New York Registration

[AdamIsAdam]

Howdy folks. I'm new here. I'm starting the research to finally get a Cobra, thus fulfilling a lifelong dream. With that being said, in reading about registering a Cobra in NY, it's more than a little daunting! So some basic questions about my USED Cobra purchase:

- Is it easier if I buy a car that's already been registered in NY, does that make the process just like any other car? Or do I need to worry if the car was originally registered properly?

- If it's a NY registered car, MUST it have that yellow NY DMV sticker? And if it does, am I golden?

- Can a NY car be registered without that yellow decal?

- What year does the car get registered as? I've read conflicting info.

- What happens if the engine is from an old car (ie, 1960's block)? I read one post saying that determine's the car's year, but other posts said the car's year is the year it's first titled in NY.

- What's the story with emissions?

- MOST IMPORTANTLY: If I buy a car from out of state, what are the do's and don't's? Are there any states that make it easier to register the car into NY (like CT, CA?)?

Thanks in advance.

Adam

PS What's the best car? (LOL) (I get it, that's like asking what's the best oil to use.)

[Cashburn]

Originally Posted by AdamIsAdam

Howdy folks. I'm new here. I'm starting the research to finally get a Cobra, thus fulfilling a lifelong dream. With that being said, in reading about registering a Cobra in NY, it's more than a little daunting! So some basic questions about my USED Cobra purchase:

- Is it easier if I buy a car that's already been registered in NY, does that make the process just like any other car? Or do I need to worry if the car was originally registered properly?

- If it's a NY registered car, MUST it have that yellow NY DMV sticker? And if it does, am I golden?

- Can a NY car be registered without that yellow decal?

- What year does the car get registered as? I've read conflicting info.

- What happens if the engine is from an old car (ie, 1960's block)? I read one post saying that determine's the car's year, but other posts said the car's year is the year it's first titled in NY.

- What's the story with emissions?

- MOST IMPORTANTLY: If I buy a car from out of state, what are the do's and don't's? Are there any states that make it easier to register the car into NY (like CT, CA?)?

Thanks in advance.

Adam

PS What's the best car? (LOL) (I get it, that's like asking what's the best oil to use.)

Generally a car previously registered in another state as a 1965 will carryover. I have 2 used Backdrafts titled as 1965s in stock hint hint...

[AdamIsAdam]

Thanks for the info. In terms of best car, I'm looking for the best handling and safest build. Originality is not an issue for me. I heard Backdraft's use of BMW running gear and rear ends can't hold up to more than about 400hp tops. Supposedly a very nice car but not as strong a build and handling car , No?

I'm very open and learning, so feel free to school me! Heading over to VMS web site now...

[FredG]

The fellow Jay who posted above and is the owner of VMS is knowledgeable as anyone in the business. They build some serious cars there. My advice to you on finding the right car would be this. It took me over two years to decide which one I wanted. I originally wanted to build a factory five but dismissed that because I have already been there and done that with a 66 Corvette. I researched and read a lot. I visited a couple of Backdraft dealers to look at the cars went for a ride and drove one. I went to a couple car shows to see is Superformance cars along with some of the continuation cars. Go look at Vanguard Motors webpage as they always have them on there for sale with excellent videos. I narrowed it down to Backdraft and Superformance. If you were looking for a complete originality then you need to go with one of the continuation models but that is going to cost you . Superformance is probably a little better built car but it's also more expensive and I couldn't justify the expense for what I was going to get. I got a heavily optioned used car for an outstanding price. As far as the differential goes, you get in the car what you want to use it for. Mine works just fine with my 550 horsepower Roush engine. The car has BMW suspension so that speaks for itself. Also, Your mechanical ability will also play a big part. Also, when you purchase one of these replicas or continuation cars you better be prepared to work on them. You'll find you don't have a lot of options for repair shops so it's going to be up to you and that's why these forums are so important. Lastly, any of these cars even with the mildest of engines are a handfull and extremely fast. The are exhilarating to drive. Good luck.

PS Talk to Jay from VMS about the new RT4

Fred

[Cashburn]

Originally Posted by AdamIsAdam

Thanks for the info. In terms of best car, I'm looking for the best handling and safest build. Originality is not an issue for me. I heard Backdraft's use of BMW running gear and rear ends can't hold up to more than about 400hp tops. Supposedly a very nice car but not as strong a build and handling car , No?

I'm very open and learning, so feel free to school me! Heading over to VMS web site now...

Someone poured you a big glass of Koolaid. Seeing as how we have cars exceeding 900hp (with some upgrades of course). However every car with one or two exceptions we have sold in the last 4-5 years has had over 500hp and usually over 500hp at the rear wheels.

Take time to do the research. There's a major benefit when it comes to handling (and safety) when you stretch the wheel base and the track width. And then combine that with a proven suspension system?

Don't let the NYS process deter you, it is navigable. We've assisted a couple dozen customers through it over the years.

And yes, there's that RT4 now that should quiet some of the propaganda.

[AdamIsAdam]

Originally Posted by Cashburn

Someone poured you a big glass of Koolaid. Seeing as how we have cars exceeding 900hp (with some upgrades of course). However every car with one or two exceptions we have sold in the last 4-5 years has had over 500hp and usually over 500hp at the rear wheels.

Take time to do the research. There's a major benefit when it comes to handling (and safety) when you stretch the wheel base and the track width. And then combine that with a proven suspension system?

Don't let the NYS process deter you, it is navigable. We've assisted a couple dozen customers through it over the years.

And yes, there's that RT4 now that should quiet some of the propaganda.

I'm looking around on your site (again).

I'm open to be educated, as I said. Feel free to email or PM me if you have a canned reply for "why backdraft." (And what's the difference with the RT4?)

As I said, I'm trying to learn the pros and cons of each brand in some key areas, including:

- safety
- quality
- handling
- longevity
- resale value

My thinking so far was to try for IRS setup. I'm ok with a stretched wheelbase. I'm not sure which cars are stretched though. I'm also thinking a fully designed chassis and matching suspension would be better than using BMW stuff, but again, I'm open as to why that may not be the case.

Mostly, this will be a weekend cruiser, not a track car. I can take my new GT350 to the track and have a ton of fun with all the modern safety stuff too (Plus, that flat plane crank just loves to rev).

I want a car I can work on as needed (hopefully, not "needing" much but more like project work). My 911 is too tight of a package to enjoy, and the Shelby GT350 is covered by an 8 year warranty

Thanks in advance for any info shared.

[Mark IV]

The New York DMV process is a bit of a pain but can be done smoothly so long as you provide the information they want and most importantly DO NOT LIE, FAKE OR BULLSH!T the people in Albany. They know what these cars are and honestly they are more than lenient with some of the requirements. As soon as you try to bull them they will fight back. Like making your inspection appointment months out when there are openings next week.

We are aware of a resale car that they really dragged the guy over the coals on timing. He argued with the Albany people and they got even.

As a NHSTA guy told me once "No bureaucrat ever gets in trouble for saying 'NO'!"

If you would like information on Superformance email us info@timemachinesauto.com

[Cashburn]

Originally Posted by Mark IV

The New York DMV process is a bit of a pain but can be done smoothly so long as you provide the information they want and most importantly DO NOT LIE, FAKE OR BULLSH!T the people in Albany. They know what these cars are and honestly they are more than lenient with some of the requirements. As soon as you try to bull them they will fight back. Like making your inspection appointment months out when there are openings next week.

We are aware of a resale car that they really dragged the guy over the coals on timing. He argued with the Albany people and they got even.

As a NHSTA guy told me once "No bureaucrat ever gets in trouble for saying 'NO'!"

If you would like information on Superformance email us info@timemachinesauto.com

Come on, it's been a lot more pleasant since someone retired