Best options for Tall drivers

[Globey15]

Hi All,

New to the forum and just taking initial steps toward getting a Cobra replica.

Know nothing about the various types out there and will read through previous posts in due course but initially I'm keen to know if there are any brands that cater to taller drivers better than others - I'm 6'6" and most of it in the legs!

Cheers
Andrew

[Unique427]

Originally Posted by Globey15

Hi All,

New to the forum and just taking initial steps toward getting a Cobra replica.

Know nothing about the various types out there and will read through previous posts in due course but initially I'm keen to know if there are any brands that cater to taller drivers better than others - I'm 6'6" and most of it in the legs!

Cheers
Andrew

Backdraft Cobra "Big and Tall" Edition.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5yhlm7jyayU

[Timinator]

Everett Morrison 96" long wheelbase cars have a lot of room, bigger foot well too.

[C5GTO]

I'm 6'5" (most of it legs) and I've had a Classic Roadsters, 94.5 wheel base for over 20 years and about 50,000 miles. It's worked great for me.

[twobjshelbys]

OP is apparently in Australia (from the posting of this in the AU area) so his choices are limited and different from US suppliers.

[xb-60]

Greetings and welcome to the forum, Globey15

Just co-incidentally, there is a very recent post on this forum discussing the same issues you have.
See Cobra for tall man

As mentioned above, your choices with what is available here in Australia are limited. Importing a car or kit from USA is challenging.

Have you contacted the NSW Cobra Club for further information? They would be a great local, and relevant, resource for you. To be able to sit in different cars would provide information that is priceless.

Good luck, and keep us informed.


Cheers!
Glen

[twobjshelbys]

Originally Posted by xb-60

To be able to sit in different cars would provide information that is priceless.

This is a key piece of advice. I always advise people to sit in any car they are considering. In some cases, you can generalize from the same make/model but not always. Even the originals weren't all the same.

[eschaider]

Surgical intervention ? ...


Ed

[Buzz]

If you intend to buy new, do some research to shortlist the manufacturers that you like; then contact them about your intention to purchase and discuss the possibility of modifying the base product for more leg and head room. Regular sized (90 inch /228.6 cm wheelbase) Cobras have been built to accommodate 7 foot tall drivers with reasonable comfort. Mods include scalloping the rear cockpit wall, reduced seat thickness, extended footboxes, dropped floor pans, etc. Not all body/chassis combinations can accept the modifications but with the prospect of a guaranteed sale, most manufacturers should be willing to work with you. Good luck.

[letsboogie351]

Some like Kenmer Engineering here in Vic will make a chassis and body 100mm longer for you

[34fords]

I am in the process of buying a new Superfprmance and I am 6' 3" tall , 250 lb.
Superformance cars accommodate tall drivers. Take a look at Hillbank Motors in Irvine CA. and talk to Doug Campbell he will tell you all about them. Doug is a very knowledgeable guy.

[windy]

I am 6’6” and 260 with a size 14 shoe. I have a 96’ wheelbase with a 4” drop floor and big block. My head is under the height of windshield and my legs can stretch completely straight in cockpit. Owned the car for 15 years. You will have to “try on” the cars and pay attention to the foot room. I have one pair of skinny shoes I wear when driving; but it is worth the effort. I could not even close the door on Superformance or Backdraft.

[Globey15]

Hi All,

Thanks for the responses. Thinking the "If you don't ask you don't get" philosophy with manufacturers is worth a go to get something modified.

Twobjshelbys - my profile has me down for NSW, Australia and I thought I'd posted in the Australian forum - do I need to fill out something else for it to show?

[David Hodgson]

Hi Globey, you might have to fill out the City and State boxes for it to show.

[cycleguy55]

Originally Posted by Globey15

Hi All,

Thanks for the responses. Thinking the "If you don't ask you don't get" philosophy with manufacturers is worth a go to get something modified.

Twobjshelbys - my profile has me down for NSW, Australia and I thought I'd posted in the Australian forum - do I need to fill out something else for it to show?

Your profile page has places for you to enter City and State, along with other information.

[Donunder]

I'm 6'4" and have an Arntz that I imported from the US many years ago. I have had the floor dropped and the steering column raised and I am very comfortable, size 14 shoes and all.

I would suggest however that you try to find a local car as the exercise of bringing a car in is quite daunting. Get along to one of the Sydney club meetings and ask to try a few cars for size. Take your shoes off and don't be put off if the cockpit seems snug, because that's the way they are! Remember that dropping the floor makes a huge difference. Try a 94" wheelbase one if you can (90" is standard).

As far as the different makes go .... the older Qld made DRBs have surprising leg room and I believe the Victorian Kenmers do as well. If you have the funds and don't mind a bit of a wait then buying new is the painfree way to go. Have a look at the ICC site. Island Custom Cars in South Australia. Wil will make a car to suit YOU. Tailor made. Don't worry about "originality". These are all hot rods so go with what makes you happy. You'll see all sorts at a club gathering. Good luck!