[grumpy]

PCC,

While some would agree with the article, one needs to stand off and look at how the US DMV's of the States view the building process along with how they are classed for position by the "show judges classes" (concours/events), and SAAC/Registry classifications for a AC/COBRA.

With the original AC COBRA as a reference point, the only true COBRA, then we tend to position our cars as to the closeness of the original in detailing. Most that have more authentic detailing tend to take offense at MIATA drivers with a COBRA nose at "compaing" that COBRA to their very 90% original detailed COBRA.

How do you feel, isn't the fella in the HOLDEN with the COBRA hood scoop and COBRA decals with a FORD 302 and "COBRA" valve covers just as much a COBRA as yours, and be placed by youat the "cruise ins, car shows, etc.?

By most states (in the US) governing rules would have a Corvette frame/susp, 440 MOPAR engine, Tremec transmissioned, Ford 9" Differential, Fiberglassed 96" wheel base JOE psuedo COBRA body and fiberglass inner panels, classed LEGALLY as a Corvette on the Title and registration process, NOT A COBRA. Other states used the "custom assembled", "specialty built", home built" or similar monikers to title the car with fabricated frames.

I really think it is just a "term" used to "simplify" the type of car it actually is. The point/issue changes when anyone notes that their COBRA is "JUST LIKE THE ORIGINAL", then distinctions are made as to the originality, and therein lies the flap that has insued for years.

Many have attempted to set up a guideline on terms for the application (including SAAC), no one pays attention. I tend to go for ORIGINALITY based on the AC COBRA, as do most, but some buyers are lured into buying a COBRA based on comments by individuals or the seller/manufacturer that is "just like the original" or a "replica" of the original, all the time knowing it only looks like an original AC COBRA. It's the outright misrepresentation made by some that boils most of the Club Cobra members, not comment from a newcomer COBRAphile, and they are taken to task here

That being the case, you take it from there, we all love COBRAs and tend to call them all COBRAs, and tend not calling them kits, replicas, rebodied, mustangs, or whatever actually applies.

Drive em and show them off, whether built in your basement or by AC CARS, Ltd. they are a hoot and a joy to own over any of the 80% of the cars out there!

grumpy