comfort level for 6'4" driver

[able2ski]

Although I'm currrently kinda hoping to land a Shelby Mustang, I started my Shelby love affair with the classic Cobras. Never anticipating the financial resources for the real thing (or the nerve to risk wrecking it!), replica Cobras seem like the logical choice.

How comfortable are various replicas in terms of legroom? Particularly the Superformance versions?

Also, since I'm reasonably close to Olthoff Racing as a potential dealer, any feedback on their service would be appreciated.......I'm led to believe they have been "in the game" for some time and should know their stuff.

Most importantly though, let me know what a 6'4" guy has to expect in driving one of these beasts! Does the fun factor overshadow the discomfort? The seats alone offer no lumber support, but cramped knees and hot feet would only further spoil the experience.

Andrew

PS: any local leads on used Shelby Mustangs (any year) or Cobra replicas in the NC area within a $40-50K budget would be appreciated.

Thanks in advance!

PS: Glad to have found this resource............hopefully i'll have something to contribute of my own in the near future.

[Edley Rondinone]

Andrew 2Ski: I have a regular 90" wheelbase NAF Cobra, and I am 6'3"; kneeroom is a little tight, but I AM able wo work the pedals OK. The "fun factor", as you mentioned, FAR OUTWEIGHS what little discomfort I have encountered. Take some test-sittings in as many Cobras as you can find. Once you find one that "fits", take it for a test ride. Good Luck!

[BlackBDR]

Andrew,

One large reason for us buying a Backdraft Racing replica was its very comfortable. It has a 92" wheelbase which IMHO still looks fine (go to my album and you can be the judge). I'm 6'2" and fit and drive my BDR more comfortably than a Superformance or a Factory Five. I have seen big guys in both those makes however.

John

[flanker]

I second John's thoughts on Backdraft. I am 6'3" and have more room than i know what to do with in my BDR. my nephew is 6'5" and his feet barely touch the end of the foot box on the passenger side. Plus if you have that much scratch for a shelby mustang, you could build yourself one heck of a screaming BDR and still have plenty to take the misses on a great long vacation so she'll let you play with the toy

forever bitten
frank h

[Lowell W]

Andrew,

I'm 6'6" tall and a little over 200#. I looked at and sat in a bunch of Cobras before I bought my SPF. I'll admit, the BDR had more legroom but I really wanted to stay with a 90" WB car. The folks at Dynamic Motorsports altered the driver's seat for me prior to delivery and I had a local upholstery guy add some gel foam. Yeah, it's cozy in there, but I can drive well over an hour at a time before I need to get out and stretch. I took a road trip last May from Illinois to New Mexico and my enjoyment of being able to make the trip in a Cobra FAR outweighed any discomfort. I've driven the car over 10,000 miles in about 8 months.

Since you're near the Olthoffs, my advice would be to give them a call, tell them you're a tall guy and you'd like to come in and go for a test drive. Ask them to be sure, but I expect they have the same seat option as Dynamic. While you're there, ask them to put a top on a car so you can try getting in and out. I can easily get in and out of my car with the top on.

Look at and sit in all the Cobras you can find. Double Venom Spring Fling (do a search) is a great place to see all the different makes of Cobras and talk to the owners.

Sure there are more comfortable cars, but so what? I've WANTED a Cobra since 1966. For me being able to drive a Cobra, this car is PLENTY comfortable!!!

[trularin]

I'm 6'4" and I went with the Lonestar because of the ability to sit in comfort, without my head poking over the windshield.

Check them out at :
www.lonestarclassics.com

Just my $0.02

[RGINN]

Andrew, Good luck in your search. I'm 6'4" and weight ..well....alot. I fit fine in my SPF. Most of my height in my torso so the legs are fine but the windscreen is low. I routinely drive multiple hour trips in the cobra with only worn out face muscles (from grinning). The Olthoffs are great folks and they run a fine dealership. Try one out.

On the Shelby Mustang the best source is SAAC. The routinely publish Shelbys for sale. I found mine through word of mouth and bothered the owner until he finally got it out of storage and sold it to me. Best of luck in your search...I'm just down HWY 64 from you.

Rob

[dalola]

I agree with most of what has been said above.

I would also add Classic Roadster to the Foray. It is another stretched wheelbase car, and has lots of room. And their seats are some of the most comfortable of any. I am 6'5", and had plenty of leg room in my CR.

It's funny....I attempted some long trips, but the gas gauge always gave out before me!

Good luck!
~Dave

[Bear2001]

You may want to contact Randy Hunter at Hunter's Cobra
http://www.hunterscobrakits.homestead.com/index.html

He is located in Ocala, Florida

I am 6'6" & weigh i8n at 250. Randy was able to drop the floor pans and widen the footbox. He is currently producing at 90', 94" & 96" wheelbase.

It is a family business and they are great to deal with.

Regards
Bob

[ColoradoCobras.]

www.uniquemotorcars.com
If you go to page 2 of their FAQ's you will see a gentleman, Bob Evans who is 7'2" and a member of this forum.
Regards,
Don "Cobra Rookie and office dude" for S & S Automotive
aka ColoradoCobras.com

[Chuck Nickloy]

I have friend with an unadvertised as yet KR500. Original unrestored aprox 75K miles. If interested give me a call, and I'll put you in touch. 806-803-3766

Regards, Chuck

PS: Sit in a Premier Car, it's roomy too.