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Originally Posted by wannabecobra
I am sure some of you get tired of seeing questions similar to this one, but I have noticed the majority of the responses are almost always useful and insightful. Thank you in advance for your input.
After years of research and finally having the financial where-with-all to pull the trigger on a discretionary purchase of a Cobra, I have arrived at the following place with a few questions:
I am considering either a new SPF or BDR (leaning to BDR for price/value ratio) paired with a mild/moderate version of Keith Craft's 408 engine. Any comments on this package combination would be appreciated along with any additional comments on what type of regular maintenance you are doing on your similar Cobras. I am slightly mechanically inclined, but do not have the space for a full blown shop with all appropriate tools, so would probably be seeking professional services anytime I needed any work done.
And finally, if I were able to find a similar combination in a used well taken care of Cobra, what factors should I take into consideration when considering new versus used? Thank you.
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Both are good choices, with fit & finish ranging from good to excellent. The SPF is a little more faithful to the original, and comes more fully-equipped... but at a higher price point. The BDR has a 2" stretched wheelbase, which makes for a roomier cockpit and great handling. You can get most of the same options as a SPF, but at extra cost. I looked at a SPF with a 408 stroker (before I bought my BDR)... it was an awesome car... but it sold before I got back to him.
Routine maintenance is pretty straightforward... do a regular pre-flight check on the vehicle...
oil/coolant level, check bolt torque on carb, intake, heads, headers, sidepipe flanges, etc.; check air pressure, lug nuts/knockoffs et al. You should be able to tell when your plugs are fouled. Solid motor mounts can loosen things up quicker than normal, so is always good to check.
As for the caveats of buying used... well, you won't have a choice on color. Some are drivers (and driven HARD), others are show cars. Don't be surprised if you have to settle for a ride in one... most Cobra owners will not let you test drive. (you'll understand once you own one) It's a lot of car & can be quite dangerous in the wrong hands. Ask to sit in the driver's seat... pedal and seat positioning can be quite different from car to car... make sure you feel comfortable with it. Find out the title/registration particulars of the car... this can be crucial, depending on where you live. There may or may not be some hidden problems on a pre-owned Cobra... you'll just have to deal with it. Once you've looked at, and ridden in a few, you'll probably refine what you want in a Cobra very quickly.
Good Luck-