[HowardV]

Thank you all for your responses. Unfortunately, I have forgotten 90% of what I learned in auto shop back in high school 20 years ago :-) I don't have the technical abilities or have the proper garage to assemble my own from kit. Nor the time!

I think I'll take the advice of getting a used one built by a reputable manufacturer that has already been registered in CA. I'm sure there are many competent individuals out there who have built their own, but my problem is recognizing which ones are put together well. And off hand, I don't know of any mechanics who know about these cars to help me rate them.

I don't want to spend over $30K. I'm not sure if this is enough for a used Cobra built by a reputable manufacturer. Horsepower isn't an issue for me, anything with 350+ horses is enough. This will not be used on tracks, just weekend cruises for fun. I really would like to have at least power brakes - power assisted steering is a major plus. And it has to be a manual tranny.

And if anyone is interested, I'm selling my 2000 Mustang GT convertible for this Cobra. My Mustang is black/black with all options in the book - mint condition - no scratches or door dents. So if anyone wants to consider partial trade + cash (my cash of course), I'm up for it. The Mustang is a great daily driver. I have pics if anyone is interested (but I doubt any Cobra lover will settle for a Mustang!).

Thanks for all the advice.

Howard