Budget Cobra build?
Discussion
I know we've had the debate of which kit is best etc., but which is the cheapest to build if you're on a tight budget? I only ask as Mrs D-Angle has seen the Cobra in the new Mitsubishi ad and it has met with her majesty's approval
I stand a chance of getting to put together a Cobra kit if the price is right, so what are the budget options? Are there cheaper kits that use a lot of parts from a single donor?
I stand a chance of getting to put together a Cobra kit if the price is right, so what are the budget options? Are there cheaper kits that use a lot of parts from a single donor?
Justin
I think we all already know one of the kit Cobra's that will be classed as a budget build (there have been enough discussions about it).
Probably the most popular however is the Pilgrim Sumo.
Another that springs to mind is the Euro 427.
I suppose it all depends on how authentic you want it too look.
I think we all already know one of the kit Cobra's that will be classed as a budget build (there have been enough discussions about it).
Probably the most popular however is the Pilgrim Sumo.
Another that springs to mind is the Euro 427.
I suppose it all depends on how authentic you want it too look.
Liszt said:
Pilgrim Sumo.
Not sure were the python is priced but I ma sure Vince RD or Monty Python will let you know.
I think there is one by classic replica but can't remember much about it.
Not sure what the exact price is, £3k-and-something.
Single donor keeps the price down especially if you're happy with a 3.5L straight 6 from a donor 535i (that's what I've gone for).
You need aftermarket shocks and a hand-brake from a jag other than that the donor does the rest.
Not that it's on topic but my body arrives Saturday. Woo-hoo!
You can find out more about the Euro 427 and its new owner in issue 1 of totalkitcar magazine, available from www.totalkitcar.com
vince rvd said:
Based on our experience, a handy person can build a Python for around 6K if you use the BWM tires and wheels.
Yeah and it would look like crap. Be realistic, a decently finished Cobra with a V8 (or even a tarted up BMW 6) is going to cost you a least £12K. It's about time manufacturers started to be a bit more honest about this subject (This is not directed just at you Vince)
John
I'd have to agree with John's sentiment if not his bluntness.
Having done my research by speaking to builders and manufacturers, there appears to be a price gap of about a half to a quarter.
Vince qualified his piece with "someone a but handy" [or words to that effect]. When you add in costs for a novice for tools, specialist equipment hire (ie hoist) and mistakes(Opps just put a hole in the wrong place the costs can mount up)
I don't doubt that cars can be built for the quoted as build up companies must be making a profit, but they are experienced and doing multiple builds.
The other bit I hate is when quoted costs do not include VAT :rant:
Having done my research by speaking to builders and manufacturers, there appears to be a price gap of about a half to a quarter.
Vince qualified his piece with "someone a but handy" [or words to that effect]. When you add in costs for a novice for tools, specialist equipment hire (ie hoist) and mistakes(Opps just put a hole in the wrong place the costs can mount up)
I don't doubt that cars can be built for the quoted as build up companies must be making a profit, but they are experienced and doing multiple builds.
The other bit I hate is when quoted costs do not include VAT :rant:
Don't be seduced by the manufacturers spin. I built and ran a kit car and club and you should budget AT LEAST 50% more than the manufacturer offers the kit for.
The reasons for this are mainly as follows:
Seldom are all the required bits included and buying the extras is expensive
You will need to budget a reasonable amount for refurbishment of the donor bits
You will need to replace some donor bits that are unsuitable
The worst part of a build for most people is the electrics. If you are required to use the donor loom it won't fit (period!) If you are supplied with a loom it won't fit (period). Unless you are an auto electrician or have two brains it will look like Medusa on a bad hair day and you will end up gettin professional help which will cost more as they will have to correct your mistakes
You will need to think very carefully about the finish that is acceptable especially for a Cobra with large areas of fibreglass.
The cheaper the Kit the more extensive the prep required for the body. Don't assume it comes either in a state that 'a quick polish' will suffice or the the doors, bonnet etc will even fit (check out a row of Cobras at a show and the panel fit will vary between the not bad and truly awful)
Unless you are an ace sprayer check out the cost of painting (see above). Budgets of £5k are not unusual for a well finished job
Best of all go to a show and go to the Cobra stand. Choose a couple of cars you like and get talking to the owner about the true cost. Just make sure that neither the bride nor his mates are near and you MAY get an honest answer.
The reasons for this are mainly as follows:
Seldom are all the required bits included and buying the extras is expensive
You will need to budget a reasonable amount for refurbishment of the donor bits
You will need to replace some donor bits that are unsuitable
The worst part of a build for most people is the electrics. If you are required to use the donor loom it won't fit (period!) If you are supplied with a loom it won't fit (period). Unless you are an auto electrician or have two brains it will look like Medusa on a bad hair day and you will end up gettin professional help which will cost more as they will have to correct your mistakes
You will need to think very carefully about the finish that is acceptable especially for a Cobra with large areas of fibreglass.
The cheaper the Kit the more extensive the prep required for the body. Don't assume it comes either in a state that 'a quick polish' will suffice or the the doors, bonnet etc will even fit (check out a row of Cobras at a show and the panel fit will vary between the not bad and truly awful)
Unless you are an ace sprayer check out the cost of painting (see above). Budgets of £5k are not unusual for a well finished job
Best of all go to a show and go to the Cobra stand. Choose a couple of cars you like and get talking to the owner about the true cost. Just make sure that neither the bride nor his mates are near and you MAY get an honest answer.
I know we're talking Cobras here but the loom of my Super Six has fitted straight in (and worked) with zero problems - just be methodical and it's really very very simple. Lay it out on a flat floor and work outwards from a set point like the fusebox or headlights or something and it will soon become crystal clear. I've never assembled a car before but after trial fitting the loom and a few hours with the wiring diagram it turned out to be one of the easiest bits on the car.
I've had far more hassle with old donor parts and the sheer inneptitude of people like Ford dealers' parts departments. So many times I've been looking for a particular piece and have been told "no sir, it doesn't exist for that age engine" or "the mk3 cortina had square bearings sir, not round ones". I can even be holding the old part for them to examine and they still can't find out what it is. I've tried 3 Ford garages and they've been, without exception, useless.
In contrast, the VW dealer found the required mk1 GTi camber bolts I needed within 5 minutes and they arrived a couple of days later, and shock horror they were actually the right parts.
Anyway, rant over. Find a decent local motor factors and use them wherever possible.
I've had far more hassle with old donor parts and the sheer inneptitude of people like Ford dealers' parts departments. So many times I've been looking for a particular piece and have been told "no sir, it doesn't exist for that age engine" or "the mk3 cortina had square bearings sir, not round ones". I can even be holding the old part for them to examine and they still can't find out what it is. I've tried 3 Ford garages and they've been, without exception, useless.
In contrast, the VW dealer found the required mk1 GTi camber bolts I needed within 5 minutes and they arrived a couple of days later, and shock horror they were actually the right parts.
Anyway, rant over. Find a decent local motor factors and use them wherever possible.
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