Hi,
New to the Forum, from Australia and have follwed the Cobra replica industry for >25 years. I hold a sort of timeless fascination for them. However having been an Engineer now for 20 years I see things in a slightly different light in terms of design efficiency and optimisation. I got the following from ERA.
Weight [w/ iron Ford 427] ...2600 lb.
Weight distribution, f/r(%).......49/51
Wheelbase.................................90"
Track, front/rear..................55"/57"
Length, overall........................156"
Width, maximum......................70"
Torsional bending stiffness.......3500ft.lbs per degree of twist
Couple of issues I have:
1. Wheelbase per se a little short
2. Dont like the rear track being wider than front
3. Not very stiff compared with production sports cars
4. No hardtop = no safety
Has anyone considered addressing these shortcomings with a few design tweaks? Eg. Lengthen the wheelbase to about 95", Increase the track to about 63", Incorporate a full rollcage into the chassis and make the body a hardtop fastback and bond/bolt to chassis. Add some ground effects and you will have a safe 180 MPH car with less than 500hp. It is for these reasons I am considering starting the design process on the above. Would there be a market? Love to hear from you.
May look a little like this...
AC Cars Mk VI Cobra Gullwing Launched In Europe | Reviews | Prices | Australian specifications