Superformance or Backdraft and why!

[RedBarchetta]

Because, in the end, you get what you pay for.

[jhv48]

So far, just opinions. Looking for some facts too.

And yes, I like the extra room even though I don't need it. The 92 inch wheelbase helps a bit too.

Don't care if it is an exact replica or not. Looking for the ride, quality of build, reliability, etc.

[Big Oil]

Is there a Backdraft dealer in California? Support after the sale probably counts for something and SPF offers a huge convenience factor for SoCal residents.

[Slick61]

Can't go wrong with either car... and I'm not going to start the flame-war.

I like my Backdraft because it's easier to get in & out of. Sit in a FFR or SPF, then sit in a BDR with the seat all the way back. There's less contortioning to be done. The 2" in the cockpit is really noticeable on the ingress/egress. The heat shields on the sidepipes are an option.

As for gauges, I've got Vintage Autometers in mine. I know of a few others that have the Smith's electronic gauges. Others have the VDO.

I'm running a leather-wrapped steering wheel which is identical to the FFR leather wheel, tho I also have the wood Moto-Lita.

I also think Backdraft has the prettiest engine compartment... all that polished stainless really sets off a nice engine. Does a nice job of keeping heat out of the cockpit as well.

And their customer service is dynamite.

[jagxjr5012]

Originally Posted by RedBarchetta

Because, in the end, you get what you pay for.

what? huh?

[Jim Kellogg]

There are a few replica owners that use their Cobra as a "Daily Driver". I have driven my SPF rain/sun/snow year around in upstate NY for several years. I haven't racked up the miles of some drivers on this forum - I seem to remember a FF owner with LOTS of miles in a previous thread, but my SPF has seen several years of rain and snow.

Don't want to clutter the thread with photos, but here is a link to a photo of my SPF "daily driver"
http://www.clubcobra.com/photopost/s...6&ppuser=14970

My friend Don Morse has a beautiful BDR in a one of a kind color. My SPF is a traditional Blue/White. When his car is in the shop, I always hear great comments about his car. The BDR and SPF look very different from each other when parked side by side. Some prefer the looks of the BDR. Others like the look of the SPF. It is simply a matter of preference. Neither is an "exact" copy of the orginal.

When it comes to engine choices, I recommend getting more horsepower than you think you need. You can always add a throttle stop if you have too much horsepower, but it's much harder to go the other way

Another thought...
It is a little known fact that Lance, the CEO of SPF, works very hard to maintain the ownership experience AFTER the sale. He and his staff particpate in ownership discussions and get-togethers, working hard to support the current owner base, and support and improve the product. I'm not sure, but he may even have a photo of my SPF hanging somewhere....

Your dealer can make or break your Cobra experience if you buy new. There are good dealers out there for both brands. I have very limited experience with BDR, but highly recommend Olthoff as an East Coast SPF dealer. Don't just talk to the dealer - ask for the names of a couple of customers - perhaps a recent customer and one that has owned their replica for a couple of years, and ask THEM what they think of the dealer you are considering.

Spend some quality time researching your purchase, and you will be sure to enjoy your replica for years to come.
Enjoy the hunt!
Jim Kellogg
Breesport, NY

[jhv48]

I'm in trouble now.

The guys over at the FFR Forum got wind that I'm thinking about changing teams.

Not happy!

And there is a heck of a lot of them!

[lovehamr]

Originally Posted by jhv48

I'm in trouble now.

The guys over at the FFR Forum got wind that I'm thinking about changing teams.

Not happy!

And there is a heck of a lot of them!

Jim, stay away from the koolaid!

Steve

[RodKnock]

Originally Posted by jhv48

I'm in trouble now.

The guys over at the FFR Forum got wind that I'm thinking about changing teams.

Not happy!

And there is a heck of a lot of them!

Uh, Patrick must not be feeling well today. No comment? Maybe he's mellowing in his old age.

[patrickt]

Originally Posted by RodKnock

Uh, Patrick must not be feeling well today. No comment? Maybe he's mellowing in his old age.

Never felt better, thank you very much. And I'm on record saying I would go with an FFR over a similarly priced CSX car. Surely that speaks for itself.

[Great Asp]

I am on my 3rd Superformance.

Each car I have owned (992, 1380, and now 2715) has never disappointed me.

I have nothing to say about Backdraft since I have never driven nor owned one.

Eric

[Got the Bug]

Originally Posted by Great Asp

I am on my 3rd Superformance.

Each car I have owned (992, 1380, and now 2715) has never disappointed me.

I have nothing to say about Backdraft since I have never driven nor owned one.

Eric

Eric,

You've probably mentioned it before, but what's the "Cliff Notes" story regarding the three SPFs that you've owned? Did you purchase all three new?

[Great Asp]

Originally Posted by Got the Bug

Eric,

You've probably mentioned it before, but what's "Cliff Notes" story regarding the three SPFs that you've owned? Did you purchase all three new?

LOL, the short story..

992, purchased new with a 351W 400 hp, owned it just under a year, hit a deer at 60 mph, got lucky with my driving and no one was injured. The insurance company agreed to total the car, and I ordered 1380.

1380 purchased new, with a 351W based 418 @ 550 hp, owned that car about 2-1/2 years and quit my job, was re-hired, then fired. I got a wild hair and started my own company, I liquidated almost everything I owned including 1380 to start the company. 3-1/2 years later, company is kicking like Bruce Lee, I ordered 2715.

2715 ordered new, (you already know about the motor), and I think I will keep this car for a while...

E

[Got the Bug]

Originally Posted by Great Asp

LOL, the short story..

992, purchased new with a 351W 400 hp, owned it just under a year, hit a deer at 60 mph, got lucky with my driving and no one was injured. The insurance company agreed to total the car, and I ordered 1380.

1380 purchased new, with a 351W based 418 @ 550 hp, owned that car about 2-1/2 years and quit my job, was re-hired, then fired. I got a wild hair and started my own company, I liquidated almost everything I owned including 1380 to start the company. 3-1/2 years later, company is kicking like Bruce Lee, I ordered 2715.

2715 ordered new, (you already know about the motor), and I think I will keep this car for a while...

E

Thanks Eric. Great to hear that your new venture is going well and that 1380 played a roll in funding your start-up. You're definitely a loyal brand advocate...Superformance should use you in an ad.