What's an ideal build/combination for my needs?

[anthonyL]

Originally Posted by Midcont

I've been thinking about a Cobra replica on and off for a few years since having a few days in a Backdraft model. If I buy, I'd be looking at something preowned/prebuilt and hopefully ironed out.
My research and perceived budget (I'd like to be in the 50's or low 60's) and what I think are the sweet spot for these cars is the Superformance 427, so that's what I have some questions on.

I'd be using the car both locally and on highway. I'd take it to work a few days here and there in the summer (all highway) and I'd take it for some fun rides on weekends. I want the most modern handling realistically available and the most fun to drive in a car that looks retro but has solid reliability. I'm not going to work on the car myself so I don't want constant tweaking and tuning. I do want power and while I know its a tricky car to put power down in, I don't think I'd want anything with much less than 500 (but I'm not looking for 800 either).




So if you guys with experience could put together a check list of parts to meet this goal, what would they be? That list would include:
Engine (by builder and or size/type/parts used):
Cooling:
Geartrain including highway ratios:
Suspension:
Brakes:

I've read enough to be cautious of Rousch engines and know the limitations of billboard tires. There is just a lot of options (and opinions) out there so I wanted to see if there would be any consistency to my situation.

I'm sure I left a lot out so please, ask me any questions. Thanks for any help.

This is strictly just my opinion… But if you are looking to spend 50k to the low $60,000 range build a NEW backdraft. Also sounds like you are looking for the reliability of a coyote... You won't have 500 hp but I have been told that the performance of the coyote is very similar to the Ford racing 427 which is 535 hp. If that is correct about the coyote performance I can tell you that my BDR with the Ford racing 427 out ran my Porsche 911. My backdraft was stupid fast! I'm actually building a new backdraft right now. I built my first car in 2011 and looked at every replica available...I really did my homework and could go on and on why I chose backdraft but the main reason for me was the look of the body. Besides the fact that I think the BDR has a nicer look to it than all the replicas out there (AGAIN JUST MY OPINION) Vintage Motorsports builds backdrafts and in doing all my research in 2011 I knew they where the ONLY guys I wanted to build my car. Thier reputation was great and considering that I've already built with them once and I'm almost done with my second build I can tell you their good reputation is well deserved. I consider myself a pain in the ass but their attention to detail, knowledge, customization options and time they will spend with you before, during, and after the Build is well worth spending a little extra cash to get a NEW car.
Hope my opinion was helpful