Cobra Want to be Owner

[harlan]

I have been looking at Cobra Replicas for sale and plan to buy when I find the right Cobra. In my research I have found that there is a wide spread in cost depending on the manufacturer and drive train. I somewhat undrstand difference in price depending on the drive train (motor/hp) what I'm not knowledgeable about is what is considered the best manufacture of body and frame. I'm sure there are difference in opinion on this, I'm trying to not make a mistake in what I buy, so I would appreciate it if anyone could share with me their opinion who they consider is the best manufacturer and why. If anyone has a Cobra they are coonsidering selling let me know. Thanks.....

[jredford]

As with anything...it depends on your budget...i just bought mine a month or so ago after about a 6 month search. I was looking for something under $30k, which limited the field to cars that were a little older. Higher budgets ($50k + ) can go with Backdraft, Superperformance, Kirkham, ERA, etc. You can find some in the 30-40k range that are very good too...Lonestar, Factory Five, etc. The quality of the build and quality of the engine will make all the difference. I would start a list of thing you must have in the car (ie I only wanted a big block) and that will help you narrow down your field also. The other thing i did was to track cars for sale on Cobra Country, Ebay, Craigslist and Factory Five Forums and especially the For Sale here....that way i learned what the market was or was not for certain cars.

Best of Luck...it is a wonderful day when you bring it home ...

[tomh440]

The other thing you may want to consider are things like cockpit size. Some are extended (Lonestar) and other have a standard wheelbase. Also if you are racing or just cruising/street use. You should really consider going to a local club meet and talking to owners and sitting in different cars yo see what works best for you.

[mrmustang]

Originally Posted by harlan

I have been looking at Cobra Replicas for sale and plan to buy when I find the right Cobra. In my research I have found that there is a wide spread in cost depending on the manufacturer and drive train. I somewhat undrstand difference in price depending on the drive train (motor/hp) what I'm not knowledgeable about is what is considered the best manufacture of body and frame. I'm sure there are difference in opinion on this, I'm trying to not make a mistake in what I buy, so I would appreciate it if anyone could share with me their opinion who they consider is the best manufacturer and why. If anyone has a Cobra they are coonsidering selling let me know. Thanks.....

First how about you answer the following questions as everyones "wants and needs" are different.

1: Your budget (be realistic)
2: Do you want a big block or a small block powered vehicle?
3: What is your intended use for it once you own it (street cruiser, daily driver, road racer, show queen, etc)
4: Do you expect to have knock off wheels, or bolt on wheels, how about wipers, heater, a top, etc?

Once you can honestly respond to these simple questions, we can then help guide you through the process to find you the best car for your buck.


Bill S.

[sspano01]

I'd add a #5 to Bill's list
5) How do you feel about Maintenece (mechanical/body/etc)?

If can do alot of the work yourself then perhaps changing engine parts, suspension/wheels/etc over time from someone else's build is not a big deal.

But if you are looking mostly for a 'get-in-and-drive' car without having to fiddle, then I would say focus highly on the build quality of the car you are looking at.

Big block/small block/etc - either one you wind up with, you'll have a car that very very few people have and some actually never heard of! any everyone will love it

So if you are mechanically inclined and tracking down issues isn't a big deal, then you probably have a much wider variety of car to choose from.

I assembled my replica myself and its been 98% done for a year now
I think in 100 years, it will 99% done....always some to play with or try a little different. but it is hands down the best car to drive anywhere.

good luck in looking!

[gsharapa]

Based on all the recent posts the last week or so on dramatic price increases on Shelby, Kirkham, Superformance etc. I'd say if you are interested in buying a Cobra I wouldn't wait too long as the used ones will probably start going up based on what is happening to the new rollers....

[Seagull81]

harlan,
Where are you in Texas?
The last weekend in March the Austin Cobra Club hosts the Texas Cobra Club Spring Meet in San Marcos. we have around 100 Cobras from all over the state and a few from other states. You can see almost every make of Cobra there. Some may even be for sale. Just ask and I'm sure you can get a ride or two.
Texas Cobra Meet

[patrickt]

Originally Posted by harlan

In my research I have found that there is a wide spread in cost depending on the manufacturer and drive train.

Harlan, this is one of my favorite threads on exactly what you just asked kit car ratings
Note that the OP "disappeared" after that thread - a "three post lifespan."

[harlan]

Thanks, for all the responses. I'm simi retired and I'm looking for a cruiser that I can do some minor mechanical tinkering. I think the suggestion to go to the next rally is probably a good one and I will look into that. I'm located in the DFW area.

[Joe Wicked]

Harlan,
The Dallas Cobra Club meets the first Saturday of the month every month. Watch this page for the February meeting. This past weekend was our January. I have been watching and dreaming with these guys for 4 1/2 years now. I can tell you that if you show up and ask around, they will be more than helpful in helping you make your decision. Many will offer you a ride as well.

[LG57]

I'm new here and just saw Harlan's post. That would almost exactly describe me. Is there a Houston area club I could contact?

[am9648]

Originally Posted by LG57

I'm new here and just saw Harlan's post. That would almost exactly describe me. Is there a Houston area club I could contact?

We meet the 2nd Sat of the month.

Sign on the the HCC yahoo site for info and updates.

[Madmiles442]

PM sent, harlan.

[DanMartin]

Harlan,

There's one more thing you need to take into consideration, and that is how in-shape your face is. You need to be prepared to have a permanent grin on your face while you are driving your Cobra...which may go on for hours or days at a time. Not everyone can handle this kind of pure excitement, so please do take some time to practice before buying your first one.



Here's a good read (and accurate too):
Driving A Cobra Replica

[G-Pete]

Originally Posted by DanMartin

Here's a good read (and accurate too):
Driving A Cobra Replica

Yes, good one - but how does he know "Like being in a relationship with an exotic dancer, you can never take anything for granted"

hehehehe

[SoTxButler]

Too true!! These Cobra girls know the Dance of Death, so be very careful and restrained. But having said that, these girls really know how to dance. Back on topic....do make the trip to San Marcos, you will have a great time and see every kind of Cobra there is.

[trularin]

OMG that is a great piece.

Thanks for posting that link.

[392cobra]

Originally Posted by DanMartin

Here's a good read (and accurate too):
Driving A Cobra Replica

Would have been nice if the person who put this in his Blog had given credit to the Cobra Owner/Racer & CC Member that actually wrote it : Hal Kopple.

[elmariachi]

I know where there is a bada$$ ERA with a properly-built 427 side oiler that needs a good home and can be bought right. PM or email me for more info.

Jim

[Bryan Anderson]

Please Take a look at B&B at *B&B Manufacturing - :::: - Feel the Thunder - :::: - Hotrods from Kit to Turn Key - :::: we have been in the business for over 30 years we build everything in house, and we have a very fair priced car, turnkey small block cobra starting at 29,900

thanks
Bryan
Buy US made products.