new vs used Superformance

[wc3154]

I need some advice regarding buying used vs new Superformance. The advantages as I see them:

new- obvious; new car-know exactly what you are getting and can put together what you want (within budget constraints).

used- lower cost, especially right now. Have seen several cars advertised in low 40's with the engine I would prefer (351W).

The thing I don't know is what improvements SPF has made in the last 2-3 years. Is the suspension, body etc. basically the same or have they made any significant changes? I am looking for a car for street driving, not racing. Any help would be appreciated.

[mikiec]

Try here to see the differences in SPF model numbers:

http://performanceunlimited.com/supe.../features.html

Mike

[G.R.]

I have an '01-- bodies have no changes from early ones--the footwells have been changed and suspension has been upgraded somewhat --

I think a new SPF is about 37k(Base roller) you can add options, passenger rollbar, shock upgrades, brake upgrades, glove box, roadster bumpers/nudge bars, custom color/stripes w/wo roundels, floor mats, extingusher, on and on--

Figure another 15k + for your engine/trans--depends if you do the build/ install somewhat--and engine choice

I have a 392 stroker--mild, fast enough for me, a good street ride, 17K+w/trans and install---

There are some good buys on any Cobra out there right now--I liked the quality of the SPF and I don't think you could go wrong buying one---but I'm ibased


if I'd gone with a 351W

[wc3154]

Mike - thanks; I had not run across that info anywhere.

[wc3154]

Gary - new SPF is listed at 36,900 right now and I am seeing figures ranging from about 9k to over 20k for engine & trans, depending on engine choice & whether it is installed or do it yourself. Regarding SPF, I have seen some & talked to owners and not found anyone that was not happy with their choice. The used cars I am considering are serial #'s over 700+/- . I don't think I can go wrong either way. Your post ends with " if i'd gone with a 351W" - is there more? I would appreciate advice regarding a straight 351 vs stroker.

[bnewell]

When I ordered my new SPF in November of 2001 the used cobra prices were not what they are today. If I remember correctly, the used SPF's were high 40's to low 50's.........a little different in todays market.

With that in mind, it was a better deal for me to buy new and have the engine built the way that I wanted it and not buy into someone elses problems (if there were any). Plus the peace of mind knowing that I had a warranty on the car and engine package.

If I were to buy now I would have to think very serious about a used SPF over a new one. That 14 - 16 grand savings is a lot of coin and would pay for a lot of upgrades that you may want to do to a used one.

Anyway you look at it, the SPF is an awesome car, and with the engine being the heart of it all, I would make sure that the engine is sound and came from a reputable engine builder.



Brian

[BamaBrett]

I've been researching this very subject of used versus new.

I've spoken with many Superformance owners who bought their cars new, including some who just sold their cars. Here are my conclusions:

1) It is a BUYER'S market for Superformance cars. Look at the low prices. That should convince you.

2) New Superformance cars have their quirks that require "sorting out." That's fine if you don't mind visits to your mechanic, or doing the work yourself if you are so inclined. A USED SPF car should be "sorted out" when you purchase it. The previous owner has done the work for you. One guy told me about three Smith's gauges failing within six weeks. That means three visits to your shop, or dealer if you're close enough.

3) Most USED SPF cars have extremely low miles. You are pretty much getting a new car.

4) Most SPF cars on the road today have all the popular upgrades. Like Willwood brakes, bigger footwell, etc. The owner will know what upgrades they have on the car. Just ask.

5) Many USED cars have owner/dealer upgrades. I know the Olthoff's (dealer in NC) are famous for adding performance upgrades. You may have heard about them.

6) The engine packages in USED SPF's cover the gamit. From 302, to 351, small block strokers, and big blocks including 460-based and the 427/428 FE's. Again, check the used market for a while and you'll see what I mean. SPF's seem to come in all flavors.

7) CobraCountry.com will give you a good "feel" for the used SPF market. I check it regularly.

8) To me, owning a "new" car has never been a big deal to me. Once you drive any new car home, it's used. I'd rather let the original owner take the biggest hit on depreciation. There's nothing wrong with owning a beautiful car, and saving thousands of $$$$ to boot.

Y'all take it easy now, Brett

[G.R.]

wc
Yes that meant I could've probably put another 5k+ into a 351 engine--everyone wants a 351w for a sb Ford--they seem to be very pricey to obtain and build (at least here)

Getting to the point I really couldn't justify it then---each to their own I guess

The used SPF's are a bargain now--mine was about 37.5k+ w/ options, roller--Have close to 56 k in it, could maybe sell in the 40k range in todays market--a lot of guys have a lot more invested

[frankym]

these are all good points. another thing to consider is the requirements from your state for registering the vehicle. With the purchase of any new (unregistered) replica, you'll have to jump through some hoops to get it registered. The used (registered) cars have already been approved. Even when you consider the depreciation of a new SPF or previously purchased SPF, the decline is small. Also, I have heard that the roller will be due for a price increase at some point, and that's always going up anyways. I think the first SPF rollers were around 33k? but I am not certain. but if you buy used (now) and hold it for 2 years, make some upgrades/improvements, you won't lose much if anything.

[bnewell]

wc3154 ~ frankym makes a very good point about registration and most states are different. Being from Ohio I can tell you that it was a piece of cake. I just made an appointment with my local Highway Patrol Inspection Station and the whole process took about 45 minutes + another 45+ minutes just shooting the sh!t about the car.

Brian

[wc3154]

yes - the registration headaches are something I have thought about as being in favor of buying used; I live in Colorado and have not yet checked into what is involved here. If anyone knows, let me know. By the way, thanks to everyone for the good advice.

[G.R.]

wc--where abouts in CO?--former CO native myself
You probably won't have a big problem registering there--maybe if you are in a "smog" county--CO countys were fairly easy to register street/hot rods/kit cars, 6/7 years ago--they hadn't "californicated" it then(now?)--though I never had to register one in the Denver/Boulder area--
I plan on being in the area for a few days after the Fling--visting family/friends etc before coming back here---

[frankym]

registration pains will vary by state, but also, the rules are different as far as vehicle class, most folks want the older year registration for inspection purposes and ease of transferability. Many states force you to be the manufacturer and then apply for the special construction vehicle status.

[wc3154]

Gary--I live in the Denver area, so the car has to pass emission standards, but not current standards, depending on the engine used. I think it would also have to pass a state patrol inspection which is what I don't know much about. Where did you live when you were here? Going to Bainbridge Island isn't too bad - I've been there, nice area. Hope you enjoy your visit here-send me a message when you will be here.

[G.R.]

wc
State Patrol inspections are fairly simple, brakes , lighting, tire tread,windshield wipers, seat belts etc.--smog is an issue, ie: smog pumps on post '66 engines--although a well tuned engine can/will pass --

I bought a '27 T roadster kit car project, partially finished, and put a '80 Chev 350 in it--passed all inspections---the SP inspection was the easiest--it was a typical street rod--the inspector thought it was cool--The smog passed w/ no problem--never finished the T out just drove it around then sold it--CO was pretty easy--BTW the guy that bought it lived in Aurora--this was in '90






Impressed someone from CO knows where BI is

[khall]

wc3154,
For registration/licensing information in CO check out the forum on the Mile High Cobra Club web site.
http://www.milehicobraclub.com/
If you live in the front range area we have two events this weekend. We will be at Bandimere Speedway Friday night for the Club Clash. Lots of tire kicking between heats. We also dominate the OSP class in SCCA Solo II. We will be defending our honor on Sunday at the World Arena in Colorado Springs

[jdspencer]

I am thinking about selling my SPF, stroked 351 (392ci), 4K miles, black w/titanium stripes, never seen rain.