Which is the best cobra manufacturer?

[OnyxRider]

Originally Posted by REAL 1

Tommy: let's review.
1. The continuation Cobras are genuine Shelby Cobras. Fact.
2. No other manufacturer may represent or call their products "Cobras" or Shelby Cobras. Fact.
3. SAAC is the worlds leading authority on Cobras. Fact.
4. A major purpose of the Registry is to identify, catalog Cobras and to establish definitions defining what cars are considered by SAAC authentic "Cobras". Fact.

Your suppositions as why SAAC included some cars and not others remains your personal suppositions....to which you are entitled to have. They specifically and expressly provide definitions as to replica/kit vs. Cobras. You may not like their definitions and position but there you have it. I just happen to agree with them.

I said nothing about collectibility. That's a different discussion. However there is no doubt in my mind that Shelby continuation Cobras have a far better shot at being collectible than replicas and are more desirable finances permitting. That's MY Humble opinion to which I am entitled.

OMG he's at it again!! I thought I clearly showed you what you own by comparing real drum kits, replica guitars and updated classics.

Why don't you just tell everyone you are getting a 4.2% commission for every registry sold, that's why you always mention it.

I'm stepping out of this and will set-up a thread of Real1 vs FordRacing & the rest.

[computerworks]

Originally Posted by OnyxRider

I'm stepping out of this and will set-up a thread of Real1 vs FordRacing & the rest.

Not a real good idea...

(but I know you are kidding...)


ron
ClubCobra Moderator

[Jamo]

I don't know...might be fun to watch.

[Wbulk]

My better judgment tells me to stay out of this one but what the heck. I think it is understood by most that “legally” the Shelby Company is the only one that can call their cars a Cobra. In reality this car is so unique that the majority of replica owners, who are the vast majority, accept that a cobra is a broad range of cars built by many companies to varying degrees of authenticity and quality, and the word cobra has evolved to mean a look that closely resembles those original cars built in the 60s. I think that includes Shelby cars built after the 60s. If you go to the store and see those toy cars and see one that looks like a cobra, you tell your kids it is a cobra. For the most part the vast majority of replica owners say that their car is a cobra replica. Depending on the brand and builder it may be better than an original. I have a friend that has driven a wide variety of top end cars including originals and I was told the originals were not very good.

I think it is understandable that the owners of the brand name want to keep the lines clear. After all it’s all about protecting the investment. The reality is the replicas is what has kept the cobra in the publics eye and is the primary cause of the original cars great increase is value along with other replicas like Kirkhams and other top end brands to varying degrees. In my opinion original owners owe Dave Smith of FF a major debt of gratitude. If not for him, and his sales of 8,000 plus cobra replicas those original cars would not have increased so much in value.

From the way the OP asked the question it was opened to all brands, original or not, which tends to corroborate what I believe most have come to accept that a cobra is a cobra, then there are originals and the there are replicas.

I am sad that there was no attempt by anyone to give some information as to why one brand is better than another. No discussion of body lines, engineering, handling, or any of the things that really matters. Maybe no one here knows, it just comes down to what they own. I am lucky enough to live by Kirkhams plant but I do not own one but have ridden in them. I go there a few times a year to walk around the plant and take in the art and beauty of their engineering. There is no better cobra today, original, continuation, or replica. Not even mine that I built.

[fordracing65]

Originally Posted by Wbulk

My better judgment tells me to stay out of this one but what the heck. I think it is understood by most that “legally” the Shelby Company is the only one that can call their cars a Cobra. In reality this car is so unique that the majority of replica owners, who are the vast majority, accept that a cobra is a broad range of cars built by many companies to varying degrees of authenticity and quality, and the word cobra has evolved to mean a look that closely resembles those original cars built in the 60s. I think that includes Shelby cars built after the 60s. If you go to the store and see those toy cars and see one that looks like a cobra, you tell your kids it is a cobra. For the most part the vast majority of replica owners say that their car is a cobra replica. Depending on the brand and builder it may be better than an original. I have a friend that has driven a wide variety of top end cars including originals and I was told the originals were not very good.

I think it is understandable that the owners of the brand name want to keep the lines clear. After all it’s all about protecting the investment. The reality is the replicas is what has keep the cobra in the publics eye and is the primary cause of the original cars great increase is value along with other replicas like Kirkhams and other top end brands to varying degrees. In my opinion original owners owe Dave Smith of FF a major debt of gratitude. If not for him, and his sales of 8,000 plus cobra replicas those original cars would not have increased so much in value.

From the way the OP asked the question it was opened to all brands, original or not, which tends to corroborate what I believe most have come to accept that a cobra is a cobra, then there are originals and the there are replicas.

I am sad that there was no attempt by anyone to give some information as to why one brand is better that another. No discussion of body lines, engineering, handling, or any of the things that really matters. Maybe no one here knows, it just comes down to what they own. I am lucky enough to live by Kirkhams plant but I do not own one but have ridden in them. I go there a few times a year to walk around the plant and take in the art and beauty of their engineering. There is no better cobra today, original, continuation, or replica. Not even mine that I built.

Just what I said but better, Kirkham, no need to explain, best quality, best service, did I mention best quality...

[computerworks]

Originally Posted by Jamo

I don't know...might be fun to watch.

For a very, very short time...maybe.

[OnyxRider]

Originally Posted by Jamo

I don't know...might be fun to watch.

Nah when I found out someone had an Excalibur(not the sword) I gave up the idea. It's like he has the same prepared statement ready to post at every chance.

[David Kirkham]

Who makes the best Cobra/replica/Hot Rod?

The guy who makes it, that's who. I love all brand and makes. I am thrilled when I see someone (like Wayne Bulkley--above) come into our shop wanting to make his ride better/safer/faster. They come in with dreams. They come in with ideas to solve a problem. They come in wanting to learn. They are thinking, they are engaged. Rarely do I see an actually owner who does crummy work on his ride. They do the best they know how and are always looking to make things better.

Even our own cars can be improved upon, no doubt. I will never forget when I saw what Pat Buckley had done to one of "our" cars. He went nuts and brushed it with 400 grit. I told him he was nuts. When I saw it I was stunned. He raised the bar and we followed.

When I went to FFR's factory Dave and Mark Smith showed us everything--even their top secret cars. They opened their entire shop to us. They shared their dreams and visions. They are great guys. Their enthusiasm is hard to match. We learned from them in our production techniques (hey, they know something after making a zillion cars).

I love whoever's ride I happen to be driving

David

[REAL 1]

Originally Posted by Wbulk

My better judgment tells me to stay out of this one but what the heck. I think it is understood by most that “legally” the Shelby Company is the only one that can call their cars a Cobra. In reality this car is so unique that the majority of replica owners, who are the vast majority, accept that a cobra is a broad range of cars built by many companies to varying degrees of authenticity and quality, and the word cobra has evolved to mean a look that closely resembles those original cars built in the 60s. I think that includes Shelby cars built after the 60s. If you go to the store and see those toy cars and see one that looks like a cobra, you tell your kids it is a cobra. For the most part the vast majority of replica owners say that their car is a cobra replica. Depending on the brand and builder it may be better than an original. I have a friend that has driven a wide variety of top end cars including originals and I was told the originals were not very good.

I think it is understandable that the owners of the brand name want to keep the lines clear. After all it’s all about protecting the investment. The reality is the replicas is what has kept the cobra in the publics eye and is the primary cause of the original cars great increase is value along with other replicas like Kirkhams and other top end brands to varying degrees. In my opinion original owners owe Dave Smith of FF a major debt of gratitude. If not for him, and his sales of 8,000 plus cobra replicas those original cars would not have increased so much in value.

From the way the OP asked the question it was opened to all brands, original or not, which tends to corroborate what I believe most have come to accept that a cobra is a cobra, then there are originals and the there are replicas.

I am sad that there was no attempt by anyone to give some information as to why one brand is better than another. No discussion of body lines, engineering, handling, or any of the things that really matters. Maybe no one here knows, it just comes down to what they own. I am lucky enough to live by Kirkhams plant but I do not own one but have ridden in them. I go there a few times a year to walk around the plant and take in the art and beauty of their engineering. There is no better cobra today, original, continuation, or replica. Not even mine that I built.

Great post.

The Registry dicusses all you have mentioned in reaching the positions it reaches.

Also, if you review my last post I did provide some comparisons between the ERA and the others.

Onyxrider: while I appreciate your efforts to explain to me what I own I am way ahead of you as to what it is I own. I don 't need analogies using musical instruments. I just look at my MSO and the World Registry and it's just that simple.

As to me vs. Fordracing and others you misconstrue the quarrel. I am merely the messenger but I am happy to take on all comers in a debate. I'll just bring my MSO and my authoritative text and they can bring their authoritative text that supports their position and have it out. No problem.

Btw: Is my PDK maple shell kit considered a DW?

[MJJ]

Originally Posted by David Kirkham

Who makes the best Cobra/replica/Hot Rod?

The guy who makes it, that's who. I love all brand and makes. I am thrilled when I see someone (like Wayne Bulkley--above) come into our shop wanting to make his ride better/safer/faster. They come in with dreams. They come in with ideas to solve a problem. They come in wanting to learn. They are thinking, they are engaged. Rarely do I see an actually owner who does crummy work on his ride. They do the best they know how and are always looking to make things better.

Even our own cars can be improved upon, no doubt. I will never forget when I saw what Pat Buckley had done to one of "our" cars. He went nuts and brushed it with 400 grit. I told him he was nuts. When I saw it I was stunned. He raised the bar and we followed.

When I went to FFR's factory Dave and Mark Smith showed us everything--even their top secret cars. They opened their entire shop to us. They shared their dreams and visions. They are great guys. Their enthusiasm is hard to match. We learned from them in our production techniques (hey, they know something after making a zillion cars).

I love whoever's ride I happen to be driving

David

David:

I am in the market for my first cobra. I can't justify needing a Kirkham at this point as I already have 2 very nice weekend cars,....But I sure want one. You are a class act.

Someday I will own a Kirkham. Just may not be my first cobra.

Tag

[calSRQ]

Originally Posted by MJJ

David:

I am in the market for my first cobra. I can't justify needing a Kirkham at this point as I already have 2 very nice weekend cars,....But I sure want one. You are a class act.

Someday I will own a Kirkham. Just may not be my first cobra.

Tag

Second that....I have a FFR that the original builder did an insane job on. Recently went to a cars and coffee that had several cobras - ERA, SPF, and Kirkham. Must have had a dozen people put mine at the head of the pack (though mine is clearly more of a show car not track) BUT- I'd love to upgrade to Kirkham, and will at some point. Being new to the community really appreciate all of David's posts and support. I guess mfg comparisons gives all of us lucky enough to have one of the coolest cars on the planet something else to dream about.....

[WardL]

I haven't read all the posts here but pretty sure Superformance is the only replica licensed by Shelby. Some of the stated "FACTS" above aren't necessarily so. Everyone get's to choose their "best manufacturer" when they buy the Cobra of their dreams. You are a little opinionated if you think the Cobra you have is the best Cobra for you and everyone else too.

[fordracing65]

Originally Posted by David Kirkham

Who makes the best Cobra/replica/Hot Rod?

The guy who makes it, that's who. I love all brand and makes. I am thrilled when I see someone (like Wayne Bulkley--above) come into our shop wanting to make his ride better/safer/faster. They come in with dreams. They come in with ideas to solve a problem. They come in wanting to learn. They are thinking, they are engaged. Rarely do I see an actually owner who does crummy work on his ride. They do the best they know how and are always looking to make things better.

Even our own cars can be improved upon, no doubt. I will never forget when I saw what Pat Buckley had done to one of "our" cars. He went nuts and brushed it with 400 grit. I told him he was nuts. When I saw it I was stunned. He raised the bar and we followed.

When I went to FFR's factory Dave and Mark Smith showed us everything--even their top secret cars. They opened their entire shop to us. They shared their dreams and visions. They are great guys. Their enthusiasm is hard to match. We learned from them in our production techniques (hey, they know something after making a zillion cars).

I love whoever's ride I happen to be driving

David

I disagree completely. while all Cobras have their positive points, and they all can be built to amazing specs, only a Kirkham starts out as car that every part is top notch, where no corners are cut, I had a Superformance that was awesome but it wasn't a Kirkham, I have built Factory 5 cars, probably one of the best chassis in the business, but no where near the quality of a Kirkham, that's why I bought one, I wanted the best and feel I got the best.. No disrespect to anyone's cars, there all cool, even the overpriced CSX car...

[REAL 1]

Originally Posted by fordracing65

I disagree completely. while all Cobras have their positive points, and they all can be built to amazing specs, only a Kirkham starts out as car that every part is top notch, where no corners are cut, I had a Superformance that was awesome but it wasn't a Kirkham, I have built Factory 5 cars, probably one of the best chassis in the business, but no where near the quality of a Kirkham, that's why I bought one, I wanted the best and feel I got the best.. No disrespect to anyone's cars, there all cool, even the overpriced CSX car...

More juvenile comments intended to insult while while prefaced with the hollow phrase " No disrespect". ouch!

"best"is a relative term depending on the buyers criteria. Based on those criteria Kirkham could be at the bottom of the list.

What is "overpriced" is determined by the market not by ones self serving demeaning comments. In many cases the "overpriced" barbs and continual put downs help one feel better when the "over priced" item is also out of reach to those casting those comments. That wouldn't be you of course.

Cheers

[BMK]

Real1

Mmmm... Maybe just maybe ... ...you need to take a drive in your car. You seem to get too involved in debating a lost case.

Unless it is 'Pro Bono' your wasting your time in this non win case...

... as I said.. ...maybe a waste of time so take that drive..

[fordracing65]

Originally Posted by REAL 1

More juvenile comments intended to insult while while prefaced with the hollow phrase " No disrespect". ouch!

"best"is a relative term depending on the buyers criteria. Based on those criteria Kirkham could be at the bottom of the list.

What is "overpriced" is determined by the market not by ones self serving demeaning comments. In many cases the "overpriced" barbs and continual put downs help one feel better when the "over priced" item is also out of reach to those casting those comments. That wouldn't be you of course.

Cheers

It costs a certain amount to produce a car so it's not all profit for the manufactorer, hence a factory 5 cost less than a Kirkham because the parts are not of equal, with a csx to prove my point the cars price as a roller does not equal the mark ups of the other car manufactorors, you quoted my post where I say all cobras are awesome just some charge more, example Honda accord vs a Mercedes 350, same class car, I drive a Honda but its not a Mercedes, the benz costs more because the quality of parts is better, that's not to say an ERA for example is not a great car and priced accordingly, I think you get more for your money buying a Kirkham, it's my opinion, this is an opinion site, right, REAL1 don't put words in my mouth where I have bad mouthed another ones car, even your car is awesome, just in my opinion way overpriced, deal with it...

[fordracing65]

REAL1, can you give me a reason why Kirkham is not the best Cobra Manufacturer?

[Jamo]

Originally Posted by Jamo

I don't know...might be fun to watch.

I may have been a touch wrong.

[fordracing65]

Originally Posted by Jamo

I may have been a touch wrong.

No, your right...

[REAL 1]

Originally Posted by jamo

i may have been a touch wrong.

Now that's funny. LOL