Newbie, and another tall one....

Tallguy · #1 (**permalink**) 07-21-2007, 11:55 PM

Hi all,

I have lurked here for several years and and am finally now serious about building a Cobra. Has been a dream for over 20 years (I am 36 now), but just never really thought I would fit. I am ready and determined now, but just need to find the right fit for my 6'6", 240 lb body. I am used to "squeezing" into cars, but have not sat in a Cobra yet (partly to not kill the dream....if I don't fit)

I will be in Texas this week, and plan to visit Lone Star to hopefully sit in my first Cobra, realizing that it is a 94" "extended" wheelbase, which may be what I need....

I have read of dropped foot boxes, special seating, and other things to improve fit, as well as the 7+ footer in the 289 (Bob E)...Amazing! Now its my turn to do the research to find the fit for me. It will be fun.

Talk to you later,

Mark

Cashburn · #2 (**permalink**) 07-22-2007, 07:39 AM

Dave and Sean need to answer this one for you. I will look for a photo.

trularin · #3 (**permalink**) 07-22-2007, 07:44 AM

I am 6'4" and I found the Lone Star to be suitable for a guy our size.

So, Welcome home and keep us up to date on how your build progresses.

h2oman · #4 (**permalink**) 07-22-2007, 03:28 PM

Welcome to CC.
I'm 6'2 225lbs. and have decent room in my BDR. I wouldn't think you would have a problem if the pedals could be placed a couple '' back in the footbox. Footboxes are plenty deep for you in a BDR. Jay should be able to tell you if that can be done.
Never sat in a Lonestar so no opinion on that for you.
BDR has a 92" wheelbase and look very proportionate.
Good luck in your venture.

John McMahon · #5 (**permalink**) 07-22-2007, 04:12 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Tallguy

I have read of dropped foot boxes, special seating, and other things to improve fit, as well as the 7+ footer in the 289 (Bob E)...Amazing!

Mark,

Just an FYI...Bob Evan's Unique 289 FIA Cobra is for sale. If you are not hell bent on building your own car and want a finished car, Too Tall Bob's car already (as you know) has the mods made for a tall guy.

Tallguy · #6 (**permalink**) 07-22-2007, 08:47 PM

Thanks for the replies Guys. I will definitely look at Backdraft before making a final desicion, as well as a long list of others....

As for Bob's 289, I am sure I would fit, but I have always wanted the 427 body, so that's what it will be! Thanks though.

Mark

Lew Ledyard · #7 (**permalink**) 07-22-2007, 09:02 PM

Pay a visit to the Kirkhams in Provo. I am 6'4", 245 lbs with room to spare without having to resort to an extended wheel base.

ROUSHAC · #8 (**permalink**) 07-22-2007, 09:31 PM

Mark,

I'm 6'5", 275 lbs. I have a 34" inseam, so I have a relatively long torso for my height. Here's a pic of me in my Backdraft. It's no more uncomfortable than any car is for me, even on long trips, and a whole lot more fun. Good luck in your search!

Tallguy · #9 (**permalink**) 07-23-2007, 06:33 PM

Lew and Dave,

It's great to here from more "taller" guys. Both Kirkham and Backdraft are on my list. Thanks.

Dave, that's a great looking Cobra, and you do look like you fit pretty well. I agree that being tall, I have never really fit perfect in any car/truck. If I can even be close to how I fit in regular cars, I am sold..... I'll make it work one way or the other though

Mark

Whiplash · #10 (**permalink**) 07-23-2007, 11:33 PM

Heya Mark,

I am 6'3 280#. Needless to say a big dude. I have taken two LONG trips in my BDR and found it to be enjoyable. First piece of advice-have the seat taken off the tracks and bolted directly to the floor/frame. It made a big difference for me.

Second-try the car in the passenger AND the drivers seat. The steering wheel can get a bit tight and you'll need to drive the throttle and brake a little "side saddle". The steering wheel had little to do with weight, just the ergonomics of where it is VS. the footbox angle.

If I had it to do again, I go with Jay every time. He's been nothing but helpful throughout the process and after the car was delivered.

It's a great ride-have fun with the process and make it yours. Feel free to PM me should you have any furthur questions or want to talk in person about builds/options, etc. I did a ton of research. I'd love to help if you need any.

-Sean

Tinker51 · #11 (**permalink**) 07-24-2007, 12:04 AM

6'5" and 235. I fit in my SPF fine.
If you ever find yourself in the Bay Area on a Saturday morning come by for the Bay Area Cobra Club breakfast bull session. Lots of different makes.
http://www.bayareacobraclub.com/events.html

You may also want to look into an Emmerson. Built up north in Redding. A true custom shop and they can do anything you need.
http://www.beyondcobra.com/

Cashburn · #12 (**permalink**) 07-24-2007, 05:54 AM

I call Sean and Dave the "Twin Towers" ... if I had to take 2 customers with me into a bar that had a high potential for trouble, these guys would be it:

We have a number of tricks for the pedals and seat to achieve greater comfort. It also varies by your proportions. If you have more inseam or not. Another customer that has no problem getting things off the top shelf: