289FIA Kirkham @ Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale

[RodKnock]

Originally Posted by peterpjb

here is the answer of the eminence of Cobra replicas

Originally Posted by David Kirkham

For example, installing the wrong engine in one of our cars DRASTICALLY reduces the value of the car. I have seen our cars (with the wrong engine installed) sell for LESS than the car would have sold for without an engine at all. Correct valve covers, air cleaners, fan belts--are all important for the look of the car and its resale value. It's a tricky, often conflicting, world to navigate; a Tremec transmission is preferred while I've seen a 351 engine or (just as bad) a 428 engine absolutely kill the resale value of our cars.

First, David seems to be speaking about the 1,000 replicas he's built. Do you see the words "our cars"?

Second, there are only so many old people left who desire "original" Cobra replicas. Eventually, you have to expand your market to the younger generation, at least that's what I think.

Third, a 428 engine is original, yet it decreases value in a Kirkham. Does it do so in an ERA? Let's ask Patrick. But then a Tremec isn't original, but the lack of it, in a Kirkham, decreases value? Lots of peculiarities and contradictions here.

I'll stick to my original opinion, where the drunks at a B-J auction aren't big into originality. Now, if you're trying to sell a replica at a SAAC convention, then that's a different audience. But, opinions will vary.

[patrickt]

Originally Posted by RodKnock

Third, a 428 engine is original, yet it decreases value in a Kirkham. Does it do so in an ERA? Let's ask Patrick.

My 428FE is offset by my dual roll bars, so it's ok.

[David Kirkham]

Originally Posted by F355FTS

The hybrid, small block, 5 speed, under car exhaust combo is what I feel held the price down.

People want big block, 4 speed, and side exhaust.

Our customers, by and large, want 427 cars (that's what the numbers bear out). From what we have seen, customers just don't want much deviation from original. The main exception to this rule is the Tremec transmission. It is very rare (even among the die hard, original 289 Street crowd) to install a 4 speed transmission any more. The ONLY guys who install them seem to be guys who are constrained by racing rules. There is, however, some variation to this with our customers from England who, by and large, prefer the Top Loader transmissions. I think a 289 Hybrid is a special case that probably requires a special buyer.

Originally Posted by RodKnock

First, David seems to be speaking about the 1,000 replicas he's built. Do you see the words "our cars"?

Yes, my comments are directed around our cars. I really don't know too much about other makes cars.

Originally Posted by RodKnock

Second, there are only so many old people left who desire "original" Cobra replicas. Eventually, you have to expand your market to the younger generation, at least that's what I think.

Even our younger customers want the car to look as original as possible--especially under the hood. Interestingly, that really hasn't changed over the years. Every time I think we are going to need to expand our market, I look at our back log and realize younger guys must be buying our cars. Our Coupes are still sold out into 2020 now.

Originally Posted by RodKnock

Lots of peculiarities and contradictions here.

Now ain't that the truth! It certainly is an interesting market with very interesting customers.

David