New to the Cobra World

catt770 · #1 (**permalink**) 09-06-2007, 08:05 PM

Hello Everyone,

I just began researching Cobras a couple of weeks ago and want some advise from experience. I have already realized that I want a TKM (at least). I am not interested in building my own car. I am interested in something reliable that would be street driven but hold its own on the track. I have been told that a 351W with a tremec 5 speed and 3:55 gears would be perfect. My budget right now would be to stay at 40K or below and do not need a "perfect" replica. I am from CT and not sure of any Run and Gun opportunities although I have a couple of local manufacturers within driving distance. Any help, suggestions, or advice you could provide would be great. Thanks!

Sharroll Celby · #2 (**permalink**) 09-06-2007, 08:16 PM

I have the same setup (351W/Tremec 5-speed) but with 3.08 gears. I am happy with my combo, but am looking forward to a 3.55 gear set sometime in the future. Your >40K plan is very "doable", and I say "Go For IT!"

Also, read the thread about "New to the Cobra World...Have You Always Dreamed of Having a Cobra..." in the "ALL COBRA TALK" forum, just to make sure these cars are for YOU!

I absolutely LOVE my Cobra, and have almost 48,000 miles on my Cobra is about 5 1/2 years!

Ideally, if you can find an owner who will give you a ride for a few hours, so you get a "feel" for a Cobra, that might be best.

catt770 · #3 (**permalink**) 09-06-2007, 09:16 PM

I appreciate the response. I love the noise, raw feeling and looks of the car. I am OK mechanically and would be looking at a brand new crate engine. Any suggestions on manufacturers-companies? What about the Shell Valleys and Backdrafts?

Excaliber · #4 (**permalink**) 09-06-2007, 10:04 PM

If I had a budget of around $40K (which I did) I'd be looking for a used one (which I did) and buy it (which I did)!

Oh, get one UNDER $40K, because it's virtually CERTAIN you WILL spend several thousand more as time goes on making it 'your way'. Or, in my case, rebuilding the motor after you blow it up (which I did).

computerworks · #5 (**permalink**) 09-06-2007, 10:47 PM

Mod Note - moved to All Cobra Talk

fsstnotch · #6 (**permalink**) 09-06-2007, 11:17 PM

I agree with excaliber. check the for sale section for some good deals on used cobras.

If used isn't your thing and you want it to be new, hurricane, shell valley, BDR all sell a turn key minus car for about $28-29k. Have a look at some of the engine builders who sponsor the site. they have some pretty nice "cobra" motors that are reasonably priced.

I just put the deposit on my hurricane a couple weeks ago. I'm going to build mine but I'm going the exact direction as you, 351w, 5 spd, 3.55 gear. I was torn between shell valley and hurricane before i dove to the hurricane. Couldn't be happier so far! Mike always replies quickly to my emails and I recieved my assembly manual all the way in Iraq 1 week after I paid my deposit! Good people!