New guy with basic questions - Page 2

REAL 1 · #1 (**permalink**) 06-11-2013, 05:22 PM

Zo6 is a much more stable platform. A cobra has a 90" wheelbase in a very light and very powerful package. An accurate replica will have IRS. A cobra is a car u better know what u are doing if you want to drive it fast. It will kill the foolish and imprudent without hesitation or notice.

In skilled hands they are still very fast.

dallas_ · #2 (**permalink**) 06-12-2013, 07:52 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Emurph

I'd really like an unbiased opinion and some basic info on these cars. What are the differences and pros and cons. I appreciate any feedback.
Thanks!

The best thing to do it visit your local Cobra club meet and look at some actual cars. The guys there will be more than happy to show you the different makes and you will likely get to ride in one too.

Cool cars for sure, but like the others have said, quite impractical and not for everyone. Best to find out if it's really for you before buying.

Emurph · #3 (**permalink**) 06-12-2013, 09:51 AM

Thanks! I'm in central PA near Harrisburg

Three Peaks · #4 (**permalink**) 06-12-2013, 08:57 PM

For the budget mentioned, I've seen several Contemporary Classic cobras that had just about everything you are looking for.
Contemporarys are very well built Cobras but they have been out of production for quite some time. Very original looking, great drivers, many with big blocks in them. Keep them on your list if you are shopping.

Also, contrary to some opinions, I've seen some very nice Factory Five cobras built by the owners that would compete with just about any other kit. You just have to do your homework when shopping. Best to take someone with you who knows and understands Cobras and how they are built to help you separate the wheat from the chafe.....

Bob

mdross1 · #5 (**permalink**) 06-13-2013, 05:35 AM

You will get a lot of good info from this site use it wisely.Remember this, not all cars are created equal no matter the manufactors name plate especially used.Keep doing your research check out a few cars ride or drive in a few examples.
You can get in trouble with these cars in a hurry not using your head,but a little common sense and gradually working your way up the experience ladder you will be fine.
We all have different experience levels sounds like you will be Okay no matter what you drive.Good Luck in your search this part should be enjoyable weeding through all the info you will need for your choice of Cobra's.

Emurph · #6 (**permalink**) 06-13-2013, 05:54 AM

Thanks! I always enjoy the research and shopping part! I appreciate the info on Vintage Motorsports. I may have to up my budget slightly! It looks like they sell the Backdraft for 35 and I can pick an engine package and get a brand new car! They offer the Coyote engine from the new mustangs. That might be a nice option as far as reliability. Maybe not as cool and powerful as the 427? They also have an EFI 427 which is appealing to me. Seems like you could get a brand new one for 35+20ish? Maybe a slightly used one similar to that would get me close to the 40 number? All good info and greatly appreciated. I do need to see some up close and personal, very good advice. Thanks again!

RodKnock · #7 (**permalink**) 06-13-2013, 10:12 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Emurph

Seems like you could get a brand new one for 35+20ish?

Now once you get up in the budget area of $50K, you'll start to see Superformance Cobras, which is considered a Cobra that is closer on the authenticity spectrum to an original CSX3000.

I just happened to pick this one, because it's at the top of the list on CobraCountry, asking $48,900, but I'm sure there are many others.

http://www.cobracountry.com/cobra4sa...b-1296x790.jpg

patrickt · #8 (**permalink**) 06-13-2013, 10:22 AM

Throw in an additional wad of cash and you can get a car that has the windshield wipers going in the opposite direction. Seriously. The higher up in the food chain you go, the more you pay for little things like that. If stuff like that doesn't matter to you, then don't pay for it. If you're not sure, then take the time to learn about them before you pay for them.

lippy · #9 (**permalink**) 06-13-2013, 11:25 AM

I am in the process of building an ERA now. When I started this process early last year, I found it enormously helpful to see as many Cobras as possible in person. They all look similar in photos but there are several large and small differences you will see in person, and you can decide what's important to you. I also found that my initial list of wants and needs changed dramatically, and (unfortunately) so did the price of the project. But I'm not planning on building a ton of Cobras in my life, so I really tried to get it right the first time.

Emurph · #10 (**permalink**) 06-13-2013, 11:54 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by lippy

I am in the process of building an ERA now. When I started this process early last year, I found it enormously helpful to see as many Cobras as possible in person. They all look similar in photos but there are several large and small differences you will see in person, and you can decide what's important to you. I also found that my initial list of wants and needs changed dramatically, and (unfortunately) so did the price of the project. But I'm not planning on building a ton of Cobras in my life, so I really tried to get it right the first time.

Awesome! Congratulations. What made you decide on the ERA over the others? What type of power are you going with? Did you go to cobra events to see the different ones? I can really see the value in seeing them In person. I'm not in a hurry and also want to get it right the first time. I bought a 69 Camaro ss/rs from the internet after looking at a million on line but should have seen More in person. Expensive lesson learned! Thanks!

lippy · #11 (**permalink**) 06-13-2013, 12:09 PM

I saw some at a ClubCobra NoCal breakfast and in showrooms (e.g., SF Sportscars), and some of the FFcars and ClubCobra members were nice enough to invite me over to see their cars. Once I saw them in person, I narrowed my search to ERA, CSX, and Kirkham as the looks and quality of those three really appealed to me. The main reason I'm doing this project is to do it with my three small children, and the only one of those three that you build yourself is ERA, so I went with that. I've been building it for about a month now, and I'm very happy with the quality and customer service of ERA. If I were to buy a pre-built one, price independent, I think my order would be Kirkham, then ERA, and then CSX. BTW, Brent at B2 is building me an all-aluminum (Pond block) 427/482 solid roller FE. I considered FastEFI 2.0 but ultimately went with a carb. More details here Lippy's ERA #797 build log. PM me if you want to chat.

henrik · #12 (**permalink**) 06-13-2013, 12:21 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by lippy

... I think my order would be Kirkham, then ERA, and then CSX. BTW, Brent at B2 is building me an all-aluminum (Pond block) 427/482 solid roller FE. I considered FastEFI 2.0 but ultimately went with a carb.

I would love a Alu Kirkham ... even a roller for $ 40-50'

Kirkham or CSX are way over $ 100'

patrickt · #13 (**permalink**) 06-13-2013, 12:21 PM

Emurph -- for a new ERA, CSX, or KMS you will have to more than double your allotted cash outlay (and that's assuming you have ERA do all the work and you don't do it yourself). I agree with henrik, go with a BDR.

MOTORHEAD · #14 (**permalink**) 06-13-2013, 12:22 PM

Emurph: where are you located ?
From everything you have posted here, I'd say get a used Backdraft, they are available in your price range. Henrik has pointed out some of the +'s, here's a few more:
1 It's a factory built car, painted, upholstered, wired ! Everything but engine, tranny, and whatever accessories the owner wants to add.
2 Most have opted for the 17" wheels, which aside from better handling, gives you more tire choices.
3 Suspension is the well proven BMW 3 series, along with the 3series diff. which will handle most power applications.
I've completed and driven about 2 dozen of these with everything from a 302 to an original all iron 427, and everything in between.
For cruising I like the small block ford racing 347. Plenty of power, less noise and effort.
For best sports car overall feeling, the ford racing boss 347, 450 hp is hard to beat !
I may have something for you, depending on where you live, let me know.

Ted Radtke
2

Emurph · #15 (**permalink**) 06-13-2013, 12:49 PM

Great info. Thanks. I'm in central pa near Harrisburg. The BDR has a BMW differential? It can handle the power options available? Wow!

RodKnock · #16 (**permalink**) 06-13-2013, 01:00 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Emurph

The BDR has a BMW differential? It can handle the power options available? Wow!

Yes, but I'm not sure why some people don't or can't understand that a BMW is a performance car, made in both 2-door and 4-door and puts forth a ton of power. And is an excellent track car.

henrik · #17 (**permalink**) 06-13-2013, 01:06 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Emurph

Great info. Thanks. I'm in central pa near Harrisburg. The BDR has a BMW differential? It can handle the power options available? Wow!

Backdraft has BMW M E36 brakes, suspension +++ and is like driving a very short BMW M3 with way too much power... almost a gocart with perfect weight ratio.

For me the BMW set up was a significant factor... muct better handling ( call Jay at Vintage)

unless you put slicks on the monster the differential will hold ( it will spinn if you flip you toe

) just make sure to buy proper tires... dont save a few $...

And now you should concentrate on reading some of the old threads... think about options, colour etc. enjoy

MJJ · #18 (**permalink**) 06-13-2013, 01:05 PM

What do you guys think about this motor?
427 CUBIC INCHES ALUMINUM CRATE ENGINE REAR SUMP | Part Details for M-6007-Z427ART* | Ford Racing Performance Parts

I am going to look at a Hurricane Motorsports cobra on Monday since the factory is 90min from my home. They seem to have good reviews. Anybody have thoughts on these cars?

patrickt · #19 (**permalink**) 06-13-2013, 01:07 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MJJ

What do you guys think about this motor?
427 CUBIC INCHES ALUMINUM CRATE ENGINE REAR SUMP | Part Details for M-6007-Z427ART* | Ford Racing Performance Parts

I am going to look at a Hurricane Motorsports cobra on Monday since the factory is 90min from my home. They seem to have good reviews. Anybody have thoughts on these cars?

Before I dropped $15k on a crate motor that still needs additional parts, I would let blykins build me a custom motor. I'd get what I wanted and save money in the process.

RodKnock · #20 (**permalink**) 06-13-2013, 01:13 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by patrickt

Before I dropped $15k on a crate motor that still needs additional parts, I would let blykins build me a custom motor. I'd get what I wanted and save money in the process.

Tru Dat.

Hurricane, I forgot about them. The went out of business for a while and then they were brought back to life by new owners. I haven't heard anything negative about them. I'd check them out too.

BDR or a used SPF seem just about right in the sweet spot for your money.