Time for a bit of a change.
I’ve always liked muscle cars. You know, those loud, gas-guzzling beasts from the 50’s and 60’s?!?! While in high-school, I had a ’67 Firebird with a big 428 motor (from a Catalina) and, looking back, I’m lucky to have survived my own stupidity. Oh wait – I was an invincible teenager and knew everything!! I sure do miss knowing everything…
Anyway… I like kewl cars. I fell in love with the Shelby AC Cobra the first time I saw a photo of it. For me, it is one of those cars that really sticks with you – something you never stop loving and is forever on your list to Santa Clause.
Time to make the wish come true. My new toy…
No, this is not an original, million dollar, Shelby AC Cobra from the 1960’s. It is a replica by Factory Five Racing.
What?? Why??
Well… because I recently woke up one morning and noticed that I was old. So, now seemed like an ideal time to get back to doing some of the things that I enjoy!!
I was originally going to purchase the Cobra replica project to build myself. You know… stay busy, keep out of trouble, etc… But, I discovered the delivery time is very long (in these crazy times) so I started looking for one already completed and found this car!
The basics are a 2009 Factory Five Roadster Mk3.1, Ford 5.0l (302cid) engine that has been hopped-up a bit, a Ford 8.8 3-link rear end, and Tremec 5-speed T5 transmission.
I purchased her from the original builder in New York state. He did a really fine job with the build as has taken good care of her since then. I am the second owner.
Here is a short video of the sweet sounds of a Cobra!! It’s probably not PC these days but it certainly does not sound like a Tesla!!
The purchase process was very good for me. During this portion of my life, I’ve learned a lot about having patience as well as the fact that I’m not in control of anything (not to imply that I’m good at either one – just better than I used to be). It took a couple weeks to get the deal organized, a couple more weeks as the seller wanted to wait for the check to clear the bank, a couple more weeks to ship the car across the country, and then a couple more weeks to get license plates. In reality, the chunks of time were reasonable, however; when sitting on the edge of your seat watching the days slowly pass by it felt like a really long time. My younger self would have went insane with all that and would have certainly been driving the car around without a license plate. My older self seems to be a bit smarter?? Well… no… probably not. All that said, I did drive her a number of miles around the airport!
I have a few small upgrades planned. You know me, gotta be tinkering on something. Really looking forward to having loads of fun with her.
Nice car!! My mom had a Catalina with a 428. When I used to floor that car, it made the most awesome sound! At least to me, the 17 year old moron driving much too fast!
Thanks Pete!! HA – I know EXACTLY!!! 🙂
Enjoy the Cobra, you earned it! Not my taste, I am not a wind in the hair kind of guy, but it is your show not mine. I’m more a living room on wheels kind, like my long gone ’65 Buick Electra 225 or the ’72 Olds 98.
Ahh yes – the land yachts!! 🙂 I appreciate them all these days! I think this is why they make blondes, brunettes, and red heads… right??
Cool!!!
Thanks Ronda!!
Nice choice Jonny boy! I’m thinking a supercharger should be the next addition – it pretty much justifies itself as it’s a safety feature (don’t want to lag in the passing lane…). I have a magnusson supercharger going on my build but Procharger makes a nice one for your application.
Thanks Rick! Your logic cannot be denied and concern for everyone’s safety is admirable!!! 🙂
Nice car Finley. I love watching you play with all those toys. You’re killing me. You have too much fun. Getting old here, too.
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Thanks Bob!! Kinda crazy how this oldness thing sneaks up a person. Terribly sorry… I try to stay away from phycologists – they have mental illnesses named after me. 🙂
My envy of your toys can’t be measured. I love your RV-4 and I have also always wanted a small block AC Cobra. Living Vicarious through your videos.
If I made entertaining videos they would be me driving a minivan to the grocery store.
Congrats on the new toy.
HA!! Love it Thom – I will watch that video!! 🙂
Wow, that car looks awesome! Can’t wait till you take me for a drive.
Thanks – it’s ready to go!
Great come by and pick me up!
I love it, John!!! Now..is it a one seater?? I want a ride…I will hide in the trunk if need be! Have fun…BUT!! be careful!!
You got it Nannette! It’s a two-seater. Definitely a wild, wind in your hair ride!