Used Superformance or New Backdraft from Vintage

[Ace23]

Just interested in hearing opinions.
*I will not race the car on a track, honestly I have a 600rwhp mustang cobra now that I've never done a burn out in.....I like to do roll-ons and just play around not buy tires
*I will not drive the car in the rain
*This will be a fair weather cruising car that will get beat on
*I'm OCD and it will be garage kept under a cover and wiped down after every drive......I took exceptionally good care of anything I buy
*I like power so it will be a 427 SBF or potentially a coyote as a longshot that could be blown in the future. Pretty sure the 427 just due to the cam and the nasty V8.

Basically might have the opportunity to get into a SPF build numbers high 1800's or a car from Vintage at very close dollar point before the BDR roller price increase. The SPF is exactly how I would build it.....427KC, TKO600 upgraded suspension, upgraded exhaust...very nice vehicle sorted well with 10K miles. The BDR would be a 427, TKO 600, no Willwood brake but a few nice features and it would be brand spanking new. So I guess assuming that Vintage builds a hell of a BDR car and the BDR cars having vastly improved over the past years.....What is the better buy if you were looking at jumping in a car turning the key and enjoying it. I'm not a period correct guy but I do love the SPF as its the only one I've really been in. Guess I'm asking what is the best buying decision. I expect to hear the SPF will hold it's value very well but what about a car that already has 10K miles that you plan on really driving. I know these questions have been asked In the past I just want to feel special and think I'm going to get different answers.
Thanks

[itstock]

The Backdrafts hold their value just as well as the Superformance. Both of them will hold their value. The Superformance will hold value as it's used and that's just what they do, and the new backdraft will take the initial hit but with the price increase will eventually rebound. So that isn't an issue.

Sort through your other threads. There is plenty of good information offered between the two cars. It took me a year or two of reading and learning before deciding what I wanted to do. I promise you the search function is worth it.

The only car that is a close comparison to the Backdraft is the Superformance. With the Superformance, you pay about 20% more for a "better closer to near show quality paint job". The body work and paint on the Superformance IS a bit better than the Backdrafts "near" show quality paint job. So for an extra $10-15k with the Superformance, you get a better paint job (there are also a couple options added in a base Superformance, so lets just say that the Superformance, option to option, is about $10k more for that paint job). You also get a much more accurate replica.

What you don't get is quite as good handling characteristics. The Backdraft, while not quite as accurate of a replica, is the better "performing" car.

As far as rattles/tightness/quality/problems, the Superformance and Backdraft are extremely close. I don't think anyone could be honest with themselves and claim that one is assembled at a higher quality than the other.

The Backdraft wins on performance and price. The Superformance wins on paint/body work quality and original accuracy.

Engine choice is a personal choice. I am of the opinion that IF resale is important, don't consider the Coyote. The overall price might not be effected, but you will limit the buyers market. My little carbed dart block 351w 427/TKO-600 is a nice streetable engine with 480rwhp. I would need the supercharged coyote or a coyote with lots of head/internal work to get that, and the price would be a bit more expensive, though not by much. For a reliable fuel injected engine, the Coyote is extremely tempting in regards to cost. It is NOT a substantially more expensive engine setup.

[Ace23]

Originally Posted by itstock

The Backdrafts hold their value just as well as the Superformance. Both of them will hold their value and actually follow inflation rather closely. So that isn't an issue.

Sort through your other threads. There is plenty of good information offered between the two cars.

I don't expect to buy anything and make money on it....especially a new build. There is just a consensus of individuals that hold the opinion that SPF cars hold their value very well. I'm not disagreeing one bit because the prices seem to dictate this I just seem to think Vintage offers a different spin on these cars with so much customization and motor platforms.....I believe they appeal to potentially younger owners or potentially a newer generation of cobra owners. This is purely a what is the best buy with what I'm looking to do with the car. It will not stay up in a garage with the intent of keeping low mileage to further increase its value. I guess this is why a brand new car is very tempting. You wouldn't have Willwood brakes or a heater but that's about all I can think of at the moment. I would NEVER use a top or windows so I don't even factor those in

[itstock]

If the Superformance is kinda sorta exactly what you want, and you don't plan on tracking the car, you will get a car that has already been sorted with better paint and closer to the original. Of course the Superformance is perfectly capable of still being tracked and doing so very well. And at the end of the day, you are buying another persons used car (which can be good as it has been sorted).

If you want a car that is brand spanking new (which also means potential growing pains), handles slightly better, and will truly be exactly what you want, then get the Backdraft. It comes with the expense of not having almost show quality paint like the Superformance, as it will be slightly less than near show quality. It also isn't as an exact of a replica.Of course most people will never tell the difference and think that the paint and body work are beautifully done. And lets be honest, they will still either know it is a "Shelby Cobra", or they will just think it's a cool car. The minor variations don't seem important to anyone other than the pure diehards.

Everything else can be assumed as equal (purchase price, fun factor, retaining value, coolness, etc).

[Ace23]

Originally Posted by itstock

If the Superformance is kinda sorta exactly what you want, and you don't plan on tracking the car, you will get a car that has already been sorted with better paint and closer to the original. Of course the Superformance is perfectly capable of still being tracked and doing so very well.

If you want a car that is brand spanking new, handles slightly better, and will truly be exactly what you want, then get the Backdraft. It comes with the expense of not having almost show quality paint like the Superformance, as it will be slightly less than near show quality. It also isn't as an exact of a replica.Of course most people will never tell the difference and think that the paint and body work are beautifully done. And lets be honest, they will still either know it is a "Shelby Cobra", or they will just think it's a cool car. The minor variations don't seem important to anyone other than the pure diehards.

Everything else can be assumed as equal (purchase price, fun factor, retaining value, coolness, etc).

Well said. I can only imagine the paint in the BDR is very nice......I'm not a paint expert but seems like 99% of the owners approve of it. I think in person the SPF looks great.....in pictures the BDR looks great. I would be either going to Vintage or seeing a late model BDR prior to pulling the trigger. No way I will spend this kind of money with seeing one and really looking into it.

[mln385]

Why not try this dealer they maybe closer to you Radical Roadsters of Texas

As for BDR vs SPF. Spf has better hardware and detail bdr has more interior room and wheelbase. Best way to compare is side by side if you can.
Good luck.

[madmaxx]

In the end both are great deals! That is why it's a tough decision. Is there any advantage of the used one already being titled? Some states easy some not. Who pays shipping on the BDR. Sometimes a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush. I would definetly want a heater in the BDR. I use mine Houston so I know you would use it where you are.

In the end whats 10k in the grand scheme of things, we probably all made that in the market today, just don't blow 10k every day, lol!!

Oh and if you have to take a loan don't buy either, wait till you have cash to buy outright.

[Ace23]

Originally Posted by mln385

Why not try this dealer they maybe closer to you Radical Roadsters of Texas

As for BDR vs SPF. Spf has better hardware and detail bdr has more interior room and wheelbase. Best way to compare is side by side if you can.
Good luck.

I appreciate the information. I have been talking to Vintage at this point and feel that's who I would deal with if I end up with a BDR car. I have nothing against going to Radical Roadsters I just wouldn't want to waste a dealers time but it may be an option to see a current BDR model that is being produced

[Grey 65]

If you go BDR and want a Coyote then Vintage is the place to buy.
If you go BDR and want a Keith Craft then Radical is the place to buy.
If you go BDR and want a Ford crate engine then Vintage or Radical is the place to buy.

Jay at Vintage and James at Radical are both great guys. Jay is on the forums all the time and that is a plus. I have James cell number and text him when I have a question and he responds quickly which is also a plus... In other words you can't go wrong with either shop, both guys will help you out no matter which you buy from..

Price on new BDR's goes up $4,000 on June 1st, so if you are seriously considering a BDR I would place order prior to the end of May if possible...

Kevin.....

[NewYorkGuy]

I think the best, smart decision is to buy a used Cobra (price between $35-$40K), drive it for a year, and if you're still lusting for more, go drop $$$ on a custom build or buy a roller and build it yourself. These cars don't have modern comforts and safety. Dont worry about manufacturer; they are all fakes. Build one to your own specs and desires. I am also looking into my first Cobra but I don't want to get stuck with a $70K new build and learn later that I am not a Cobra guy. Heck, if any owners want to lease their car for 6-8 months, PM me.

[Ace23]

Originally Posted by Grey 65

If you go BDR and want a Coyote then Vintage is the place to buy.
If you go BDR and want a Keith Craft then Radical is the place to buy.
If you go BDR and want a Ford crate engine then Vintage or Radical is the place to buy.

Jay at Vintage and James at Radical are both great guys. Jay is on the forums all the time and that is a plus. I have James cell number and text him when I have a question and he responds quickly which is also a plus... In other words you can't go wrong with either shop, both guys will help you out no matter which you buy from..

Price on new BDR's goes up $4,000 on June 1st, so if you are seriously considering a BDR I would place order prior to the end of May if possible...

Kevin.....

Trying to work a deal prior to the June 1st increase would be what I would do. I will not rush and make a mistake though.....just having that deadline keeps it on you mind a bit more than usual. I know they Coyote is the long term solution for me but I will have to do a SBF first go around. I think you would have to drive both to really know what you wanted. I just like the idea of great gas mileage, OEM injection and being able to make big power out of a coyote but it sure doesn't sound that great In the videos

[Ace23]

Originally Posted by madmaxx

In the end both are great deals! That is why it's a tough decision. Is there any advantage of the used one already being titled? Some states easy some not. Who pays shipping on the BDR. Sometimes a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush. I would definetly want a heater in the BDR. I use mine Houston so I know you would use it where you are.

In the end whats 10k in the grand scheme of things, we probably all made that in the market today, just don't blow 10k every day, lol!!

Oh and if you have to take a loan don't buy either, wait till you have cash to buy outright.

Good point on the heater or either heater seats. Destination included in the BDR price. I have the cash so I would not take a loan.....damn its hard to spend the cash though!

[buddyg]

Nothing against a BDR but I find it hard to believe they hold their value as well as a Superformance. I'm sure you would be happy with either but you have to decide if you want more originality or more of a custom car.

[itstock]

Originally Posted by buddyg

Nothing against a BDR but I find it hard to believe they hold their value as well as a Superformance. I'm sure you would be happy with either but you have to decide if you want more originality or more of a custom car.

I looked at used vs new for over a year. They hold prices about the same, and a little less than 5 years ago, you could argue that the backdraft was holding value better than the superformance. If we made a technical chart, it would probably be something like they both bottom out at or around 80 percent of the original price. The superformance might even be under that.

In 2011-12 a 5 year old backdraft was selling for as much and sometimes more than the original purchase price.

[vatdevil]

An older car will require a bit more maintenance. My SPF is almost 15 years old and have needed to replace/rebuild about every part with soft goods in them

[Dimis]

Originally Posted by buddyg

Nothing against a BDR but I find it hard to believe they hold their value as well as a Superformance. I'm sure you would be happy with either but you have to decide if you want more originality or more of a custom car.

If you think of it more a a case of ROI, they're most likely to be much the same.
In any case, judging from his replies, this doesn't seem to be a deciding factor for ACE23.

[madmaxx]

If you can get a coyote powered bdr for the same price as the used SPF I would swing to the BDR if u drive more than 5k miles per year. You will save $1k in fuel alone in the first year over the stroker and I imagine the drivability around town is tamer. If u drive 2k miles or less per year go stroked small block and enjoy the experience of a beast.

If it were me I would drive both and pick the nicer one regardless of manufacturer as they are both great cars. If u can't drive the bdr because it not built yet then if the SPF drives perfect go with it. With the used you see the paint, glass quality, characteritics and that is worth something before you commit.

As far as roi the SPF is fully depreciated, the bdr will drop 5k -10k and with all the deals bdr is mailing you will have a lot of competition when you sale. If you end up liking Cobras this won't be your last at your age. I went from bdr to SPF, I doubt you would go SPF to bdr. Probably SPF to SPF or kirkham.

[Dimis]

ACE23,

Judging solely by what you have said in the posts below - I'm go out on a limb and say you really want the BDR.

Follow my logic if you please....

Originally Posted by Ace23

*I'm OCD and it will be garage kept under a cover and wiped down after every drive......I took exceptionally good care of anything I buy

Only new will satisfy your desire here... I'm thinking a once you discover a scratch, worn part, or imperfection, it will bother you. More likely for this to happen on a 2nd hand car.

Originally Posted by Ace23

...I'm not a period correct guy...

Then the differences between an SPF and BDR wont bother you

Originally Posted by Ace23

.... I just seem to think Vintage offers a different spin on these cars with so much customization and motor platforms.....I believe they appeal to potentially younger owners or potentially a newer generation of cobra owners....

Look - you're already defending your purchase of a BDR
Perhaps you're just be a little nervous, knowing you'll lose a little $$ due to it having a new car sticker price. I wouldn't worry much about this. In my experience a price increase will buoy the 2nd hand car market. BDR are due to have one. Im sure you'll get in before 1st June

Originally Posted by Ace23

I guess this is why a brand new car is very tempting. You wouldn't have Willwood brakes or a heater but that's about all I can think of at the moment. I would NEVER use a top or windows so I don't even factor those in

Oops, more defending your imminent BDR purchase
Perhaps subconsciously you know it's what you want

Originally Posted by Ace23

I can only imagine the paint in the BDR is very nice......I'm not a paint expert but seems like 99% of the owners approve of it. I think in person the SPF looks great.....in pictures the BDR looks great.

There you go again...

Originally Posted by Ace23

I appreciate the information. I have been talking to Vintage at this point and feel that's who I would deal with if I end up with a BDR car.

I see a BDR from Vintage in your future

Originally Posted by Ace23

I just like the idea of great gas mileage, OEM injection and being able to make big power out of a coyote but it sure doesn't sound that great In the videos

With a coyote engine to boot.
The snarling exhaust can be fabricated in the pipes.


Truth be told, either is a great option. You can't lose.
Just follow your desires in the knowledge that one is not any more right for you than the other. Both are stellar cars and will serve you well.

The only bit of true advise I'll give is:

If you want a coyote, do it from the get go... It will cost so much more to swap later.

Also your desire for willwood brakes are misplaced - You:
a) can't see them with the wheels on, and
b) since by your own admission you're not a period guy... then blow them off for something bigger and better


Enjoy your hunt and good luck

[WardL]

Anytime you buy a vehicle new you lose a lot of money initially. I bought a SPF for $55k when the previous owner spent $85k to build it 3 years earlier. I haven't checked the numbers closely, but Cobra Country seems to have more higher priced SPFs than BDRs. I would love to see the actual data if someone has the history of prices. We are all so biased we see what we want to see....

[madmaxx]

Congrats, your car is a solid 60-65k car. Bet your glad you didn't buy new either SPF or BDR.

Originally Posted by WardL

Anytime you buy a vehicle new you lose a lot of money initially. I bought a SPF for $55k when the previous owner spent $85k to build it 3 years earlier. I haven't checked the numbers closely, but Cobra Country seems to have more higher priced SPFs than BDRs. I would love to see the actual data if someone has the history of prices. We are all so biased we see what we want to see....