Manufacturer Questions

[kcooney9]

I'm considering buying a cobra replica and been doing some extensive research in order to make sure that I buy the best replica possible. However, I've come across several questions that you may be able to help me answer. First, I've noticed that both Backdraft Racing and AC Venom sell South African manufactured cobras with BMW suspensions with a host of other similarities. (However, there are differences such as the taillights)What is the story behind this? All they both selling cars from the same manufacturer? My second question is why as Superformances replicas ten thousand more than everybody elses? I've also been looking into Factory Five's Kit. They seem to offer a very good product and claim to use some original parts. Can anyone comment on this? Finally, which manufacturer makes the best replica for a weekend crusier? Thanks for your help

[Goober]

All I can say is the reason SPF is higher is a lot of options for the Backdraft are standard on the SPF. Take the Backdraft price and then add knock off wheels, top and side curtins, heater, oil cooler and a few other items and then compare prices.
Then look at the re-sale price down the line. Backdraft makes a fine car but the SPF is just a little bit nicer.
Just my humble opinion.
Mark

[Dsprint2000]

Backdraft and Venom are inspired from the same early development. That is, the owners split and are now playing in their own sandbox.....

David

[Dennis Kelley]

Look at what Mark said. I think they are both great cars. I didn't want a fully optioned car because at the time I bought I couldn't afford the extra 10K. It all depends on what you want look at the options you will add to a backdraft and look at what comes standard on the spf. I can live without something that someone else may have to have. Both cars look great I like them both and don't feel you can go wrong with either one However from a cash stand point I think a fully optioned BDR would be as much or more than a SPF. If you add tops, Limited slip, knock offs ect. There is really no difference in price.

later Dennis

later dennis

[Dsprint2000]

One thing to keep in mind as well is the difference in suspensions. Do you want BMW suspension or not.....

David

[kcooney9]

From what I've read it seems that a BMW suspension maybe the best option for a weekend cruiser. I'm looking for a car that I can enjoy driving longer than 20 minutes at a time.

Kellen

[klayfish]

The suspension won't be the limiting factor in how long you can enjoy a cruise. Usually it's the noise. Even with a BMW suspension, I'd believe the ride is somewhat rough. My FFR has a solid rear axle and sprung stiffly. But I get more annoyed with the heat and noise before the bumps. On a nice day, I can be in the car for several hours before really wanting to get out. I'm not sure what you mean by FFR using original parts. They are all replicas, based on the original car.

If you're looking for just a weekend cruiser and nothing more, there are lots of good deals out there. And you'll have to decide if some of the options are worth the thousands of extras for a weekend cruiser.

Steve

[vettestr]

Another choice offering many of your chosen options would be the Cobray-C3. The suspension and entire chassis of the third generation C3 Corvette (1968 to1982) is the build platform for our true single donor concept. This is a hotrod version and not intended to replicate the original but cost and reliability make it worth looking at. Adapter plates allow Ford engines to be used but GM engines are the most popular and cost effective. The bodylines have been sculpted to flow on the increased 98-inch wheelbase and 60-inch track width also making comfort and handling a dream. The time proven design offers 4 wheel disc brakes, independent rear suspension and honestly the largest cockpit available. Donor vettes from the mid to late 70's are plentiful and inexpensive with over 542,000 or C3’s being sold. Complete rebuilt sub-components are available on an exchange basis or proven aftermarket race parts are plentiful. The new reduced weight of about 2400 pounds does require changes to the suspension values but a complete computer designed suspension package is available as a single part number for your build. The Cobray-C3 can be completed for about 23K TOTAL using new or rebuilt components, a crate engine/tranny combination on a factory designed frame and a little chrome, paint and powdercoating. This price does not include labor but building them is part of the magic. I am very biased as this is my company but we can supply you with names of an owner in your area. Please check www.cobrasnvettes.com . Thanks Jeff C

[vettestr]

Well kcooney9,
What did you wind up with as your final decision?
There are a lot of great options and finding the right car just takes time and research. jeff c

[kcooney9]

I'm still shopping. As of right now I've pretty much got it narrowed down to either a superformance or a backdraft. Although I'll have to visit both before making any final decisions. Superformance seems to build a highly respected car with great resale value. Can anyone comment on how quickly a used cobra turns over. I'm also still toying with the idea of a complete build of a Factory Five just to have the pride of building one myself. However, I think that's more of a second cobra project. If anyone has any more opinions on backdraft vs. superformance I would love to hear them.

[saps]

I own one of each and live in North Georgia. If you want, you're more than welcome to come look at them side-by-side. The BDR is brand new, the SPF is three years old.

Honestly, I love them both but they have very different personalities. So the question isn't only resale value, band-for-the-buck, but also what you want to do with it.

If you're interested in seeing them, let me know.


...I was out all day today in the BDR.