Should I consider a StreetBeasts Cobra for Autocrossing?
 

All,

My son and I have been autocrossing our Porsche 914's for the last year in local SCCA Solo events and started looking for a "step up" during the holiday break. Just when I'd decided that a formula-style D Sports Racer (typically raced in the SCCA B-Modified class) would be the most bang-for-the-buck, an opportunity to buy a partially complete StreetBeasts Stretch Cobra came up.

I had looked into buying a Cobra replica about 8 months back and had only considered FFR and Superperformance kits and cars. Based on what I've recently found on StreetBeasts/Innovative Street Machines/CMC's checkered past, I wouldn't be considering this kit if it were not for the almost giveaway price. I've not yet committed and, even though I expect some "Run away! Run away fast!" responses, I'd really appreciate objective feedback regarding whether what's there could be made into a worthwhile autocross car.

The state of the car is a rolling frame with StreetBeasts' standard suspension and brakes (disks up front, drums on the rear). A new 345HP 302 is mounted with what I think is a T-5 transmission. The steering rack is mounted and the linkage and column are still in the boxes. The wheels are American Racing, 14X6 up front and 15X7 on the rear. There are a number of new and donor vehicle parts I'd have to get but everything else is new in boxes. The one "strength" I've found in researching StreetBeasts (and even this was mixed) was with their glass work and this body and liner looks good.

What I'd appreciate feedback on is whether building up what's there for autocrossing makes sense and, if so, what enhancements I should first consider. Any cost information for these types of enhancements would be appreciated. I'd rather put the money most people would put into the cosmetics of the car into the suspension, brakes, and wheels/tires. I'd like to make the car street legal but the DSR as an alternative would not be. Finishing out the exterior and interior later on is certainly an option.

Thanks in advance for ALL feedback you might provide.

Mike Moulckers
Houston, TX

I wouldn't jump at the chance to buy a Street Beast. A friend bought a partially assembled one and had to change/modify just about everything on the car to make it correct. I would consider a used FFR challenge car as they are set up for racing and your total investment would probably be a lot less and you would have a much better car for your purposes. IMHO
John

Mike -
If your objective is to be competitive in SCCA autocrossing, you should determine what class your completed car would be in and see what the competition is running. When I tried autocross, my car was classified in A Prepared and ran against some very strong competition from Mazda. My opinion is that Cobras are not generally the best for competitive autocrossing, but they are fun and can be made street legal. I have no experience with Street Beasts and can't comment on that particular kit.

There are spec racers on the market now in the $21-25K range. I'd be surprised if the car you are looking at is much cheaper than that.

Thanks for the feedback. Not exactly what I had hoped to hear, but it helped me make my decision. Looks like we'll stick with the DSR plans.

Thanks,
Mike

Woundn't waste the time or the MONEY on a Street Beasts.

Looks like a good one. :cool:

http://www.racingjunk.com/post/76155...-Roadster.html
John

Hi Mike,

There is a add for a couple of Cobras on the FFR discussion site under cobras for sale. They may be what you are looking for? The add isn't that old.

George

Dsr
 

If I were you, I would consider a DSR for autocrossing. :D