The best cobra for Bob

bubela · #1 (**permalink**) 07-18-2018, 01:07 PM

I have done a bunch of reading on this site. (Thanks guys!!) Definitely helped me narrow down my search and figure out more of what I want. I was itching and ready to pull the trigger, but I'm cooling my jets and want to find the right car the first go-around.

I'm now definitely getting a big block car.

Looks like the 429/460 are the same exhaust pattern while the 390/428 is different. Not sure where the 427 falls in there. Trying to make my future easier per chance I have to do an engine swap.

If anyone knows of a quality replica (Unique, SPF, ERA) with a big block for sale, please send it my way. If there's one with a blown (needing to be replaced) engine, that would probably be even better.

I don't think I want a Backdraft because I know a lot about the BMW suspension/axles, and it doesn't hold the kind of torque I'd like to throw at it. Does anyone know how well the Jag rear end holds up? What's needed for say: 600-650 wtq? I would like an IRS, not a solid axle.

Texas seems to have a good selection and the lowest priced cars and currently has one that my eye is on.

patrickt · #2 (**permalink**) 07-18-2018, 04:18 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bubela

If anyone knows of a quality replica (Unique, SPF, ERA) with a big block for sale, please send it my way. If there's one with a blown (needing to be replaced) engine, that would probably be even better.

This is a very nice big block ERA. 427FE, Jag rear, looks to have been very well maintained. Reasonably priced at $80k.
https://www.cobracountry.com/cars-fo...a-427sc-cobra/

Mark IV · #3 (**permalink**) 07-18-2018, 04:40 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bubela

Looks like the 429/460 are the same exhaust pattern while the 390/428 is different. Not sure where the 427 falls in there. Trying to make my future easier per chance I have to do an engine swap.

The 427 is an "FE" series and shares exhaust port patterns (but not necessarily port size) with all "FE" engines. Yes, the "385" series engines (429/460 except for 'Boss 429' are the same as well). And most Windsors (289 to 351W) are the same except once more there are aftermarket and special heads with raised ports and other anomalies that violate the rules!

Ruling out a non "big block" removes a lot of potential cars that will have the same or more HP/torque numbers. It's not the size of the boat but the motion of the ocean that determines the giddy-up in these cars.

1SwtRide · #4 (**permalink**) 07-19-2018, 01:53 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bubela

I don't think I want a Backdraft because I know a lot about the BMW suspension/axles, and it doesn't hold the kind of torque I'd like to throw at it. Does anyone know how well the Jag rear end holds up? What's needed for say: 600-650 wtq? I would like an IRS, not a solid axle.

It's fun to travel with you on your Cobra adventure. Nothing better as I've done the same. Before you discount Backdraft based on your concern about it's ability to handle the torque, check out Vintage Motorsports (Welcome to VINTAGE Motorsports ). Jay and Brian Linke have built some of the best Cobra's around. I describe the quality of their work as being on par with Singer Porsche.

Here's a link to my build - Let me introduce BDR 1591 aka VMS Mayhem . I went the modern power plant route (Aluminator 5.0 racing block (low compression) with a 2.9 Whipple on top). I'm currently dialed in with the race set up making 800+ rwhp / 650+ rwtq. I've raced it at roll racing events (video below) and the 1/4 mile. The car handles the power like it's nothing. That's attributable to the VMS building up the suspension and drivetrain as needed.

As you're in Pa., it's worth a trip to their shop in CT (Jay goes by Cashburn on this site) or, if you don't mind coming to NJ, happy to meet up so you can check out my car.

Regardless of your decision, enjoy your search and best of luck!

John

Mayhem at 4:18 and 4:30 of this video