[Excaliber]

I don't know what Oscar ever did about finding a Cobra, we've not heard back for quite awhile, but here are some of my thoughts for anyone looking for their first Cobra. Perhaps they will stumble across this thread in their search down the road...

I'd stay focused on the exterior looks first, get that right and go from there. Rather than worry about the frame or under the hood, etc, things that are not readily apparent. Now, as you become more familiar with the history and perhaps come to appreciate it more then under the hood and such becomes more of a concern, but for starters....

Things I like to see:
A proper dash, with proper gauges. Black and white, leaning toward a period correct look. Wheels, that makes or breaks a Cobra, perhaps one of the most important considerations. While I prefer a 15" size, a 16 or 17 can still look reasonable IF the wheel design is basically period correct or close to it. Back to the dash, interior. While some folks like the look of wood, or crushed velvet interior, go conservative here. Some originals had a bright red interior, most did not, chose wisely. Stay within reasonable bounds, classic dash, carpet, seats say so much about the car. Glaring and outspoken paint jobs are interesting, but they are also controversial and almost certainly will have a negative impact on re-sale value. Bright orange, yellow look terrific when done right. I like a nice green myself, but reality check is it's generally not the best choice for re-sale. Again, stick with classic colors unless the car and the price are exceptional. Blue, red, black with various stripes or none, all look good and appeal to the wider range of potential buyers down the road.

Nothing wrong with a 5 speed trans vs the classic top loader, BUT, do go with a classic shifter and consider a 4 speed shift knob on top of the 5 speed stick shift. You don't need to flaunt the fact it has a 5 speed, keep it on the down low. Fact is, a five speed could enhance re-sale value, but is not the best choice when it comes to "period correct".

Body shape/style. Keep it as close to "real" as you can. While some of the long wheel base cars offer more room, perhaps more comfort, after awhile you WILL begin to notice the difference in the "look" and it may well start to "eat on you". In the regard, be careful about what you are willing to sacrafice to get the car you really want. Because those "little things" you gave up to get a better price can really work negatively on your psyche as the months and years go by. The list of "I shoulda, coulda have done or bought,,," can be quite disconcerting in time. Maybe you really don't like the color, the type of engine, the body style, the wheels, the interior, that will haunt you in time.