Quote:
Originally Posted by PHC1
What do you guys think is the "sweet spot" for powering a typical Cobra replica? If the car is to be enjoyed mostly on the streets and driven semi-aggressively on back roads, how much is enough to keep the car fun to drive and feel you have neither over-powered or under-powered the car with the choice of engine? Bragging rights aside, being realistic and keeping driveability in mind for your answer!
Horsepower is fun, especially when you can put it down! Driving a Nissan GT-R with 535HP and 0-60 of 2.8 sec with all wheel drive, dual clutch tranny and launch computer is nothing like driving a Cobra replica with the same HP!  Of course the GT-R can't compare to the raw and exciting experience the Cobra brings either...
So then, would most agree that between 400-500HP is more than enough? Or do many feel between 500-600 is where the sweet spot is? Perhaps below 400 or above 600 for some???  |
This thread could go on forever. While there is a lot to address here to answer your question, I'll simply tell you what has worked for me. I've built a couple of these but never for racing. My first build was purely an experiment with a 428 FE. It went like stink but I never put it on a dyno to see the numbers. The 2nd build was a 427 that I stroked with a 428 crank. I really got carried away with the pursuit of high HP numbers and over did it. My current Cobra has a combination that feels perfect as I drive mine on the street and love to drive (too) fast. Here's what I find to be the best for me:
427 SO block, 428 crank, Ford "Sidewinder" dual plane intake manifold, custom grind cam shaft (.507 lift with 274/284 duration and 110 lobe separation), Edelbrock RPM Performer heads with 2.19 intake valves, Comp Cams roller rocker kit (with end posts), Holley 850 DP 4150 carb, Edelbrock water pump, Canton 8 qt
oil pan, -12
oil cooler, Melling (non-HV)
oil pump, ARP bolts and modified sidepipes.
I run a Lakewood bellhousing with a wide ratio toploader and 3.08 rear end gearing. The car sreams and I have never felt the need for more power. Even with the high gears, the car drives just a little faster than I can think but not so much that it scares me. Too much. I am still playing with the ingition so no advice from me on this.
Horsepower and torque numbers? Not sure but it feels like 500/550ish. With the modified pipes it sounds like even more.
Have fun.