Had the opportunity to view the new South African Cobra yesterday at the Unique Performance show, and was generally impressed. They definitely got the body pretty much spot on, the stance is right and the shape is beautiful. The frame appears accurate and exhibits nice workmanship. Paint and bodywork looked good, and the interior generally seemed well fitted. Electricals appear throughly contemporary and well done.
Some detail issues:
The underside of the hood, rather than finished smooth, was finished off with a glossy black, extremely rough surface, almost like an undercoat.
The rear bulkhead is flat, with the suitcase bulge not present.
The footboxes were black gelcoat, not white as the originals.
The car I saw featured poorly executed heat insulation on those footboxes, but this could be improved upon very easily.
The electrics, as mentioned earlier, are different than the originals or the current 3000/4000 series cars which generally duplicated the set ups used in the '60's, and while they do not look authentic, will probably prove more reliable.
Assuming these features continue on throughout production, I don't think owners of current 4000 series 'glass cars need be that concerned. There are production and material compromises that obviously had to be made to meet the new price, and while "purists" may be disappointed, they don't detract from the general look and feel of the car. With the hood closed, it will be hard to tell the difference.
On balance, it appears to be a very nice car. I personally would like to see some details changed, such as the footbox color and the underside finishes, but have to admit that if I were back in the market, this car as it stands for the price would be very hard to resist.
My .02 cents worth.
Bud
Threaded Mode
