1966 Shelby Cobra CSX

Description

If you're going to build a Cobra, do it right. This one packs a cackling 427 side-oiler with dual quads, a Toploader 4-speed, and a fully independent suspension, so the hardware is quite authentic. On the other hand, it's wrapped in some truly breathtaking bodywork, a trick interior that's more stylish than the regular Cobra stuff, and a few practical touches as well. If you want to build your own, isn't this how you'd do it?

This is a Contemporary Classics Cobra, and if there's a more famous shape in the automobile kingdom, I don't know what it might be. Aggressive up front and seductively rounded out back, the car looks fast just sitting still. Painting it bright red gives it a high profile, but that's the point of a Cobra, right? The finish work on this particular kit is absolutely amazing, with an expertly prepped body and crystal clear paint that shows up distortion-free regardless of what angle you're viewing. Note the detailing of the stripes, which not only track across the bodywork like laser beams, but wrap into the jambs of the hood and trunk, which shows an obsession with perfection. Authentic details include the front grille guard, Cobra badges, and small Lucas-style taillights, not to mention the flip-up gas cap and wind wings, which really make a difference in driving comfort.

At first glance, the interior is pure Cobra: low-back black leather buckets, a wooden steering wheel, and classic Smiths instruments, but look closer. That dash is wrapped in faux snake skin, which seems quite appropriate in the racy Cobra. There's a powerful AM/FM/CD stereo with speakers stashed throughout the interior, including the door panels and behind the seats, and toggle switches for the auxiliary functions. The big T-handle shifter manages a Toploader 4-speed, and while it's not quite the elegant setup that the originals used, it's a joy to bang it through the gears and listen to the side pipes wail. Tinted sun visors are a classic touch, as is the chrome roll bar behind the driver's head. In the fully upholstered trunk there's a remote-mounted battery with master cut-off and unlike many Cobra replicas, this one carries a full convertible top for inclement weather.

For an authentic experience, nothing beats a 427 Side-Oiler topped with dual quads. How much horsepower does it make? A lot. It's detailed like an original with cast aluminum valve covers, twin air filters, and a medium-riser intake that gives it decent street manners. Edelbrock Performer heads build horsepower and reduce weight and the MSD ignition system ensures a clean burn every time. Although you can't see it from above, the block is dressed in proper Ford blue, as is the transmission, while much of the suspension is painted red to match the bodywork. The front suspension is the usual A-arms, while out back there's a Jaguar-type independent setup with coil-overs and heavy-duty half shafts that were painted to match the body, too. 4-wheel disc brakes give it plenty of stopping power to match what's going on up front and those giant 18-inch Boss Motorsport wheels totally fill the wheel arches with 225/45/18 front and 285/35/18 rear performance radials.

This is not a Cobra for the inexperienced driver, but if you want the brutal acceleration tempered with a few luxurious touches and immaculate build quality, this is the one for you. Call today!