New Member Here, the addiction has begun

[12yearslater]

Well, I've come here to introduce myself.

I've been a Corvette guy my whole life (33 years) and am now ready to expand my pallet a bit. The 289 Cobras interest me.

My first impression is, there is a lot to learn about these cars. I'm a bit lost to be honest.

First, there are so many different manufactures of replicas out there. ERA, Backdraft, Factory Five, Superperformance, Kirkham, Shell Valley etc... the list goes on and on. From what I've seen, the ERA cars look pretty damn nice. Any thoughts? Any replicas that are more problematic than others (at the risk of offending someone)?

Second, if I did purchase a car I'd want a turnkey model or a used model. I know ERA produces turnkey models but are these turnkey models of good quality?

Third, engines. What are the high quality engines to look for in a pre-owned model? Ford 351 Windsor? Ford 302? Again, so many options!

Fourth, is Cobracountry.com the best place to look for pre-owned cars?

I'd prefer to buy a 289.

This whole experience is a lot different than going to GM and saying I want this model Vette with these options. I suppose this is part of the fun!

Thanks guys.

[crASH]

Welcome fellow newb. I, too, am planning for a 289 car....one day.

Good news, bad news.

The good news is that there are not so many builders of 289 cars, which narrows the field. ERA is outstanding. Can't go wrong, if you can wait. Unique makes a great car also. There is MUCH recent discusssion here on this forum about these two. ERA vs Unique FIA
SPF now makes a roller 289 car, not available as kit. And if you have deep pockets, Kirkham I believe can accomodate you in an alloy bodied car.

Bad news, if you are looking for used, they are darned few and far between, compared to 427 cars.

And yes, Cobra Country is a great place to look, as well as the classifieds here.

Good luck, and let the hunt begin.

[PeteF]

There are two nice looking small block ERAs for sale right now on Cobra Country. ERA 2054, originally owned by the GM of ERA, and ERA2076. Both priced in the 40s. Hemmings and Carsonline.com are other sites to shop. Good luck and have fun.

[Young1]

My addiction begun in 1998. Just put one in the garage this past April. 14 year wait. Read well the ERA vs Unique post. You can buy one with the bugs worked out much cheaper than buiding one. For what I paid for mine complete with title vs building one was like I got the engine, trans and pro paint job at no cost!

[Rodney D]

Looking for Cobra in NJ. Just started looking 2 weeks ago. Welcome any and all suggestions.
Thank you

[PeteF]

I believe the ERA above, number 2054 is titled in NJ, per the ad in Cobra Country.