Should I consider a StreetBeasts Cobra for Autocrossing?

[mike9146]

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