Quote:
Originally Posted by Large Arbor
Paint - While expensive, would not be the most expensive item on mine. The engine would win that category
Phil
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Agreed, Phil. Most who are new to the search for a Cobra do not realize the importance of an "accurate" engine.
GT11, in that respect I would suggest that you add an issue to your "must have" list...the engine really SHOULD be an FE. As you well know, there were two different body styles (not counting the Daytona Cobras.....have you considered one of those?), the "289" body style and the "427" body style. From the items in which you have expressed interest, it appears you are in the market for one of the 427 body style replicas.
So...and this is coming from someone with a 427 body that has a small block in it...if you want to be able to sell at some point (and, having gone through 50 cars in your life, IMHO that possibility is pretty high), you will have MUCH better luck not only getting the car sold but also getting the $$ you want for it if it is equipped with an FE engine.
I bought mine with a small block because I was not interested in brute force and originality as much as drivability, reliability, and handling. I am happy with all of those issues in what I have; what I am NOT happy with is the body style. I've always been a fan of the "289 FIA" model and if I were going to build one for myself I'd definitely go for that.
There are those on this forum for whom only an FE engine is acceptable. Perhaps they are just purists, or perhaps they know that having an FE engine in a 427 body style exponentially increases the chances of getting their asking price.
You seem like a "well-seasoned", performance oriented buyer with a good grasp on what you want. I ask this with all sincerity...have you driven a Cobra much? I'll never forget the first time mine swapped ends on me...it was totally unexpected and resulted in the need for a new rear bumper. They do not drive like any performance car I have ever owned; perhaps after you've driven one (you said you had seat time in the plans) you'll have a better idea about what it is you want.
At any rate...IMHO...the 427 body style seems to be the most popular and if you have an FE engine in that body style the "originality" aspect adds to the chances you can sell at your asking price when (not "IF", as you even admit to having gone through 50 cars so far) you want to sell it.
Just beware that the 427, while a "thin-wall casting" engine, is physically large, heavy (which makes for a front-heavy car when you put one into a lightweight, short wheelbase car like the Cobra, with predictable effects on handling), and rather finicky about maintenance (they seem to leak a LOT of
oil) and rebuilds (getting the valve-train right seems particularly problematic)...but it's the ticket to getting a good price when you want to sell.
Great thread! It's all about the due-diligence...although with you I get the idea that it's not ALL about that, it's equally about getting a good deal.
Wishing you the best of luck...will be following this thread to see how it works out for you!
Cheers!
Dugly
