Which kit has the best driving dynamics. I drove a factory five and the handling sucked compared to my miata
great stuff right here
Thank you
Thank you
You're welcome!
Great video! Subscribed!
Thank you!
I never sat in a Cobra. I have a Sunbeam and fit fine in it. I'm 6'3
I've never sat in a Sunbeam, so I can't compare, but I am 6' and it was snug in a factory 427 S/C for me.
Plan was to make a Alpine into a Tiger but more cost to that than expected.
Poor man's Cobra was the plan.
@@justinbgraf7565 yeah the projects always end up costing more. Would be a cool swap though!
Hi I live across the pond in Ireland,The best maker on this side i guess is a DAX, I bought PILGRIM SUMO COBRA REPLICA which is second to the dax in 2007,for about $10k or £8k.It was road legal and drove well but i have done a lot of work since.We are inclined to use what we call a doner car.mine is based on a Ford Granada mk2 1979.with range rover V8 and 5 speed rover trans,You need to tell the supplier what your doner car is so they can build the chassie to match the doner car parts. some are V6,s and even a 2.0 straight four eeewh,poor choice .you can,t beat a V8 side pipe sound track,my wish would be an ls1 or 2 motor.any idea on cost of crate motor? great vid by the way.
Thank you for this information! I had no idea. As far as crate motors go GM does offer a variety of LS based crate engines that range in price depending on completeness and horsepower from around $5,000 USD up to around $30,000 USD. Not sure what all is involved in getting them shipped across the Atlantic. Not sure what your requirements are over there, but another option would be a used LS engine. The up side is they can be much cheaper, the downside though is they are used and condition may not be guaranteed.
@@LifeatSpeed Thankyou so much for the information. I will certainly look into a motor. Might look used and rebuild. Very interesting information Thankyou.
@@tarsneyisleestrelas4659 you're welcome. Not sure if you have any GM dealerships in your area, but if you do, they might be able to order a crate engine for you, which would probably be the easiest, least painful way to go. Unfortunately it will also probably be one of the more expensive routes to go.
Great video but I have a Factory5 65 SC 427 replica and the body looks spot on to the original so it's a great choice in my opinion !
Great Video Awesome info 🤙
thank you!
Great video. Do you mind if I share this on our new channel which is for fans of the Shelby Cobra? I will credit you in the description and you can ask for the video to be removed at any time.
Thank you! If you want to add my video to one of your playlists feel free! I just subscribed to your channel! Good luck on building your channel!
Clear this up for me, @12:10 What original AC Shelby Cobra had a LIVE axle in the rear? Then go ahead & admit it. You really want one of those budget Factory Five/Donor Mustang cars.
It is my dream car❤
CCX-2-2500 Contemporary is my new car.
Recently purchased a 1967 Cobra kit car and am looking for someone who can finish putting it together. I’m located in Gig Harbor, WA. The car is about 75% finished.
Did you ever find anyone?
@@IMS_West
Never found a single business or person. The best thing I can say about this search is now I know where NOT to look.
I want a backdraft cobra
I guess, just for me, if I were looking for a high performance car I would get a 'vette or mustang. If I were to go for a replica I would want to do as much of it for myself as I could, so the Factory Five sounds like the best option for me.
Yes in that situation a Factory Five or ERA kit would be your best option.
FF cars. Bult two. Parts dont line up. Panels have huge gaps. What looks good on paper doesn't fit together during the build. Almost every single part that I attached to the next part had to be ground down, redrilled, heated and bent. I had to cut lots of stuff apart and reweld it. The whole front clip is supposed to be supported by the little screws in the blinkers via brackets that dont line up. Its a very sloppy kit. But they do a ton of advertising and a lot of fancy footwork when it comes to describing their product you can get it to work but work is what you should be prepared to do and you will get frustrated
Wich one is the best...FFR or Superformance?
Depends on your definition of best. Cost effective then FFR. Closer to looking like an original Cobra, then Superformance.
Have you heard of Jack Kube of North American Fiberglass? He was the head of that company that mfg replica cobras back in the 80s. Anyways I seen one of his cars listed for sale at a decent price. Im not sure of the build quality though?
No unfortunately I have not heard of him or that company.
@@LifeatSpeed You're kidding
@@bobdavis3389 not at all. There are way too many Cobra kit car companies out there to keep track of and during the 80's I wasn't even in grade school
Curious what you think of the Hurricane Cobras. I plan on building one soon and was probably going to go with FFR but then heard of Hurricane and they carry the CSXxxxx numbering scheme. Supposed to be closer to the original Cobra.
I'm just learning of Hurricane as well, but like what I am seeing. They seem to offer a quality and accurate alpearing replica cobra. Now as far as CSX numbers only Shelby America issues those. If other manufacturers are assigning CSX numbers they are probably running the risk of legal action from Shelby.
I'm liking what I see with the Hurricane as well. Think I'll do a visit in the spring and see what they are all about. They don't do the marketing like ffr which makes them unknown to many builders looking at options. The benefit of ffr is the build forums and getting ideas / advice from other fellow builders.
Can I fit a s500 merc drive train in a cobra
That I don't know, but it would dependent on which Cobra kit you have as well since they come in various sizes
What'S your take on a Unique MFG. cobras ?
I'll have to look into them.
@@LifeatSpeed Let us know your opinion . Unique has been in business for a long time .One of the oldest in the business .
Will do!
@@LifeatSpeed Still Waiting on your opinion of the Unique Motorcars Cobra . ??
Thanks for the reminder. Things have been crazy and I haven't had a chance to dig into them yet.
Uhh, the FF mark lll is claimed to be and highly accurate copy of # ????? Of a 65 289.
My personal take: I'm building a kit car that I should be able drive close to its limits without killing myself. It's basically a Miata. To drive a Cobra close to its limits requires a driver vastly more skilled and experienced than I am. I suspect lots of people driving Cobras are even less skilled and experienced than I am. Their choice, sure. But I don't get it.
That's why I want a 250 hp 289.
That's enough in a 2200 lb car
Oddly enough, I notice that you have the car most likely to leak oil parked directly above your most expensive car....and once I noticed that it was all I could think about lol. Good info though!
Lol I have trip trays in place just in case. Glad you liked the video!
Awesome video! I believe the backdraft cars have a wheelbase that's 2" longer that the standard cobra. Wonder if there were a video with the big 3 (FFR, Backdraft, and SF) side by side so we can get a glimpse as to the different profiles and lines each one has
Thanks! Good to know about the backdraft length. I haven't seen a video of them sidr by side. Maybe it's something I could work on for a future video.
@@LifeatSpeed are cobra meets usually mixed in terms of kit supplier? Would be a great opportunity to ask a few guys about their build and pull em side by side. Personally I'm stuck between getting my hands dirty with an FFR or finding a used SC MK3 (or even a GT40 but that's a whole other monster)
It varies, some are and some arent. If you have experience building cars building an FFR can be a lot of fun. But they are some of the easiest to tell they kit cars, require a lot of body work and they rely heavily on fox body Mustang parts. The SP cars are awesome cars and for me if I didn't want a Shelby Continuation car I would chose either a SP or aluminum body car from Kirkham.
@@dariocarrasco7936 Go to the London , Ohio cobra show . A lot of vendors there .
@@bobdavis3389 gotta google it and make my way up there. Is COVID impacting it to your knowledge?
Do you think Kirkham, Superformance, and Factory Five would lend you one to put next to each other? ;-)
Unfortunately my channel isn't large enough yet to get that kind of access. Maybe one day
Why is the Backdraft so expensive ? It doesn't even have the true 90" wheelbase .
Backdraft doesn't market themselves as a perfect replica, they are priced based on what they have engineered/designed into the car.
@@LifeatSpeed I want a replica that is as close to the real thing as possible .Wheelbase , length and width of body measurements , are very important to me . I own a Unique Mfg. , Gadsden , Alabama , replica . I'd say that for the money , it is pretty accurate ,. I'd love to own a Superformance but cannot spend that kind of money . Thanks
Where can i just buy the car instead of building it???, help anyone???
Depends on what you're looking for and your budget. Companies like Superformance, Backdraft, Shelby America and Emerson all offer complete cars.
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what engine is that at 2:40
That's a new 5.0L coyote engine
Life at Speed awesome, thank you! And thanks for the fast reply
You're welcome! Glad I could help.
I have a moral dilemma when it comes to kit car Cobras. It has always been a dream to own a Cobra but I feel like kit cars take away the specialty/uniqueness/ rarity of if. It’s like a nice Rolex in a sense. Fake and replica Rolex’s take away from the original.
I will never be able to own a original cobra so a kit is the only viable option but I just have a hard time mentally being ok with it. Maybe getting a license plate that says “kitcar” would easy my mind a bit.
I hear ya! That's why I'll end up with a continuation cobra. Still authorized by Shelby, but a fraction of the price of an original.
Any non-licensed replica has to have different body panels to avoid litigation.
Not true, Factory five already fought Shelby in 2000 and 2010 and won because Shelby couldn’t prove trade dress on the design. Only thing that stuck was they can’t use the name “Cobra”.
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Both Superformance and Backdraft are eye-candy rollers from South Africa with alarmingly frail frames. The Backdraft wheelbase is lengthened 2". The ERA is an old-school Cobra from the 80s. The frame, made of rectangular section, is extremely beefy and it utilizes an entire Jaguar rearend. It is the heaviest of all Cobras. Kirkham is by far the best Cobra made, even better than Shelby Continuation. Both are 6 figures cars.
An authentic cobra has a ladder frame made of two 4" diameter round tubing set ~24" apart (double check 24") and a 90" wheelbase. Any other configuration, you are driving some other car with a Cobra body. Which brings us to Factory Five, it has a proper round section ladder frame and an authentic body. The affordable American made FFR Mk4 kit is an excellent choice. If you have the money, get a Kirkham or Shelby Continuation, otherwise build a non-donor Factory Five MK4 with IRS. Choice of engine and transmission is up to you.
The first 15 sec or so is a Cobra blowing tires off. What do you know about that car?
That was a Superformance car during the SEMA shoe in Vegas. They were giving rides to attendees all week of the show
I am buying a used for 40K and call it a day.
Kirkham cobras are the only repro cobras to get.dead on te original.aluminum body,and same chaSsis suzpension as original. Forget facktory5 and all those guys.KIRKHAM..
You sound like you’ve done your homework and know your way around a car. So according to you, how difficult do you think it’d be for a laymen with no experience building cars to build a budget cobra? I hear wildly different ends of the spectrum...some saying that practically anyone can do it all the way to only guys with extensive experience working on cars should attempt it. I have basic tools...but nothing specialty in regards to automotive and only the most basic of experience with vehicles (changing oil, replacing plugs, brakes...just your typical maintenance).
So it can be done, but there are things you'll probably end up sending out like paint and body work which will get expensive in a hurry, because most kits require a decent amount of bodywork and it's not out of line for a quality bodyshop to charge $15k-$20k or more to complete the body work and paint. Also expect to need to buy tools along the way. Unfortunately kit cars are never as easy as they may seem. There are always hidden costs and hurdles. Building a kit car takes a lot of time and patience as does any car build. If you haven't watched it yet, I recommend you check out my video on whether or not a restoration is for you, it helps outline things you need to take into account when deciding if you want to undertake such a large project.
Kyle, Check out Factory Five...they are #1 for someone who wants to build a high quality car in their budget. They also have the best customer service and community! Their quality is second to none and they have been in the game longer than most. I know people who have built FFR Cobras that never worked on a car in their life...
Nice review of options but... some day I'm gonna build... Some day I'm gonna build a Super 7, some day I'm gonna build a XYZ kit Cobra, some day I'm win Power Ball and buy originals, too. Easy to say when there's no skin in the game.
@2:50 Wacha mean by more reliable? Less maintainance? More primitive engines are no detriment to reliability - meantime before failure, quite the opposite, AFAIK.
@4:47 You have to factor in time and opportunity costs, so it is really not just 25 grand.
@6:08 That is not really cheap either, unless you compare it to the original "deathtrap" of the 60ies. :)
Modern engines require less maintenance, tuning, tinkering, etc. Just a fact of life and less likely to be affected by altitude changes and weather. Not that older engine designs don't hold up, but to compare them against modern engines just doesn't work. You only factor in time if you are paying a shop to do the work. Building it on your time is a hobby and therefore hourly rate is not a factor. And cheap is a relative term. To someone who has less than $30k tied up in a FFR car it's expensive, compared to a continuatioj car it's cheap.
none of these replicas are that good. I have a real Shelby and it's worth every penny. None of the copies have a strong tubular frame and strong suspension like the Shelbys. You can put any engine in it you want. My Carroll Shelby Engine Company 427 dyno'd at 600 hp and runs like a sewing machine. I see so many bad replicas at car shows. In the Cobra club I belong to there are many Superformance models and the owners have problems.
When a bloke puts a Chevy engine in a kit and tries to sell it...
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Very informative video mate!! Thank you!!
Lol so true!🤣🤣🤣
Thank you! I'm you enjoyed it.
So basically you want folks to spend stupid money on a kit car 🤣
I don't care what people do with their money.
While building a Cobra replica sounds exciting, it is nearly impossible to register it in most states due to environmental laws. Thus, it can only be used on a track but not on public roads.
That's not true at all. Most states have pretty easy ways to register kit cars for public road use.
Untrue, Cobra kit cars can be registered in all 50 U.S. states.
I would not take one of those junks if it was going to be GIVEN to me!
I would never want a "replica" Cobra from anybody, personally. Either pony up for an authorized copy or go elsewhere. To me, a "replica" Cobra is like having a girlfriend who was a third-line adult performer. At least get the real thing either way, I say.
*I don't go for the old fashioned designs, BUT THIS ONE IS ONE I DO LIKE, the curvy slinky design is just really nice, just look finished with a stainless steel mesh radiator grill in front snout and it's perfect, metalic black would be awesome, 500HP*