NC Registration legislative update (it's good)

[cubldr]

I haven't tried to register a Cobra replica in NC (yet) but have been exploring the process on the off-chance that I actually procure one anytime soon. One of my concerns had been the the annual emissions inspection required in the two largest counties (being Wake and Mecklenburg) and perhaps necessary in other counties as well.

Dennis Olthoff at Olthoff Racing was kind enough to update me on the fact that new legislation was signed into law in NC in late 2009 so that replica car owners can register their vehicles as "replicas" and avoid the normal emissions inspections. I believe North Carolina Safety inspections are still required. Interesting that the powers that be at the DMV are still not entirely up to speed on this so be prepared when/if you go to DMV (or one of their private contractor offices).

Be aware also that there was some "unpleasantness" in the local news in the past several years in our capital city of Raleigh over some high level DMV muckity mucks allowing their friends to register replica's as the real thing so apparently this can be problematic here in NC. DMV appears to view this scenario as tax "avoidance" (property or sales taxes being lower on a 1966 vehicle than a 2006 vehicle, I suppose)

http://www.semasan.com/main/main.aspx?id=62610

As a Cobra newbie, please feel free to correct any of my statements above.

[Stentor]

What type of car are you considering (e.g., new/used, manufacturer)?

If you're considering an SPF, Dennis Olthoff is the way to go (since you live in NC).

Good luck.

[cubldr]

Likely a "used" replica, although most "used" replicas don't really seem to be used at all. They seem to have less miles on them than many demos we sold when I worked for a GM dealership some years ago. I'm not dead set on a particular mfg yet.

Been threatening to drive 2 hours over to Olthoff's for "nigh on" three years now. My only issue with the SPF is that my hindquarters are slightly wider than the seat. At 6'4" and 220lbs I didn't think I was that big based on a recent thread here, but my 40 inch waist is a tight fit. I realize too that other seats will be similarly sized. Lone Star says they have a wider seat available. I need to see if I can find one to try one of these days.

[kayakjack]

Originally Posted by cubldr

My only issue with the SPF is that my hindquarters are slightly wider than the seat. At 6'4" and 220lbs I didn't think I was that big based on a recent thread here, but my 40 inch waist is a tight fit. I realize too that other seats will be similarly sized. Lone Star says they have a wider seat available. I need to see if I can find one to try one of these days.

The fellow I bought mine from was actually a little taller than you. Not sure how much he weighed, but it was surely more than 220. Have you tried sitting in one? You might be surprised. You may well fit.

My car was assembled by Olthoff. It has been absolutely bulletproof and a joy.

Jack

[cubldr]

I sat in an SPF that was for sale in Raleigh a few months ago. It looked to be the same style seats as are typically available with the SPF roadster. The bolsters/supports on either side of the seat where not wide enough for me. I could sit in it, but not comfortably at all. I think I must have a larger pelvis than most my size, or something

[RANDY CARTER]

I don't know about other brands, but I can tell you my experience with the Superformance (bought from Olthoff Racing who offer extraordinary service). When I purchased my SPF I was give a letter which was to be taken to a local DMV office. Based on this letter, and the DMV seemed to be familiar with Superformance cars, they gave me a numbered exemption certificate that was good for the life of the car. When the car was taken to a local inspection station they could enter the exemption number and see that no emissions inspection was required and then just do the safety inspection. Usually, the folks were so busy checking the Cobra out that they didn't even bother to inspect anything at all. As for the seat issue, Olthoff took some of the padding out of the front of the seat to give me more leg room. This might not help with the width problem but surely does help taller guys have extra leg room.

[Stentor]

Originally Posted by cubldr

Likely a "used" replica, although most "used" replicas don't really seem to be used at all. They seem to have less miles on them than many demos we sold when I worked for a GM dealership some years ago. I'm not dead set on a particular mfg yet.

Been threatening to drive 2 hours over to Olthoff's for "nigh on" three years now. My only issue with the SPF is that my hindquarters are slightly wider than the seat. At 6'4" and 220lbs I didn't think I was that big based on a recent thread here, but my 40 inch waist is a tight fit. I realize too that other seats will be similarly sized. Lone Star says they have a wider seat available. I need to see if I can find one to try one of these days.

I am confident that Olthoff could make modifications to the driver's seat (or you could purchase/have a different one made). If you are considering a Cobra--and an SPF is within your budget--you should definitely make the trip to Mt. Ulla (where Olthoff is located).

Incidentally, there is a Cobra get together in North Raleigh every month (Hardees on Creedmoor for breakfast).

[cubldr]

It is encouraging to see that our NC SPF dealer gets such great reviews.

I had also seen that the NC/VA Cobra club meets here in Raleigh monthly, but hadn't seen any recent forum posts. That Hardees is only thirty minutes from my house. Do you guys pull 'em out during these cold months for the monthly meets?

[cubldr]

Hey and another question. I noticed at the SPF website that Olthoff's is not listed as a "dealer", but they ARE listed as "Technical Support / Race Application". For those of you who have purchased vehicles there, is it safe to assume that they have the same SPF "rights and privileges" as a dealer when it comes to actually ordering a vehicle (assuming I can ever GET to that point). They certainly seem to enjoy an excellent reputation.

[s_reynolds]

I had also seen that the NC/VA Cobra club meets here in Raleigh monthly, but hadn't seen any recent forum posts. That Hardees is only thirty minutes from my house. Do you guys pull 'em out during these cold months for the monthly meets?

Yes...the first Saturday of each month. Come and join the group. There are usually between 6-10 cars there.

Sam

[Hitch]

I had no problems registering my BDR here in NC and no problems with inspection or such but then again I live in Johnston County..

Dave

[Hitch]

Originally Posted by cubldr

I haven't tried to register a Cobra replica in NC (yet) but have been exploring the process on the off-chance that I actually procure one anytime soon. One of my concerns had been the the annual emissions inspection required in the two largest counties (being Wake and Mecklenburg) and perhaps necessary in other counties as well.

Dennis Olthoff at Olthoff Racing was kind enough to update me on the fact that new legislation was signed into law in NC in late 2009 so that replica car owners can register their vehicles as "replicas" and avoid the normal emissions inspections. I believe North Carolina Safety inspections are still required. Interesting that the powers that be at the DMV are still not entirely up to speed on this so be prepared when/if you go to DMV (or one of their private contractor offices).

Be aware also that there was some "unpleasantness" in the local news in the past several years in our capital city of Raleigh over some high level DMV muckity mucks allowing their friends to register replica's as the real thing so apparently this can be problematic here in NC. DMV appears to view this scenario as tax "avoidance" (property or sales taxes being lower on a 1966 vehicle than a 2006 vehicle, I suppose)

http://www.semasan.com/main/main.aspx?id=62610

As a Cobra newbie, please feel free to correct any of my statements above.

I'm not sure but about the property tax concern, I have my BDR registered as a 65 replica and with Antique tags on it I pay $50 a year the same as what I pay on my 66 vette...

[cubldr]

Thanks Hitch. Do you ever take your BDR to the monthly club meet on first Saturdays in North Raleigh?

Ash

[Hitch]

Originally Posted by cubldr

Thanks Hitch. Do you ever take your BDR to the monthly club meet on first Saturdays in North Raleigh?

Ash

I have not but I know the group, I usually meet up and talk with them at Cars and Coffee. Good group of guys and I know most of them. I've had my car off the road for a few months trying to get it ready for the April Autofair in Charlotte.

[68 Fastback]

I had no problem registering my BDR in Iredell Co, NC. It's registered as a 65 Replica. They would not let me put antique tags on it.

[Hitch]

Originally Posted by 68 Fastback

I had no problem registering my BDR in Iredell Co, NC. It's registered as a 65 Replica. They would not let me put antique tags on it.

Wonder why, I have them on mine currently. I got them shortly after I titled the car in NC last year.

[fastd]

I recently had my car registered in NC; it was kind of a hassle. Inspection and emissions were no problem. It was more getting the title transferred from out of state. I needed to surrender my title when I registered it; you don't get a title until you bring it (in my case to Louisburg) to get it inspected. The inspector then submits his report to Raleigh - after they lose your paperwork and resubmit the inspection report, you get your title after 4 months!

To 68 Fastback, I know they won't let you put antique tags on it; but did you know that you are sort of able to buy any vintage plate you want at any flea market and hang it on your car as long as you keep your "real", effective plate in the trunk? It seems wacky to me, but that's the way it works...

[Hitch]

Originally Posted by fastd

To 68 Fastback, I know they won't let you put antique tags on it; but did you know that you are sort of able to buy any vintage plate you want at any flea market and hang it on your car as long as you keep your "real", effective plate in the trunk? It seems wacky to me, but that's the way it works...

That's not true, you can put antique tags on it. As for the YOM plates yep you can run any YOM plate you want.

[cubldr]

Noob question. When/if you purchase a new/untitled "completed build w/ drivetrain installed" from out-of-state, would that vehicle typically be untitled, but with MSO provided and then you just go through the process of inspection, registration and titling (or whichever order is prescribed by NC DMV)?