looking to buy, toooo many choices, help!!!

[Gatorac]

Originally Posted by edd

Hi guys,
I'm sure you've heard these questions many times before, but I only want to do this once, and apreciate any help I can get. I have around $35,000 to work with. I'm looking for a turn key car, that would be reasonably dependable, that I would'nt have to be wrenching on, all the time. Did alot of that in my teens and twentys, but now I'm 54, and it seems like I'm always busy. (just haven't figured out, what I'm alway busy at) But anyhow, thanks in advance.
Ed

#1 What can I expect for that kind of money.
#2 There are alot of manufactors, any to stay away from.
#3 Big block/Small block
#4 Suspenion types.

First thing is to set a budget which you have done. Next is to define what you want to do with the car. Street driver, show car, track whore or double duty. Then decide if a faithful replica is important or do you prefer more of a "hot rod". A Cobra is somewhat like a Harley. Expect things to need attention at regular intervals. If your not handy with a wrench then you should have a good relationship with a mechanic willing to work on one of these. Let us know your location and someone here may have a recommendation.


With your budget looking for a turn key you are most likely looking at a pre-owned Cobra. That's a good thing as now is a good time to find a bargain. $35k should get you into almost any used replica other then ERA, SPF or Kirkham. If your planning on driving the snot out if it, you may be better to buy an older one that already has the inevitable stone chips on it. No sense in you taking the depreciation if you can avoid it.

Stay away from Street Beasts or whatever they are calling themselves now. A quick Internet search will give you plenty of reasons why.

Big block over small block talk can incite riots on this site. It comes down to budget, what you are planning to do with the car and how faithful of a replica to the original you want. Define those first.

As for suspension I think it's pretty universal that an IRS is a better choice in a Cobra. They already suffer from short wheel base. No need to throw in a straight axle to make handling the bumps worse.

Enjoy your search.