[NeedAntiVenom]

Saint,

You may find a highly modified motor gets a little balky at low revs too, with a 2400 pound car with lots of rubber you may end up with a real handful on the street. If you can, try one to get a feel for what HP your comfortable with.

Even with a mild motor, a Cobra will put over 3000 foot pounds of torque at the rear wheels in first gear, (3:1 first gear ratio, 3:54 differential ratio, ~13" tire radius) and 1000 foot pounds or more in 4th gear. Getting the tires to stick is a challenge - sounds like fun until you poke the loud pedal a little too much in a corner.

I agree with Casaleenie and Excaliber, focus on handling more than HP. HP will get you into trouble, handling will get you out. 400 HP is more than most mortals can handle in a car this light. If you need more power later, its usually easier than improving the handling.

Best of luck in building your Cobra,

Jim