MkV Rumor Mill

[RaceMattC]

Since the release of the Mk3 Coupe, it has got me thinking about the next Roadster. I think Factory 5 did an amazing job with the chassis. It looks so much better (and apparently is so much stiffer) going to the new lattice structure over the traditional beams up the middle. The obvious question now is, when will the Cobra receive the same treatment? Has anyone heard anything through the rumor mill, or is this a taboo subject on the forums? This is purely a guess, but it seems like the Mk4 is getting long in the tooth, and it is next in line for an upgrade.

I am looking to buy one this year (unlikely) or next year, (more likely). I'd much prefer to have a chassis optimized for the IRS and not two beams up the middle.

[edwardb]

These kind of things are typically kept pretty quiet. Even those who may know aren't supposed to say anything. Interesting though how the period correct 4-inch tube chassis is now perceived as less than optimal. It's been one of the things that's differentiated the Factory Five replica from most of the competition. No doubt the Gen 3 Coupe space frame is even stiffer. But the current design is no slouch. Any chassis I can jack from anywhere on the side and the whole thing lifts is pretty stiff. You can feel how stiff it is when you're driving it too. Personally, I wouldn't consider the Mk4 as getting long in the tooth. It's undergone constant incremental changes and improvements since it was introduced. And the new 2015 Mustang based IRS is sweet.

[kgkeys]

That is pretty funny... Round tube frame and IRS were two of my "have to haves" when I started looking for a Cobra. I was pretty surprised to find out you can basically jack up the entire front from one corner. I've only got 150mi on mine, but I wouldn't have it any other way. There was that outfit in FL that was making aluminum bodied "MkVs". :D

-Kyle

[GoDadGo]

I've got to chime in on this one since we all know that I love to chime in.

1. I love the new Type-65 and that chassis is totally amazing so I would love to build one down the road.
2. I equally love the MK-4 because it is now more "Period Correct Looking" since the arrival of the new independent rear suspension.
3. For the record, I'd hate to see that chassis be modified because losing that 4" round tube chassis looks so period correct.

If Dave Smith & His Band Of Merry Men Want To Do Something Really Cool, Then I Say Bring Back The Type 65 Spyder!

[Gumball]

Only my opinion and your mileage may vary, but I would think that if any such change were to take place, maybe - and it's a huge maybe, it would be for the Challenge cars and not for the road-going replicas. FFR has always made it a point to refer to the period-correct nature of their chassis, including the changes that were made to the front "X" on the Mk4 cars, so I don't see them changing it on all kits.

[kgkeys]

If Dave Smith & His Band Of Merry Men Want To Do Something Really Cool, Then I Say Bring Back The Type 65 Spyder!

I've said before that if they were making the spyder when I ordered my car, it would have been a VERY tough decision...

-Kyle

[GoDadGo]

I really wanted to do a Syder, but it went out of production before I got my funds together.

That car was so exotic looking, plus I thought that my 383-Mighty Mouse / ZF 6-Speed Combo would have be a bit more palatable in that platform over the MK-4.

I just hope that they don't do away with the 4" round tube chassis for the MK-4 & FIA cars because I feel like they have perfected those cars so why mess with them.

[SkiRideDrive]

My 2 cents: I have been lurking a while and would absolutely build a Roadster with the new Coupe type chassis, and definitely would not build one with the current design. I am actually now considering building a coupe as I am quite impressed with the new chassis. I however prefer the aesthetics of the Roadster body. Function and safety over nostalgia for me.

[Yama-Bro]

When the MK4 was released, I remember Dave Smith saying something about this being the last changes they make to the roadster for a long time. I'm not saying they can't improve it more, but I do think that the redesign and updates they did to get to the MK4 are similar to the redesign and updates that they did to get to the Gen 3 Coupe. Plus it makes sense that they'd update the roadster before the coupe since it's their top seller.

[BEAR-AvHistory]

If it ain't broke don't fix it. IMHO it ain't broke.

[Gumball]

Just another thought - although I'm certainly not an engineer. The upper roll cage structure must assuredly have something to do with the stiffness of the new space-frame chassis on the Gen 3 coupe. Not sure if that would be the case if you were to remove all that upper structure, as you would have to do in order to make it work in a regular roadster. All the more reason for my earlier comment of I could only see that being done for the Challenge car, which needs a cage structure anyway.

[SkiRideDrive]

The cage isn't triangulated at the front upper node so it would add minimally to the stiffness. If you look at nascar cages and australian v8 supercar you will see an additional tube to the upper front node, making the structure much stronger. I would think if you cut out the cage the new design would still be significantly stronger in torsion and bending.

[RaceMattC]

Well I am bummed if it is indeed true Factory 5 wants to stick with tradition with the tubes. Even though apparently the frame is "good enough" there is no suspension engineer (besides in karting) that has ever said "yep, that chassis is too stiff."

Besides the obvious stiffness and weight benefits, I'd also like to lower driver seating position. It seems like the seat sits on the tube, significantly raising the driver's head. If I can get the driver lower, then I'd feel a lot better about the rollover protection from the bars. Right now without the Challenge car rollbar, it looks like it will be close for passing the broomstick test with a helmet on. I do realize the roll hoops could be extended, but I am trying to balance aesthetics with safety. I think a full halo is out of the question, but I am trying to make do with keeping a close to stock look.

[edwardb]

Well I am bummed if it is indeed true Factory 5 wants to stick with tradition with the tubes. Even though apparently the frame is "good enough" there is no suspension engineer (besides in karting) that has ever said "yep, that chassis is too stiff."

Besides the obvious stiffness and weight benefits, I'd also like to lower driver seating position. It seems like the seat sits on the tube, significantly raising the driver's head. If I can get the driver lower, then I'd feel a lot better about the rollover protection from the bars. Right now without the Challenge car rollbar, it looks like it will be close for passing the broomstick test with a helmet on. I do realize the roll hoops could be extended, but I am trying to balance aesthetics with safety. I think a full halo is out of the question, but I am trying to make do with keeping a close to stock look.

The footboxes are lower than the top of the 4-inch chassis tubes. But yes, the main cockpit floor where the seats are mounted is on top of the 4-inch chassis tubes. So, 4-inch ride height + 4-inch chassis tube + few inches for the seat (with me sitting in it) puts my backside 10-11 inches or so from the pavement. I can put my arm over the door and just about touch the ground. Lower seating position so I can't see over the dash and over the relatively long (for its size) front cowl? I don't think so. The standard Factory Five roll bar is already somewhat elevated, and most are able to pass the broomstick test.

This is a replica of a classic 50+ year old design. With newer design suspension components and better brakes, newer engine setups including EFI, it improves on the classic and is a very potent performer and awesome to drive. I for one would be very disappointed if the basic concept that's worked for 9,000+ cars is changed.

I think you're looking at the wrong car. Just my opinion. I'm out.

[q4stix]

Also consider that the Roadster could fit the new Coyote engines within the footboxes while the Coupe owners had to do a lot more to make everything fit. The new design allows current engine options with ease and allows phasing the new space frame in with a lower volume production model.

[BEAR-AvHistory]

I think you're looking at the wrong car. Just my opinion. I'm out.

Sounds like a plan.

[RaceMattC]

Thanks for the info about the seating position, that is really helpful to know. Maybe I shouldn't be too worried then. I've just been trying to go off of pictures from people on a track and what their setup ends up looking like. I'll have to see if someone at the track will let me sit in one with a helmet on.

[SkiRideDrive]

This doesn't seem like a very inviting atmosphere... The gist I am getting here is this is how it has been done forever and if you are looking for progress please leave. Just my observation. I suppose some people are just stuck in the past. Some people are open to engineering and progress.

Q4 could you elaborate a bit. I am a bit confused on which chassis you are talking about. When you say new design.. do you mean new coupe or new roadster? Thanks

[Gumball]

Yep - happy to say I'm stuck in the past... that's why I built a FFR and did it as period-correct as I could make it.

As for welcoming, I think this site is one of the best as far as being fair, open, and respectful. Speaking for myself, my comments on this thread were simply to point out that FFR has made the connection to the original cars a cornerstone of their marketing of the Roadster, since 1995. They offer many progressive designs, particularly the GTM and the 818. I think that is a great product mix and allows a place for those who want to relive the glory days of road racing and experience the essence of the Ford / Shelby connection for something in a reasonable price point.

Old-skool is kool.....

http://i845.photobucket.com/albums/ab15/CCRsAC/IMG_20150801_131238342_HDR_zpsy1clgmuy.jpg (http://s845.photobucket.com/user/CCRsAC/media/IMG_20150801_131238342_HDR_zpsy1clgmuy.jpg.html)

[GoDadGo]

Amen Brother Gumball, Amen!

Except for the motor of course!

[q4stix]

Q4 could you elaborate a bit. I am a bit confused on which chassis you are talking about. When you say new design.. do you mean new coupe or new roadster? Thanks

Sorry, I should have worded that better. The Roadster can already fit a Coyote engine in the existing chassis. The Gen 2 Coupe needed 'massaging'. The new Gen 3 Coupe chassis allows the same powertrain configurations as the Roadster now as well as being an upgrade in other areas. There isn't the same 'need' in the Roadster because there are lots of options for nearly every detail and lots of market solutions for ones FFR hasn't addressed yet.


Yep - happy to say I'm stuck in the past... that's why I built a FFR and did it as period-correct as I could make it.
....
I think that is a great product mix and allows a place for those who want to relive the glory days of road racing and experience the essence of the Ford / Shelby connection for something in a reasonable price point.

I think you've correctly pointed out the dilemma FFR is experiencing. They want to create a replica that pays tribute to the original that respects the heritage and development, but still offer it to a new generation of customers that want to take advantage of the new technology and developments on the market.

The Roadster and the Coupe were never static examples of design since engine types changed, bodywork was updated, etc. on the track and in production. I still fully appreciate the legacy and want to be a part of the community like Shelby would have done - using the latest engine, the latest suspension, and now the latest space frame chassis to make a car similar, but not necessarily identical to the original.

[jakester888]

There's a video of Dave Smith talking about the MK4 - published in 2010. In this video Dave states his intention to make this "final" refresh to the kit. In otherwords, at the time, Dave had no vision of making any more improvements. Key comments at 1:27.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ckgfkPU8Ss

[Jim Schenck]

While this debate likely will eventually happen up in the conference room at Factory Five I can say for certain there is no MKV in the skunkworks as of yet. The round tube vs spaceframe debate may be just as polarizing inside of FFR as it looks like it could get here, however there is a fairly simple solution that keeps everyone happy, we just continue to offer both styles of chassis along with whatever other things we could come up with for a MKV. When doing the coupe chassis and envisioning the carry over to the roadster that was the only way I could picture us going forward with it. In time it may be that one style would win out but more likely I think there is a market for both styles, just as been demonstrated from the small sample size on this thread. For anyone hoping to not get caught out by the next release being a MKV, you needn't worry, that's not what's next:cool:

[wareaglescott]

For anyone hoping to not get caught out by the next release being a MKV, you needn't worry, that's not what's next:cool:

Well this is quite the tease! haha
Thanks for the post in this thread!

[GoDadGo]

While this debate likely will eventually happen up in the conference room at Factory Five I can say for certain there is no MKV in the skunkworks as of yet. The round tube vs spaceframe debate may be just as polarizing inside of FFR as it looks like it could get here, however there is a fairly simple solution that keeps everyone happy, we just continue to offer both styles of chassis along with whatever other things we could come up with for a MKV. When doing the coupe chassis and envisioning the carry over to the roadster that was the only way I could picture us going forward with it. In time it may be that one style would win out but more likely I think there is a market for both styles, just as been demonstrated from the small sample size on this thread. For anyone hoping to not get caught out by the next release being a MKV, you needn't worry, that's not what's next:cool:


Jim,

Here Is A Suggestion From The Dark Side Of The Peanut Gallery:

1. Leave the MK-4, FIA and Challenge Cars alone since they are perfected.
2. Bring back the Type 65 Spyder based on the new space/truss frame design.
3. Create a truck and/or possibly a 4 Seat Woodie version of the 33 Hot Rod.
4. Continue to perfect the 818 since FFR has a coupe, a drop top and R-version of that platform.

This strategy would give Factory Five Racing multiple versions of each platform except for the flagship GTM.
Economy of Scale & Multi-Usage Of Each Platform Will Yield Income Concentration Diversity.

Sorry To Speak Like A Banker, But I'd Like You All Do Well While Continuing To Grow & Improve The Company!

Steve

[RaceMattC]

Jim,
Thank you for the response from inside Factory 5. I didn't realize this would be such a polarizing subject when I first brought it up! I'll have to do some thinking now over which one I prefer. The looks of the Roadster are just drop dead amazing, but it is hard to ignore the straight function and performance of the coupe.

[steno]

A 33 with a back seat SHOULD be in the plan! 2 doors... 4 seats!!

[Svtfreak]

A 33 with a back seat SHOULD be in the plan! 2 doors... 4 seats!!

At least give me a rumble seat! I intend to do a 33 within a year and a half or so to start it, and with 3 kids under 11 and a wife, I need all the spots I can get! The oldest will be out by the time
I get it all together so a rumble seat with room for two little ones works perfect

[Jeff Kleiner]

A 33 with a back seat SHOULD be in the plan! 2 doors... 4 seats!!

Been saying this to Dave for years (heck Sten, you've probably been standing there with us as I've preached it ;)). Young guys with kids and us old farts with grandkids want to be able to haul them around.

http://www.cruisenewsonline.com/33FordPhaetonSpeedstar/33FordPhaetonSpeedstar-1.jpg

Jeff

[myjones]

Been saying this to Dave for years (heck Sten, you've probably been standing there with us as I've preached it ;)). Young guys with kids and us old farts with grandkids want to be able to haul them around. http://www.cruisenewsonline.com/33FordPhaetonSpeedstar/33FordPhaetonSpeedstar-1.jpg
Jeff

Jeff
Good to know we are on the same soapbox, AMEN brother;
That long top in soft and hard versions would be great options on the 33. If the chassis was updated a little on the coil over points the IRS should sit nicely below a rear bench.
The woody version would still be my favorite though.
DB

[myjones]

I can say for certain there is no MKV in the skunkworks as of yet. snip , you needn't worry, that's not what's next:cool:

The skunk whisperer has spoken ;)
And at night on his own time, that is dedication to the brand.
Diggin the new stuff and respecting the old.

Dale Berry

[ram_g]

I suppose some people are just stuck in the past.

Dude, this is the funniest thing I've read in a while. The Roadster by intent is designed to replicate a car that was built in the mid 1960's. If you didn't intend to replicate stated vehicle, there are dozens of other ways to get your jollies, Ariel Atom, Polaris Slingshot, etc., to say nothing of FFR's own 818. But to post in a Roadster forum and cast rocks at being "stuck in the past" is just ludicrous.

Proudly one of the past-stickers,
Ram_G

[edwardb]

Dude, this is the funniest thing I've read in a while. The Roadster by intent is designed to replicate a car that was built in the mid 1960's. If you didn't intend to replicate stated vehicle, there are dozens of other ways to get your jollies, Ariel Atom, Polaris Slingshot, etc., to say nothing of FFR's own 818. But to post in a Roadster forum and cast rocks at being "stuck in the past" is just ludicrous.

Proudly one of the past-stickers,
Ram_G

I said I was done, but I can't help myself... Thank you. :)

[Duke]

IMO, the next business move for FFR that would make since is to expand and create a production/assembly group to sell turn key products and take advantage of the recent law changes for small manufactures. This would expand the customer base by a large margin and compete with Superformance and backdraft, taking some of their existing market share. Also, a state of the art inventory management system with bar code scanning and production operations management reporting would really help customer service for the kit side of the business.

[BEAR-AvHistory]

I would think about doing an FFR 33 with a rumble seat option. Did this '33 in the mid eighties as a 2+2. Leather interior & audio controls on both seating positions. The rear window could lower to make conversation possible. Paint is a Mercedes Benz blue. Car is a metal/plastic combo collection of crash parts over a modified reproduction frame.

http://www.bimmerfest.com/forums/picture.php?albumid=13669&pictureid=52726
http://www.bimmerfest.com/forums/picture.php?albumid=13669&pictureid=52725

[UnhipPopano]

"IMO, the next business move for FFR that would make since is to expand and create a production/assembly group to sell turn key products and take advantage of the recent law changes for small manufactures. This would expand the customer base by a large margin and compete with Superformance and backdraft, taking some of their existing market share."

If they were to do something like this, they should set it up as a separate business. I could see someone purchasing a car, getting killed and the family suing for $$$$$. A separate company would stop the law suits as the second company would have limited assets.

"Also, a state of the art inventory management system with bar code scanning and production operations management reporting would really help customer service for the kit side of the business."

On the other hand, they might like to spend more time and effort dealing with angry customers and paying for multiple shipments of back-order parts. As they grow, there is probably someone in the office looking to build their empire with as many employees as they can.

[steno]

Perhaps a separate business is why Dave bought the adjoining property in Wareham! Hmmmmm.

[GoDadGo]

Add An LS, SBC and/or BBC Version = One Great MK-5 Roadster! >>>----------> Sorry My Ford Friends, But I Just Had To!

> I would like to see is an LS option ONLY because that engine is easily adapted to the factory mounts, unlike the SBC and BBC mills.
> I'd also like to see FFR add double universal joints, supported of course, to the steering shafts to stop the increasing and decreasing acceleration points.
> It would really smooth out the steering and Stop That Flop Over Feel that we all have on our Roadsters, FIA's & Type-65's.
> It would put the shaft back into phase, which would be nice!

https://youtu.be/gmV4qwLfOMY

[2FAST4U]

I'D like to see period correct foot boxes, trunkpan, and gas tank

[GoDadGo]

I'D like to see period correct foot boxes, trunkpan, and gas tank

Excellent Points!

[cnutting]

IMO, the next business move for FFR that would make since is to expand and create a production/assembly group to sell turn key products and take advantage of the recent law changes for small manufactures. This would expand the customer base by a large margin and compete with Superformance and backdraft, taking some of their existing market share. Also, a state of the art inventory management system with bar code scanning and production operations management reporting would really help customer service for the kit side of the business.

What he said.

Bonus points for a metal roadster body, but that's some serious bucks in tooling.

[mikeinatlanta]

This doesn't seem like a very inviting atmosphere... The gist I am getting here is this is how it has been done forever and if you are looking for progress please leave. Just my observation. I suppose some people are just stuck in the past. Some people are open to engineering and progress.

Q4 could you elaborate a bit. I am a bit confused on which chassis you are talking about. When you say new design.. do you mean new coupe or new roadster? Thanks
The potential for adding newer technology is limitless on this car, and if anyone would have noticed negativity for unconventional thinking it would be me, and I haven't experienced a single bit.

IF you are wanting to get the seat lower by cutting the 4" tube, and IF you want a more rigid chassis, and IF you want the car to have a reasonable amount of safety with pushing limits, then you will need a full cage and the 4" tube becomes structurally irrelevant anyway.

I would say the real question is whether you want to have a roadster with a full cage. If not, you need to be looking at a coupe. If so, cutting a section of the 4" tube means almost nothing.

62567

[CraigS]

RaceMatt see this thread for cad designed chassis stiffening by one of the most respected FFR builders ever.
http://thefactoryfiveforum.com/showthread.php?141-David-s-Mk4-Build-Thread&highlight=dave+borden

[MPTech]

.... because it is now more "Period Correct Looking" since the arrival of the new independent rear suspension.

GoDadGo, I respect your opinion (and you even admit to running a Chevy :rolleyes:) but what does this mean? the new IRS is more period-correct than the old one???

[SkiRideDrive]

The potential for adding newer technology is limitless on this car, and if anyone would have noticed negativity for unconventional thinking it would be me, and I haven't experienced a single bit.

IF you are wanting to get the seat lower by cutting the 4" tube, and IF you want a more rigid chassis, and IF you want the car to have a reasonable amount of safety with pushing limits, then you will need a full cage and the 4" tube becomes structurally irrelevant anyway.

I would say the real question is whether you want to have a roadster with a full cage. If not, you need to be looking at a coupe. If so, cutting a section of the 4" tube means almost nothing.

62567

A roadster with a full cage would be pretty cool. I think the ideal setup would be a roadster with a triangulated chassis (similar to the new coupe chassis) and having a full size roll bar (like the challenge car) but having the hoop supports running rearward rather than forward like the challenge car so that you could drive it on the street without a helmet. I also would prefer full door bars for impact protection. I don't mind stepping over the door, these cars are super low anyway. I realize I don't represent every buyer though. But that is what this potential customer would really like. The coupe has definitely rejuvenated my interest in getting a FF car.

If I was doing a full track car I would probably just go with something like a radical, as it is designed for that purpose from the start.

[AC Bill]

My opinion is, without the round tube frame, the FFR would become just another Cobra replica.

That retro aspect, is one of the big selling points I feel. Might be because I'm older, and familiar with the originals. A younger aged buyer might not appreciate that original aspect as much.

[GoDadGo]

GoDadGo, I respect your opinion (and you even admit to running a Chevy :rolleyes:) but what does this mean? the new IRS is more period-correct than the old one???

The first Factory Five that I got a chance to really look at had the earlier IRS version. It appeard a tad light in the loafers, especially the half shafts, and it didn't look like it was as beefy as the rest of the car.

When I ordered my car and inquired about that setup and Dan Golub suggested that I strongly consider going with the 3 Link Sold Axle because he felt like my Mighty Mouse would shred that IRS at the CV joints.

A friend of mine just completed a 396-FE Ford powered MK-4 (Hottrodder427) and the new IRS appears to be a lot more substantial than the earlier version. The fact that the car has sway bars on both ends is a big plus too.

[SkiRideDrive]

My opinion is, without the round tube frame, the FFR would become just another Cobra replica.

That retro aspect, is one of the big selling points I feel. Might be because I'm older, and familiar with the originals. A younger aged buyer might not appreciate that original aspect as much.

If you don't mind me asking, this isn't the first time someone mentioned another replica that is less retro. Does this mean there is another kit out there with a triangulated tube frame chassis like the new coupe? If so I haven't been able to find it. I have checked some of the other brands mentioned, and they all seem to be flat ladder type frames, which are basically noodles in torsion and don't offer the safety of a better designed chassis.

[RaceMattC]

+1 on the lack of other choices. All other kits I've found are either complete piles of crap or stunningly expensive. So expensive, that I could design my own and have the tubes bent and cut for less. The only thing that makes me nervous about this route is getting the bodywork pickup points correct. That and the cost of all the bodywork is almost in line with a base kit, so I might as well go with the base kit.

Basically these cars have it all for me. There is no other car out there that is a V8, "mass" manufactured design with a wide support base with the classic look. I am not looking to erase the roadster history, more just build on it and put a modern touch in. Think what the Caterham R500 did for the original Super 7. Something along those lines. Case and point, I really want to run the new mustang IRS, but have the classic look of the fat rubber sidewalls. Right now I'm not sure it's possible without extensive modification of the upright, but that isn't out of the question. I'll go out of my way to preserve the history of these cars while having modern tech.

Thnks for the pointers to the build thread. I'll have to go through those to see what has been done.

[mikeinatlanta]

If you don't mind me asking, this isn't the first time someone mentioned another replica that is less retro. Does this mean there is another kit out there with a triangulated tube frame chassis like the new coupe? If so I haven't been able to find it. I have checked some of the other brands mentioned, and they all seem to be flat ladder type frames, which are basically noodles in torsion and don't offer the safety of a better designed chassis.

There used to be one called the JBL with a semi-monocoque but I don't believe they are still around. You are not hearing anything because it essentially doesn't exist. If you want an open roadster and you want rigid, you are going to need a cage. As you stated, with a cage you need a helmet. As a result, you are asking for something inherently in conflict with itself within the constraints of the body design.

As far as the idea of support tubes going aft instead of fwd. What you are suggesting is building a structure that has absolutely nothing to stop anything coming over the hood (like a median cable or section of fence) and taking your head off. The challenge car hoop does have minimal protection for this, but even its minimalist design precludes functioning doors. SCCA rules requires support tubes aft and forward (loose interpretation).

[Jeff Kleiner]

There used to be one called the JBL with a semi-monocoque but I don't believe they are still around...

Correct on both counts Mike; JBL was semi-monocoque but is no longer being produced:

http://www.jblmotor.com/images/ch47.jpg

The body strayed pretty far from the shape of originals:

http://www.jblmotor.com/images/BIG-JBL_0334.jpg

Jeff

[GoDadGo]

I can see why the business failed!

[karlos]

I assume you mean cost. Seriously well engineered and executed, funky body style notwithstanding. This is far from what you typically think of as a kit. Anybody know what one of these actually did cost?


http://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=62592&d=1483932805

[Raceral]

If anything needs to be done about the MKIV... it would be the body in my opinion... the work that goes into getting it straight is just ridicules. The complete kit is 20k and the paint is close to 10 K... seems something could be done better.
I look a lot at all those Cobra Replicas made over across the pond they don't have body seams. And please, don't screw with the frame... that's one of the best parts.

[MisterAdam]

IMO, the next business move for FFR that would make since is to expand and create a production/assembly group to sell turn key products and take advantage of the recent law changes for small manufactures....

their motto, printed right on the cover of the brochure states "built not bought". i thought the whole point of these was that we built them.

[GoDadGo]

If anything needs to be done about the MKIV... it would be the body in my opinion... the work that goes into getting it straight is just ridicules.

If they just fixed the drivers side door that would have made me happy.

The inner door skin mold just need to have a little tweaking to resolve the issue.

Yes, I have messed with Fiberglass & still have one boat mold left from when I was a lot younger.

It looks great in my back yard and has bugged my wife for the last 30 years, but we still pop a boat out from time to time.

[CraigS]

Well Dad, show us a boat from your mold please. Now back to Cobras.

[Avalanche325]

FFR is running a business. They have to do things that make a profit. So if there is something that only 10 people want, they simply can't afford to produce it.

I agree that the roadster should stay more traditional. It is a replica of a vintage 1965 car. The majority of people that buy these are doing so because they can't afford an original Cobra, or would be too afraid to drive it if they could. There is a smaller group that wants a more modern car, or hotrod that looks like a Cobra. The MKIV fits both of those to some extent. There are a couple people that want a fully modern supercar that looks like a Cobra. I personally don't get why someone wants a Cobra that is nothing like a Cobra. There have been a couple companies attempt it. They are out of business.

At the same time, I'm a hypocrite, I find the new space frame coupe exciting. Maybe that is the perfect retro-modern combination. I would even like roll-up windows and A/C like a Superformance (without the cheesy GM buttons).

The Spyder was a nice looking car but obviously not selling in high enough volume. You guys do realize that was pretty much a Coupe with the roof cut off? If you really want one, buy the coupe and do a little welding and fiberglass work.

[bwwooster]

If Dave Smith & His Band Of Merry Men Want To Do Something Really Cool, Then I Say Bring Back The Type 65 Spyder! [/QUOTE]

I've always wondered how hard it would be to incorporate the entire folding top mechanism from a Miata onto the Spyder-- the frame just bolts to the sides of the cockpit with the fabric secured around the edge. If they could get the frame, body and windshield frame to play nicely with that top, they'd have a pretty practical DD, which would really differentiate that car from the weekend toys like the Roadster and the Hot Rod.

I know I'd be really tempted...

[rx7922]

any updates?

[edwardb]

any updates?

About what? A Mk5 Roadster? Not a peep, and I wouldn't expect one. Same is said in this thread earlier. It continues to get incremental improvements and it's been stated several times there won't be a new version. The hot rod pickup was introduced and is just starting production. Dave Smith made reference to a new version supercar based on the Gen 3 Coupe frame in a recent post. Maybe to replace the GTM? Nothing has been said publicly about that. https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/showthread.php?27667-What-the-heck-is-THIS-!-A-NEW-GTM&p=316599&viewfull=1#post316599

[myjones]

Been saying this to Dave for years (heck Sten, you've probably been standing there with us as I've preached it ;)). Young guys with kids and us old farts with grandkids want to be able to haul them around.

http://www.cruisenewsonline.com/33FordPhaetonSpeedstar/33FordPhaetonSpeedstar-1.jpg

Jeff
Love that body style and I want a 4 seat option too but;
The longer wheelbase on the 35 truck really lends itself to being used for a sedan delivery version which
is what I have been asking Dave for since 2012. Stretching the passenger compartment on the 33 is a
whole lot more complicated, meaning a complete new chassis.

I do think the new type 65 chassis will get a second body that will replace the GTM in the FF line-up

[j.miller]

The MKV......well I could tell ya what I know but someone would have to die.....maybe you.....maybe me......maybe anyone who even thought they knew.....It's a secret and I'm not drunk enough to spill the beans.....maybe the traveling builder would like to jump in....or Karen S..... maybe.....ah never mind. Time will tell !...da Bat

[David Hodgkins]

MKV, no clue. But the next big thing?:
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/showthread.php?27679-More-leaked-pics-NEW-COUPE-!

:)

[dhuff]

The coupe will never have a space frame due to the lack of a roof and the door openings.

[GSides9]

I can't imaging any car that has more room for personalization than Factory Five. You bolt or rivet every part in to make your car, your way. If you think you want something different, integrate it. If you can't find it, make it. The chassis is mild steel so you can remove parts, fabricate your own replacement and weld that on. They'll probably sell you one without their chassis if you want to build your own, try that with one of their competitors.

[Jammer369]

While this debate likely will eventually happen up in the conference room at Factory Five I can say for certain there is no MKV in the skunkworks as of yet. - snip - For anyone hoping to not get caught out by the next release being a MKV, you needn't worry, that's not what's next:cool:

Ok, bringing this up again as all I can do is obsess over the roadster since I probably won't be ordering a kit until at least the fall of 2021. I just got through watching Dave Smith on the fB live video from earlier this week. Near the end of the video he starts to walk us through R&D and catches himself and states he can't because they are working on something cool in case the F9 is delayed. Immediately after this he walks everyone into the showroom and starts pointing out cars in the showroom. He points out a "MkIV 20th Anniversary car", then points to the 25th Anniversary car but calls it a "MkV". I know the 25th is a MkIV but his remark is less than 30 secs after talking about a cool project in R&D he can't show anyone. Maybe there isn't a MkV they are working on yet or maybe he had just been thinking about the MkV in R&D and let it slip when looking at the roadsters in the showroom.

Jim's comment a few years ago mentioned the debate about a space frame MkV would eventually happen at FFR but hadn't as of yet.

The remark in the video is just about at the 10:45 point.

Maybe it's nothing but it is fun to speculate and think about what they might change. I don't think the body would change much at all since they just made brand new molds based on the 25th Anniversary roadster and are now using those for all MkIV kits.

I love FFR and can't wait to order a kit, hopefully next fall. Personally I think the MkIV is awesome and can't think of anything I would personally change. I like the frame the way it is now. Maybe modify the tunnel a bit to fit a 4r70W (start the roasting) but that is about it.

[Ducky2009]

David Smith LIVE video on FB.
At 10:45 he calls the 25th anniversary roadster a Mark 5

https://fb.watch/_aDqLqx3j/

[Barndad1]

I noticed the same thing that Dave said MKV, i'm looking at starting a roadster build, ordering in mid to late 2021 close to my retirement date.
Would be great if there's an updated roadster, the improvements up to the MK4 have been great, i would like to see a little more room in the trans tunnel for a t56.

[Dave Howard]

Stay tuned

[k-roy]

At least give me a rumble seat! I intend to do a 33 within a year and a half or so to start it, and with 3 kids under 11 and a wife, I need all the spots I can get! The oldest will be out by the time
I get it all together so a rumble seat with room for two little ones works perfect

??? I bought a two seater so I had to leave my 5 kids at home!. :) Although, the kids love it when I pick up or drop them of at school, sporting events, etc.

I love new things. New space age frame, or 4 inch round tubes. All I know is when I pass a modern engineered Porche or when my brother was being followed by a Ferrari, the MkIV is still king of the road. I live in a small town and notice that when I drive the speed limit, cars will not pass. When I pull up to red lights, cars stop behind me. Park with the old cars and be king. Park with the hyper cars and be king.

If a MKV does comes out, I am less worried about the frame (the frame is part of why I picked a F5 over backdraft/superformance). I just want them to make the doors fit. Is that too much to ask?

[JohnK]

I just want them to make the doors fit. Is that too much to ask?

We'll see... :p