Quote:
Originally Posted by twobjshelbys
Like he said, you can't. The "colossal" ramifications are why the word "Cobra" appears on Cobras from Shelby American, and no one elses. Like I said, several tried and lost. Shelby lost the "trade dress" (look and feel) but Ford still owns the Cobra trademark. Factory Five lost, Superformance (Hi Tech) entered into a license agreement although I don't think they use "Cobra" in the description of the car.
Everyone uses the term "Cobra" colloquially to refer to the cars, much like people use the term Crescent Wrench (trademarked) as the generic term for an adjustable wrench or "Kleenex" for tissues. The USPTO has declared that such usages do not diminish the owners rights.
It is an urban legend/old wives tale that Shelby sold the Cobra trademark to Ford for $1. It is Ford that enforces the use. They have lots of lawyers.
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Agreed, updated reply to CompClassics for accuracy ...
... you stated that enthusiasts with Replicas 'sign-in' to car events and shows with; Cobra, 427 Cobra, Shelby Cobra etc. which is dishonest. Agreed, if everybody was to be honest the sign-in roster would have; SPF Replica, ERA Replica etc. As for the Kirkhams, maybe Kirkham Cobra Replica is acceptable due to the symbiotic relationship? For the Shelby CSX4000/6000 cars you would see Shelby Cobra + some discriminator (like what's on the MSO "Component Vehicle") so as to separate themselves from the Originals. Only Originals can sign-in with Shelby 289/427 Cobra or something similar (with no additional qualifier required).
... if you are going to be honest about your "Replica" or "Shelby Cobra".
Nice rabbit-hole excursion Paul F.