Of all the cars that have seen replicas created, none has perhaps been imitated so frequently as the Shelby Cobra.
Limited Shelby production numbers, and the huge sums of money required to buy one, mean a replica Cobra is the most accessible way to experience one.
Such demand means there are plenty of replica options. However, the ERA Replica Automobiles version, like the car currently for sale on Bring a Trailer, is regarded as one of the most accurate renditions.
Daydream in blue
This particular 289 FIA ERA Cobra is said to have originally been purchased by legendary baseball player, Reggie Jackson. ‘Mr October’ bought the ERA kit in 2012, with the current seller having acquired the car in 2019.Â
On the outside, the fiberglass bodywork is finished in Yankee Blue, and features additional red stripes and racing roundels. Rather than being decals, these have actually been painted on.
The seller has had ceramic paint coating applied to the paintwork. Clear protection film has also been used on the nose and other exposed parts.
More go, more gears
At the heart of the Cobra replica is a 351-cubic inch Ford Cleveland V-8. Noted as supplied by BluePrint Engines of Kearney, Nebraska, the engine was supplied in 400 horsepower specification. It now benefits from ceramic-coated headers, and a custom stainless steel exhaust system.
Originally built with a four-speed Toploader transmission, the seller has replaced this with a five-speed Tremec TKO manual unit. A Centerforce clutch was installed at the same time.
The Cobra wears a set of 15-inch FIA-style knock-off wheels, fitted with Avon tires. All four corners use disc brakes, with the rear pair mounted inboard. Adjustable coilover suspension allows for fine tuning of the Cobra’s ride and handling.
Passenger grab handle is included
When first built, the ERA Cobra had an interior with bare aluminum trim and racing seats. The seller has changed this, installing carpeting, along with new bucket seats upholstered in black leather.
The seats are mounted on adjustable runners, allowing drivers of differing heights to get comfortable behind the wood-rimmed steering wheel. A dash-mounted rear view mirror, and the all-important passenger grab handle have been fitted, too.
A speedometer that reads to 160 mph is part of the Stewart Warner instrument cluster, along with oil and water temperature gauges. The odometer is said to show just 1,000 miles, with 400 of these having been added by the seller.
A snake to get bitten by
With a choice selection of upgrades, including the 351 V-8 engine, this replica Cobra is likely to attract plenty of interest on Bring a Trailer.
Multiple questions and comments have already been posted, with many more bids expected before the auction closes on Tuesday, May 18.
Although the Cobra is located in Moorpark, CA, Bring a Trailer’s own shipping service means it could be delivered anywhere within the contiguous 48 states. Perfect timing for summertime cruising.
ALSO READ
Rolls-Royce owned by HRH Princess Margaret heads to auction