[400TT]

For your older option, the fact that Cobra kits in the USA are not production quality vehicles is where it becomes a bit more complicated.

Normally you would just need to address the following items on imported production vehicles: Headlights to RHD, Seatbelts to compliant lap/sash retractable, Amber Indicators etc.

But essentially you should consider your import to be an ICV that needs to comply with old ADR's. If you are importing a 1988 Cobra, it will need to comply with the relevant 1988 ADR's.

This is what you could be made to do:

* Test/Certification of all the fabricated components: Chassis, Side Intrusion, Seats etc.

* Test/Certification for emisisons: you will need an engine that complies with relevant ADR emissions, it must have all of it's emissions systems installed and operating correctly.

* Fit all the ADR compliance required parts usually missing on USA Cobra Kits: Headrests, Steering Lock, Demister, Windscreen Squirters, Reverse Light, suitable door locks, instrument dimmer etc.

* Meet noise requirements.

* If less than 30 years obviously a LHD -> RHD conversion. But just check whether the tunnel is offset, quite a few USA Cobra's have less footroom in the passenger side.

* Other problem areas: Seat mounts will not comply and you may need to fabricate an entire sub-assembly welded to chassis to support seats. Same goes for seatbelt mounts.

In SA you will also need to get the car inspected by Regency Park.

I've been through this before for an old imported Cobra kit in a different state.

Both of your options are not for the faint hearted. Good luck with it.