Factory Five/superformance/backdraft

[bobcowan]

Comparing the FFR to a BD or SPF is really tough. Yes, they're all Cobra's, but they're all really differant. The BD and SPF are "factory built". There's a lot of advantages to that, especially when buying used or reselling. You can have the car delivered to your house and be driving it in a few weeks. They say a week end, but I'm a little skeptical on that.

OTOH, the FFR is a u-build-it project. For some people, the build is a huge part of the fun. It took me three years to build my car, and I really enjoyed it. So much so, that I consider selling mine so I can build another one.

Intended use should also be a major facter. The FFR is considerably lighter than the SPF. Not sure about the BD. Both the BD and SPF can be modified to handle and brake very well, and hold a tremendous amount of power. But, you pay for parts and then have to replace them to get where you want to be. If you build the car the way you want it to start with, you can save a bunch of money. A good example is brakes. The brakes on both SPF and BD are plenty good enough for the street and autocross. But inadequate for the road course. You may spend a couple thousand upgrading those. Can the BD differential handle 550hp? I don't know, but I'm skeptical.

If you're looking for an exact replica, the BD and FFR are not for you. There are way to many visual differances from original. They can be changed, but again you're talking time and money. I think the most accurate and high quality kits available is the Unique or the Kirkham. When I looked at them a few years ago I was really impressed. And they've gotten better since then.

Another thing to consider is aftermarket support. If your nearest SPF dealer is 6 hours away, that could be a problem. Especially if you're not a builder kinda guy.

If you're not a builder, but want something unique, consider having somebody like Gordon Levy build one for you.