stevebez

OK I know its not part of the forum but since we are all enthusiasts I need some advice from my American friends - since I will be using American power....- err or maybe I wont !!!

After my recent moods to the E55 I got the bug to get stuck into a major project... so here goes.

The chassis and bodywork is all sorted (as in I know the kit manufacturer, colour I want and style) but would like recommendations as to what power source to use that will deliver serious power... I aint building this for doodling around town... target around +600rwhp... also want a motor that will rev freely i.e. up to ~7k rpm.

Yes I know I could fit in a 55K unit but lets not go there... for now ...

I need to know if I should go TT / SC or NOS ?
Chevvy? small block or big block ?
Tranny auto or manual? If so which one ...?

Any advice welcome ... and sorry mods for this thread but mbe once the guys have put something in you can move it to off topic??

JAYCL600

i would to TT on a ford 4.6 if you want rpm, or if it were mine id go stroked 351 to 427 then TT it, it will make a bit more tq and less stress on the motor.

amdeutsch

AC Cobra or the Factory Five replica?

stevebez

Its going to be a replica (think DAX at mom - but not decided) the $300,000 they want for a 427 from AC Cars is a little too steep for me, and it aint road legal here - but it does have aluminium formed body - they also build another version (slower) for $160,000 with a CF body - but I can get 90-95% of the build quality for around $30-40k...

oldgixxer

I'm planning on building a FFR Cobra.After talking with alot of knowledgeable folks I decide on a small block Ford,probably s/c.Big block is great but upsets the handling with the extra 300lbs on the front end

stevebez

The FFR looks really good esp the CNC cut panels etc ... I have 3 problems .... I am in the UK ... our cars are RHD and I only have metric tools !!!

If they make a RHD and have metric fittings I think I'll be sold...!!!

DJE55

Look at a Superformance Cobra. They are owned by AC and have the best body and frame to go with. It's not a kit but a true replica. Meaning, you don't build the car. It comes painted and built. All you need to add is motor and trans. I had one and I can tell you NONE of the other Cobra's compared to that car. It is head and shoulders above the other KIT cars out there. For a motor, it has to be a Ford and it has to be a 427. Well, a stroked 427 at least. Good luck with your project. They are a blast!

FASN8N

I say stick with a Ford engine. A twin turbo 302 stroked to 331 would be nice

The build school would be a blast to attend before getting your hands dirty if you decide to build your own.

http://www.factoryfive.com/rdsterhome.html

stevebez

Thanks guys ....

I been thinking black and chrome only for colour scheme ... mbe the purists prefer blue... mbe midnight blue met...

So CF dashboard , Met black paint and fully chromed engine bay ...

Sheesh getting way ahead of myself here. One thing I wnat is a decnt suspension setup with 18" wheels ... DAX does this. Not sure about SPF....also dont know if they do RHD. Any other "kit" makers you can recommend will be appreciated .. btw the FFR guys are working on a rhd kit.

Midcont

i thought these guys made the best replica:
http://www.kirkhammotorsports.com/

Cylinder Head

iTrader: (1)

Satin black is the sex. I'm currently obsessed with that color. I'm sure you've seen the pics of the satin black SLR.

speedpeddler

As a builder of two FFR's and having a friend with a Superformance I have to agree. Apples and oranges. The FFR is easy and fun to build and the performance giggles for the buck can't be beat. But for a really nice Cobra replica the Superformance is light years ahead of the FFR in every way. About what you would expect between a home built car and a professionally built one.

As for engines...it isn't a Cobra if it doesn't have a Ford engine and anything over 500 hp is useless in these 2,000 lb cars. They are an absolute blast to drive. Like driving an adult sized shifter Kart on the street. Think, crotch rocket performance, thumping Harley like music from the side pipes and four wheels instead of two.

Think I'll go for a ride right now!

ChicagoX

I would agree with 'gixxer about the small block. With the ability to punch one out to over 400 cubes, you aren't losing much to the big-block in terms of motivation in such a light package.

500 small-block ponies would be enough for a great "B" road blast, then switch on the 125 shot at Santa Pod.

StealthAuto

Look around on SVTPerformance.com. There are some VERY knowledgeable Ford guys over there.

I myself think a fully built/forged 5.0 (302) or 4.6 (281) with a large turbo and some gears will be ideal. The gears will get you into boost quickly.

turbineexpert

THE ONLY ENGINE TO GO WITH IS the terminator engine. 4.6L 4V w/whipple or even original eaton supercharger. These are the engines out of the 03-04 SVT Cobras. Awesome. I have absolutely no complaints from mine. Super fast, super torquey, and super reliable. Just my two cents. Oh yeah, six speed tremec T-56.

stevebez

Looks like the best "kits" are (in decending order) ...

1. Kirkham (only because they use alu body) ~$80,000 mark complete
2. Superformance ~$50,000 complete (and they do a RHD) can anyone confirm this guide price?
3. FFR ~$20,000 when fully specced up (RHD in the works)
4. DAX ~$35,000 complete - with loads of self assembly and donor parts
5. Pilgrim ~$30,000 complete - v similar to DAX

Hmmm choices ... so far I think its Superformance ... but here in the UK they want ~$80,000 for a rolling chassis ... nuts!

You guys in the good 'ol USA have such cheap cars ... u really are v luckY!

Ok enuf from me on this now thanks for all your input. Time for me to make some decisions.

baldmike73

agree that Superformance would be the way to go and go with the 427. These newer 4.6L motors just don't have the same rumble as the 427. And when you pop the hood you want it to look old school american muscle. No need for s/c or tt set up as these cars weigh nothing. One thing to make sure you upgarde is the brakes and if you can swing it go with the true knock off wheels vs. look a likes.