Anybody get cold feet during the wait?

[MB750]

I'm just asking this out of curiosity. I ordered my Roadster in February, expected delivery in December, and thus far I've gone through the gamut of emotions. Started out excited, then nervous, followed by complacent, but now I'm developing indifferent and apathetic emotions about the project and I've still got half a year before it delivers.

I'm not sure what this means. For the last decade I've caught myself purchasing toys (mostly motorcycles) that at the time filled an emotional hole with excitement only to have it wane over the course of a year and be sold only to try some different motorcycle in hopes the joy would last. Turns out, 32 motorcycles over 25 years and I'm entirely out of the hobby. For the first time since 1998 have no motorcycles in my garage.

On one hand, I LOVE working with my hands. Building stuff, making things from scratch, etc... I get a lot of happiness out of building stuff. On the other hand, I'm worried that I'll have a blast building a Roadster only to have the excitement wane after a year or so and end up feeling that emptiness I've had many times before.

Perhaps my feelings are unique to me, I dunno. Maybe I should just get a rescue dog at the pound. :p

[Fman]

Worth the wait building a FFR roadster is a great experience. I have been keeping my finger off the trigger ordering a 289 will save it for when I officially retire but there will be another car in my future. My roadster has been on the road now for about 18 months, as fun as it is to drive I really miss working on it. The Cobra is a great one hour car, you get your fix and get socked in the gut for about an hour drive then it is time to put it away for another day :cool:

Congrats to you on placing your order, enjoy the build!

[boat737]

My lightning bolt of fear hit me the night I looked at all those boxes stacked up in the garage, and thought that I really messed up with this big of project. That feeling was gone in a few days. That was 6 1/2 years ago, and all is good, especially driving the finished product.

Like everything in life, just take it a day at a time, a step at a time. A project as big as this, remember, it's about the journey, not the destination.

[ggunter]

I'm with you on waiting, I can't stand to wait and I only waited 8 weeks for mine 2 years ago. I ordered a new engine last December and it just came last week and I hated every day of waiting for it. However...... When you get this car and it starts going together, and looking like a car, it's worth every day of wait you had to go through. The finished product is something to be proud of. It runs like a raped ape. Looks great. The attention you get everywhere is amazing. People who don't know what the car is just want to talk about it because it is so unusual. (I still can't believe that there are people who don't know what a Cobra is. They must be living under a rock.) But anyway I've wanted one of these cars since I was thirteen years old, I'm 70 now, so it looks like I waited a long time. It was worth it.

[GoDadGo]

I definitely I got that "Sick To My Stomach Feeling" when I pulled the trigger and ordered my MK-4 Complete Kit.

Some of the things that went through my mind were the following:

> This is insane to order a car that comes in a bunch of boxes.
> Why didn't I just go buy myself a new Mustang instead.
> Oh my God, I really can't afford to do this.
> Am I smart enough to pull this off.
> The list went on and on.

Though my build took an extended timeframe to complete, it was a journey that I am oh so glad I took.

Walk Around Pre-Start Naked Cobra:
https://youtu.be/_wnHDNgnNqs

Completed Walk Around Fully Clothed Cobra:
https://youtu.be/9WEe6-wdNtA

The Journey Is Very Much Worth Taking & It Will Change Your Life In Many Great Ways!

[narly1]

In these times of instant gratification I've noticed more expression of impatience and buyer's remorse due to the delivery and build times involved. Not just these FFR kits but many things.

We need to work on changing our attitudes from "If I can't have it today I don't want it." to "Anything worth having is worth the wait (and the investment of personal time and effort)".

Narly1

[Alec]

I'm 3 months from delivery and I can relate to your feelings. I have had hobbies that totally consumed me in the past (video games, triathlons/marathons, restoring a 77 MGB etc etc) that eventually got old and totally lost their luster. And depending on the week lately, I am feeling excited or overwhelmed, and somewhat concerned about the size of this job and whether it will hold my interest all the way to the finish line. I am not retired, I have 1 leaving for college and the other starting high school, so I don't spend much time sitting around wondering how to occupy my time. My current thought is this: I have chosen a career (academic basic science) that has its consistencies year over year, but also its extreme dynamics such that every year the projects, people and resources in the lab have evolved. That way it never gets boring or stops challenging me. I think the cobra build will be like that - it will have phases where different systems are the focus, and for each there will be learning, doing, frustrations and problem-solving, tool shopping (lol), triumphs. Then on to the next system. And there is the distant finish line to dream about - driving it to car shows and into the north georgia mountain roads. I can't imagine it will get boring. I CAN imagine finishing the car and wishing I still had it to work on. If so, it will be time to find a new temporary passion - maybe another car to build as so many others on this forum have done. Rescue dogs are good too.

[MB750]

Thank you everyone for taking the time to reply.


My lightning bolt of fear hit me the night I looked at all those boxes stacked up in the garage, and thought that I really messed up with this big of project. That feeling was gone in a few days. That was 6 1/2 years ago, and all is good, especially driving the finished product.

Like everything in life, just take it a day at a time, a step at a time. A project as big as this, remember, it's about the journey, not the destination.

You said it right there, "It's about the journey, not the destination." I've been there so many times, physically, mentally, etc... In the past I've had more fun building something than enjoying the fruits of my labor once it's complete. That's what's lingering in my head right now. Is this something I'll grow bored of once it's complete because my fun was more wrapped up in the build? To me, the journey is the build. I'm sure these cars are a blast to rip around on but unfortunately I have no frame of reference. Only 2nd hand stories and Youtube videos telling me what it's like.


In these times of instant gratification I've noticed more expression of impatience and buyer's remorse due to the delivery and build times involved. Not just these FFR kits but many things.

We need to work on changing our attitudes from "If I can't have it today I don't want it." to "Anything worth having is worth the wait (and the investment of personal time and effort)".

Narly1

I see your point but I'm not really sure that's my issue right now. I knew the lead time was almost a year before I placed my order and I still placed it. Historically my brain would be in this place whether or not the Roadster was an order on a lead-time list at FFR or if it were in pieces in my garage right now. My issue is more philosophical in that will the emotional fulfillment extend into the ownership experience past the build, but that's more something I need to answer myself. I just wanted to poll the forum here to see whether anyone here is like me in this regard.

[OB6]

I can relate 100% to what you're saying. I too placed my order in February and expect it in December. Since then, especially lately, I've find myself looking at other projects -- like an older direct-drive Ski Nautique to restore. But my wife keeps reminding me why I ordered the FFR, and I'm reminded every time I read a build thread or see a finished car. I'm starting to source some of the parts I know I'll need/want, and also prepare the shop -- so in essence those activities have launched the project without the kit in the garage yet.

Stay the course... you'll be glad you did.

Now to get my mind off the silly idea of restoring a boat. :-)

[J R Jones]

You likely have noticed the numbers of replicas for sale with low miles. Numerous circumstances can contribute to that and perhaps your anxiety is one of the factors.
Another anxiety is getting through the build. I find that I need incremental gratification, waiting for completion is not enough. So I acknowledge the accomplishments as they develope.
Each part and assembly is evaluated and appreciated as they are completed. Eventually it all becomes one. Warning, with incremental expertise, one's standards can escalate causing early achievements to be viewed as sub-standard.
Driving and polishing is not the same as creating. Seeking another challenge is not bad, maybe it is ambition.
jim

[john42]

If you don't insulate your footbox you'll never have cold feet!

Like others have already said, it's about the journey, not the destination.

me to my wife: I'm going for a drive
wife to me: where ya going?
me: no clue.

[narly1]

Sorry if my reply came off on the judgmental side wrt to the entitlement/impatience aspect. It's just that there have been so many POL complaint posts when it's a situation that's really out of everyone's (including FFR's) hands.

I hear what your saying about the let down that can come at the end of build as one transitions into the driving/ownership phase. I already know for myself that the project will never be done, and that there will always be something to update or fix. I think this is one of those questions where one has to look inward and assess how much of a perfectionist (or maybe tinkerer?) they are. How are you as far as maintaining/updating other projects you've completed?

Earl

[Jhinkemeyer]

To me there is nothing to go wrong. You'll love the build as you've stated, so that's all good. Then you'll either love the finished product or you won't...no big deal either way IMHO.

Knowing you may not keep it forever, keep resale in mind while you build it. Well built with desirable options they seem to demand a fair price. You might not make money, but you might not lose money either.

If lead times continue this way for a few more years you'll likely be able to sell it to someone wanting some instant gratification for a good price fairly easily.

[CaptB]

So if you've seen the video but Dave Smith says they've never kept a deposit for someone who changes their mind.

I'm pretty sure if someone orders a kit, puts $1K down and then changes their mind FFR has customers ready to jump into that spot and you'll get your money back.

[egchewy79]

Like you, I seem to be attracted to projects (build a bar in my basement, renovated 2 bathrooms, kitchen, etc). As this was my first foray into automotive stuff, I decided to get a complete kit to make life easier. Along the way, I learned how to rebuild a 289 small block. These projects can be as small or large as you want to make them. Now that I'm done w/ my build (still waiting my turn for body/paint work), I also felt a void that I needed to fill. I ended up buying a 1979 Truck to rehab, which is a different beast all together. If you're worried about complacency after you're finished, maybe take on a restoration of an older classic car. This will likely take longer than putting together new parts, require out of the box thinking/fabrication and fulfill that itch you need to scratch. Worst case scenario is that you finish the car and decide to sell it. Right now with the prices that some of these finished cars are fetching it's not a bad option.

[Tooth]

I ordered in November, and I have the patience of a two year old with ADHD. I think like most of the people that go down this road, I need a project. I get myself into projects, or situations where there's always a time that I think "wtf did I get myself into", but I've been in that situation so many times that the feeling is normal. I have three teenagers, a busy profession, too many other hobbies and interests to list, but I still need something to obsess over.

Only time I get a little anxiety is when I see long build threads. Every time I look at a build thread, I look at the delivery date and where they are at now. Sometimes I'm shocked at how far they have gotten, but it's usually a sobering reminder of what I'm getting myself into. Still, I feel like I'm waiting for Christmas. 168445

[edwardb]

Buyer's remorse is high up the list on any major purchase. House, car, etc. So not unexpected. Probably a little on an island here -- and I applaud the multiple posts encouraging you to wait and stick with it -- but this ticks a little bit of a danger sign to me. To be clear, I love the build process. Evidenced by multiple builds. And I love the end product almost as much. But it's a journey and will have unexpected ups and downs. There will be challenges. Plus it's a lot of work. Probably more than most expect. There are a number of reasons for abandoned projects, as already mentioned, but underestimating the time and effort required is probably high on the list. Even though motivation isn't typically an issue for me, I still sometimes just have to walk away and do something else for a bit (1 week, 2 weeks, etc.) before coming back with renewed energy and determination. So be honest with yourself that you have the time and motivation to make it happen. It will be worth it. But not if you run out of steam before getting done.

One suggestion I'd make, I assume you've observed the multiple build threads on here? Highly recommend doing one of those as part of your build. How much detail you provide is up to you. Can be just the high points summarized, or excruciating detail as some seem to do. :rolleyes: I find being accountable to making updates to the build thread and receiving feedback and encouragement is a positive motivator.

[Presto51]

I'm just asking this out of curiosity. I ordered my Roadster in February, expected delivery in December, and thus far I've gone through the gamut of emotions. Started out excited, then nervous, followed by complacent, but now I'm developing indifferent and apathetic emotions about the project and I've still got half a year before it delivers.

I'm not sure what this means. For the last decade I've caught myself purchasing toys (mostly motorcycles) that at the time filled an emotional hole with excitement only to have it wane over the course of a year and be sold only to try some different motorcycle in hopes the joy would last. Turns out, 32 motorcycles over 25 years and I'm entirely out of the hobby. For the first time since 1998 have no motorcycles in my garage.

On one hand, I LOVE working with my hands. Building stuff, making things from scratch, etc... I get a lot of happiness out of building stuff. On the other hand, I'm worried that I'll have a blast building a Roadster only to have the excitement wane after a year or so and end up feeling that emptiness I've had many times before.

Perhaps my feelings are unique to me, I dunno. Maybe I should just get a rescue dog at the pound. :p

Well you might want to truthfully ask yourself, are you the type to finish a project to 100% completion, or do you typically go to, almost the finish line and then get complacent and look for something else?

Do you see these types of projects as just lifeless objects, or something that has a sprit to it? ( Yes I'm one of the extreme weird people that think inanimate objects have personality/sprit).

Also to consider, after they have experienced the build, some folks find a level of satisfaction of relating their building, driving stories to the rest of the forum members, which helps others that come after you in building their dream car.

Not a sermon, just some thoughts.

Ron

[OB6]

Well you might want to truthfully ask yourself, are you the type to finish a LARGE project to 100% completion, or do you typically go to, almost the finish line and then get complacent and look for something else?


This is a super important question (I made an edit). I know when I was contemplating a FFR, I looked back at my history of taking on major projects (home reno, cars, boats) and became very confident that I'd have the ability, interest, and time to get it done. That wouldn't have been true 20 years ago.

[MB750]

Sorry if my reply came off on the judgmental side wrt to the entitlement/impatience aspect. It's just that there have been so many POL complaint posts when it's a situation that's really out of everyone's (including FFR's) hands.

I hear what your saying about the let down that can come at the end of build as one transitions into the driving/ownership phase. I already know for myself that the project will never be done, and that there will always be something to update or fix. I think this is one of those questions where one has to look inward and assess how much of a perfectionist (or maybe tinkerer?) they are. How are you as far as maintaining/updating other projects you've completed?

Earl

No worries mate, s'all good. :cool:

I've started and finished many large and small projects, but I do have some started projects that flaked out and been sold as "projects" for a loss just because I completely lost ambition. Most recently was a 94 Harley Road King. I built it up with a HOT 106" Evo engine with many new upgrades but had a number of teething issues keeping the engine together so it was on the drawing board more often than not. Then one day out on the road with a spare donor engine I realized it's still a 1994 Harley and it'll never be as composed and smooth as a 2021 Road King so I just got rid of the whole lot. That was the start of my loss of interest in motorcycling. Now it's a year later and I just sold my only motorcycle.

You're exactly correct about looking inward. I'm trying not to call it a midlife crisis but lately I find myself pondering the "Why's" much more than the "How's" like I used to.

[MB750]

To me there is nothing to go wrong. You'll love the build as you've stated, so that's all good. Then you'll either love the finished product or you won't...no big deal either way IMHO.

Knowing you may not keep it forever, keep resale in mind while you build it. Well built with desirable options they seem to demand a fair price. You might not make money, but you might not lose money either.

If lead times continue this way for a few more years you'll likely be able to sell it to someone wanting some instant gratification for a good price fairly easily.

That's a good point. If I build it to completion and get bored with it down the road there seems to be a good market for getting rid of it, especially down here in Geezerville where a lot of people over 65 seem to have deep pockets. One thing is for certain; a complete Roadster will bring MUCH more than an uncompleted kit so there's incentive to wrap it up.


One suggestion I'd make, I assume you've observed the multiple build threads on here? Highly recommend doing one of those as part of your build. How much detail you provide is up to you. Can be just the high points summarized, or excruciating detail as some seem to do. :rolleyes: I find being accountable to making updates to the build thread and receiving feedback and encouragement is a positive motivator.

Yup, already under way:

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/showthread.php?42189-MB750-s-MKIV-Roadster-build-thread

Still trudging thru the engine though. My garage is hot as hell this time of year so things have slowed down a bit to indoor projects and hobbies.

[golfobsessed71@gmail.com]

If I'm reading your original post I am exactly like you and frankly don't talk about it much... in my mid 50s and been this way most of my life.

The hunt and new purchase (project or not) is always more stimulating than the purchase itself. I have built cars my whole life and grow bored with them quickly and want to move on to the next hunt.

I drive friends, family and my wife crazy... it's a joke with everyone, I always say "I'm gonna keep this one" and people just laugh.

In the last 5 years alone I've had two Vipers, a 63 vette, a 2012 vette, a 33 hotrod and now the roadster, along with a Harley and about a half dozen vintage bikes I've restored.

I get a new vehicle and start looking for another right away, I get a project almost done and start thinking about selling it and hunting for another... always feeling like the hunt and purchase are what I'm after ( I find this to be a character flaw for me) maybe trying to satisfy myself with the next purchase.

Not sure this is what your saying so maybe this is just purging for me ;-)

For what it's worth I purchased my roadster unfinished, drivetrain in but I needed to take the body and paint to the end... considered selling shortly after I got it and was already looking for another along the way. I was convinced (from this forum) to see it to the end and finish it and I'm so glad I did, I love the car and the best part of it for me is I will always be able to do something to this car, small tweaks and additions will keep it fresh for me for some time.

[MB750]

If I'm reading your original post I am exactly like you and frankly don't talk about it much... in my mid 50s and been this way most of my life.

The hunt and new purchase (project or not) is always more stimulating than the purchase itself. I have built cars my whole life and grow bored with them quickly and want to move on to the next hunt.

I drive friends, family and my wife crazy... it's a joke with everyone, I always say "I'm gonna keep this one" and people just laugh.

In the last 5 years alone I've had two Vipers, a 63 vette, a 2012 vette, a 33 hotrod and now the roadster, along with a Harley and about a half dozen vintage bikes I've restored.

I get a new vehicle and start looking for another right away, I get a project almost done and start thinking about selling it and hunting for another... always feeling like the hunt and purchase are what I'm after ( I find this to be a character flaw for me) maybe trying to satisfy myself with the next purchase.

Not sure this is what your saying so maybe this is just purging for me ;-)

For what it's worth I purchased my roadster unfinished, drivetrain in but I needed to take the body and paint to the end... considered selling shortly after I got it and was already looking for another along the way. I was convinced (from this forum) to see it to the end and finish it and I'm so glad I did, I love the car and the best part of it for me is I will always be able to do something to this car, small tweaks and additions will keep it fresh for me for some time.

Spot on. You're my (slightly older) brother from another mother.

I guess to sum up my original thoughts, why the hell can't I just enjoy something for a while? I get bored and antsy too fast.

[delta42]

I'm just asking this out of curiosity. I ordered my Roadster in February, expected delivery in December, and thus far I've gone through the gamut of emotions. Started out excited, then nervous, followed by complacent, but now I'm developing indifferent and apathetic emotions about the project and I've still got half a year before it delivers.

I'm not sure what this means. For the last decade I've caught myself purchasing toys (mostly motorcycles) that at the time filled an emotional hole with excitement only to have it wane over the course of a year and be sold only to try some different motorcycle in hopes the joy would last. Turns out, 32 motorcycles over 25 years and I'm entirely out of the hobby. For the first time since 1998 have no motorcycles in my garage.

On one hand, I LOVE working with my hands. Building stuff, making things from scratch, etc... I get a lot of happiness out of building stuff. On the other hand, I'm worried that I'll have a blast building a Roadster only to have the excitement wane after a year or so and end up feeling that emptiness I've had many times before.

Perhaps my feelings are unique to me, I dunno. Maybe I should just get a rescue dog at the pound. :p


Regardless of your decision, still rescue a dog from the pound.

[cob427sc]

I'm 71 and have been building/rebuilding cars since I was 16. Last time I tried to remeber how many I've owned I stopped counting at 153. I usually do one car a year as a hobby and when I was in business a stress reduction tool. Additionally, as I try to explain to my wife why I need another project, is that I don't go with the "boys" to play cards, gamble or the local bar. These projects keep me at home in the garage. My experience has always been the enjoyment is more in the build than in the drive and I usually roll over cars once I've driven a couple thousand miles. Enjoy the build and if it tires after completion, build another or something else. I'm working on my 7th FFR build now.

[Rdone585]

My garage is hot as hell this time of year so things have slowed down a bit to indoor projects and hobbies.

Lived on FL west coast when I was building. It's hard when your forehead drips sweat onto everything your doing, even wearing a sweatband. Built the dash with as much wiring as I could in the living room. Built the engine in the dining room.

[MB750]

Lived on FL west coast when I was building. It's hard when your forehead drips sweat onto everything your doing, even wearing a sweatband. Built the dash with as much wiring as I could in the living room. Built the engine in the dining room.

I grew up in, and spent 35 years in Wisconsin. The last eight was working for Kohler Generators up in Sheboygan. I got sick of the winters so I left, but now I miss the mild summers.

Don't have to shovel sunshine though, but you damn near have to shovel the humidity this time of year.

[MB750]

I took a nice walk with the wife tonight and we had a chat about this.

Her sentiment was the same as a common theme from this thread; just build it and if you get bored with it, sell it. Her only sticking point was unless unforeseen circumstances warrant, at least finish it. Maybe not paint, but at least a rolling, registered Roadster. Then I can put some miles on it and see if I want to make it 100% or turf it for the next project.

Thanks everyone, I appreciate the feedback.

[mburger]

I am a little late to the party here, but my comments will likely be seen as off the wall but it comes from a place of only wanting to help. All of your projects that you’ve done and the upcoming roadster project aside, you might want to talk with someone about that emptiness you get when a project is completed. While not putting too much emphasis on the word emptiness, there is still something you’re chasing and perhaps it would be good to know what that is and why. It could potentially change your entire outlook not only on this specific project but your life.

[golfobsessed71@gmail.com]

I am a little late to the party here, but my comments will likely be seen as off the wall but it comes from a place of only wanting to help. All of your projects that you’ve done and the upcoming roadster project aside, you might want to talk with someone about that emptiness you get when a project is completed. While not putting too much emphasis on the word emptiness, there is still something you’re chasing and perhaps it would be good to know what that is and why. It could potentially change your entire outlook not only on this specific project but your life.

Amen... for me

[Ted G]

I'm almost 3 months into my build and I tell you, those feelings will go away once you start the build. Every night before bed, I open my garage door, turn the light on and smile! I don't know what I'll do for fun after I complete it.

But yes, I also had some feeling of regret... but again, once you start the build, you can't wait for the next step.

Ted

[JeffP]

I similarly have what I like to call 'Hobby ADD'... and I seem to go in circles - motorcycle, boat, camper, airplane, motorcycle, boat, houses, .. and now the roadster. I haven't had any buyers remorse through the process, but I certainly had my oh-sh*t moment when I saw $50k worth of boxes loaded on a flat bed sitting in my driving and thinking how on earth can *I* turn this into a car that at least when completed retains even just a portion of my residual investment. Fortunately those concerns quickly faded and the excitement of watching it transform from boxes to a driving car took over. I've put 500mi on it in the last month just driving in gel coat and love every mile.

[BradCraig]

Yes, once you start to tally up what it's going to cost to build it! However, even if you end up in the position where you need to unload it (hope not!) you'll have no problem selling at any point of completion for little to no financial loss. Lot of folks waiting in a long line. Good luck!

[svassh]

I didn't get cold feet rather impatience. I ordered a kit in April 2021 for Oct 2021 delivery. By July I had read so much on here and was so anxious to get driving I purchased a used MK2 that needed some help. I ended up enjoying the car so much I cancelled my order. I recently told my family if I ever end up medically unable to make my own decisions and they need to sell one of my cars to get cash.

SELL THE COBRA LAST!

[MB750]

I am a little late to the party here, but my comments will likely be seen as off the wall but it comes from a place of only wanting to help. All of your projects that you’ve done and the upcoming roadster project aside, you might want to talk with someone about that emptiness you get when a project is completed. While not putting too much emphasis on the word emptiness, there is still something you’re chasing and perhaps it would be good to know what that is and why. It could potentially change your entire outlook not only on this specific project but your life.

You're 100% correct about this. I first noticed it a few years ago. I'm 43, and I seem to recall having feelings like this in my mid 30's. I didn't over analyze it at the time because I just thought it was normal boredom, but after a few years of a repeating trend I've become self-aware it's happening. It's not crippling my life, but it's certainly driving me to reflect deeper on most decisions I make, especially the larger ones with a substantial monetary value.

This same thing is happening in regards to where I live. In my mid 30's in 2015 I left Wisconsin for San Diego because I was sick of the weather in WI. Then after a year in San Diego the cost of living started to wear me down so in 2018 we moved to Tampa, FL. Cost of living is much better here in FL (well, in 2018 it was...) so we bought a house and have been making it a home since. The problem is the little quirks of FL are starting to eat away at my complacency about being here and I'm getting that 3-year itch to move on down the road to something less populated and less humid. Now my wife is on to me, she's saying stuff like, "What's to say you won't just grow unhappy wherever we move to next?" Honestly, she's got a point. My only retort is for her to be happy I'm not taking the same philosophy with women. :o

[rthomas98]

You're 100% correct about this. I first noticed it a few years ago. I'm 43, and I seem to recall having feelings like this in my mid 30's. I didn't over analyze it at the time because I just thought it was normal boredom, but after a few years of a repeating trend I've become self-aware it's happening. It's not crippling my life, but it's certainly driving me to reflect deeper on most decisions I make, especially the larger ones with a substantial monetary value.

This same thing is happening in regards to where I live. In my mid 30's in 2015 I left Wisconsin for San Diego because I was sick of the weather in WI. Then after a year in San Diego the cost of living started to wear me down so in 2018 we moved to Tampa, FL. Cost of living is much better here in FL (well, in 2018 it was...) so we bought a house and have been making it a home since. The problem is the little quirks of FL are starting to eat away at my complacency about being here and I'm getting that 3-year itch to move on down the road to something less populated and less humid. Now my wife is on to me, she's saying stuff like, "What's to say you won't just grow unhappy wherever we move to next?" Honestly, she's got a point. My only retort is for her to be happy I'm not taking the same philosophy with women. :o

I feel you and know exactly the feeling you are going through. To be honest the pandemic was the best thing that could of ever happened to me. I left a job when I was in my mid 30s because I did not feel like it was fulfilling me. Bounced around only to return to it now that I am 40. But with the lock down and being at home with my family most of the time it actually re-centered me. I spent the time working on my factory five during that time. Not putting time tables on the work. fyi this forum can help but it can also make you feel slightly inadequate as well, as others get to go-kart or finish faster than you. So I focused on the time I got with the car and more importantly my daughters who both anxiously wanted to help. The car is almost done now (almost 2 years to the date later) and getting ready for the paint shop. I have started planning how I am going to use the car. My daughters once again to the rescue to help with the emptiness. Wanting to be picked up from school, go to car shows. Picking the tunnels to drive it through (there is an awesome set of tunnels through the detroit airport). Because of this the car is becoming more than a project. It is now a precious memory maker with my kids and just like their old school science fair projects will not be cast aside. My oldest is already telling me she wants to be dropped off to school dances in the car. My youngest bought a plastic model cobra to recreate the car. Also the amount of work these need to maintain road worthiness I think I will still be able to work on it regularly (when you see the check list at the back of the manual you'll see what I mean). In short it will live on if you let it and plan for more than just the build.

[Papa]

I think you can boil this down to three general categories.

1. Those that want to build a car

2. Those that want a Cobra to drive

3. Those that want to immerse themselves in the Cobra culture

The first category will often see a car built only to sell once the builder is done. It truly is about the journey more than the destination. I think many of the low mile completed cars for sale are being fed from this category. Especially from those who built great cars, but find the impracticality more than they bargained for.

The second category usually stems from the idea that you can build one for less than you can buy one. I fell that most will discover the opposite or will loose interest and sell the partially completed kit.

The last category are those that just enjoy every aspect of the hobby and Cobras in general. Some will build and sell the cars, but always have their hand in one project or another related to these cars.

[k-roy]

On one hand, I LOVE working with my hands. Building stuff, making things from scratch, etc... I get a lot of happiness out of building stuff. On the other hand, I'm worried that I'll have a blast building a Roadster only to have the excitement wane after a year or so and end up feeling that emptiness I've had many times before.

Perhaps my feelings are unique to me, I dunno. Maybe I should just get a rescue dog at the pound. :p

Emptiness is an interesting word to use. I often use words that sometimes mean something different to others than I intended. If you love the thrill of the chase/build, build it. You can sell it, then build another, or move on to a completely different project. If you find you love the cobra, keep it. A cobra or any other object will never fill the hole. I can't answer that question, and only you can. I do agree with Paul on this being a warning sign. Again, only you can answer this.

Here is my experience so far. Put my order in before Christmas, and will be delivered in Sept. I have had a range of emotions. I ordered a gen 3 coyote, then regretted that and wanted a 427. I am back to loving my decision of a coyote, especially after reading the threads about MPG. I ordered 17 inch rims, but now regret that and want 18. I wanted a radio, now decided against it. Firewall forward? Ceramic coat my headers? I have the "too many options" overload, that makes me question everything.

I also have the "What did I just do?" and "What did I get myself into?" and finally "This is going to be a pain." I especially get this when I look at how much I will end up spending. OR when I want to add Air Conditioning, and Richard Oden tells me it is going to be difficult. Doing inventory? UGH.

I worry that I will never finish. Just had a dryer that went out (started shooting sparks, and smelled like burnt plastic). I pulled the dryer apart, couldn't find the cause (you think I could find melting plastic somewhere). Since it was 10 years old, opted to just buy a new one. I left the dryer apart for a month, before I had to reassemble it for it to be picked up while the new one was being delivered.

My biggest worry is about my health. Had major surgery since I ordered, and have some residual weakness in my arms and hands and question if I can get it completed (I had a hard time putting the sprinkler onto a hose). I do expect to have some recovery before my delivery. Luckily I have family nearby, and my brothers (who just registered their cobra) want to fly in and help a week at a time.

The emotional roller coaster is normal. The question if yours is normal is up to you. At the end of the day, I will find a way around all of my shortcomings. How do I know? This morning I went to pick my kid up from Swim Team, and found myself pretending to drive a cobra, making vroom vroom noises. :D

Best of Luck to you.

[k-roy]

Correction, I was pretending to be driving a cobra, making Vroom Vroom noises. While in my minivan.

[Gizmosrcool]

MB750. We have a few similarities. I ordered my kit last month and hope to have in March 2023. That seems a long way away. My emotions bounce week to week. Some days I am hyped and researching stuff. Others are WTF and what have I done. Those are few.

My normal hobby is a motorcycle and I like long distance rides just completing a 2900 mile trip. Now that I am done with the trip, I need a break, and in a few weeks, will be back. Im down the treasure coast in FL and it’s getting hot. Probably just day ride here and there for the next few months. After riding for so many years, sometimes I love it, sometimes i don't. I take breaks every now and then. Then find the love again. One day I will not find it. That will be sad but ok.

Enter the FF roadster. Something I wanted to do for years. I was waiting for retirement. Given the market and outlook over the next few years, it’s not likely according to plans. The pandemic changed it for me. Tomorrow is not promised. Why wait? Life is and never will be perfect. Or a perfect time. There is always a challenge going on. Even if I won a gazzillion $$ in a lottery, I’d have more problems, and they would be bigger. As I continue to age, I am learning to be more content, and hopefully focus on family, friends, and figure out what makes me and the family happy. That is work in progress. As many have mentioned, it’s the journey and the adventure along the way. I hope to go slow, do what and when I can, get my son and the grandkids involved, and have fun. I am not expecting to make money. $$ is important in life but with hobbies and toys, I figure it is what it is, and do not expect a return.

Your question was great and brave to ask. The great thing about this community is both technical and emotional support and friendships made. I hope you will continue your build and figure out what is needed to slow down, be happy, enjoy the build, enjoy the car, and smell the exhaust fumes. :cool:

Best of luck. Tom

[mburger]

You're 100% correct about this. I first noticed it a few years ago. I'm 43, and I seem to recall having feelings like this in my mid 30's. I didn't over analyze it at the time because I just thought it was normal boredom, but after a few years of a repeating trend I've become self-aware it's happening. It's not crippling my life, but it's certainly driving me to reflect deeper on most decisions I make, especially the larger ones with a substantial monetary value.

This same thing is happening in regards to where I live. In my mid 30's in 2015 I left Wisconsin for San Diego because I was sick of the weather in WI. Then after a year in San Diego the cost of living started to wear me down so in 2018 we moved to Tampa, FL. Cost of living is much better here in FL (well, in 2018 it was...) so we bought a house and have been making it a home since. The problem is the little quirks of FL are starting to eat away at my complacency about being here and I'm getting that 3-year itch to move on down the road to something less populated and less humid. Now my wife is on to me, she's saying stuff like, "What's to say you won't just grow unhappy wherever we move to next?" Honestly, she's got a point. My only retort is for her to be happy I'm not taking the same philosophy with women. :o

One of my favorite quotes is, “Wherever you go, there you are”.
Best of luck in whatever you do.

[AA-ron]

Wow, so I'm not the only one that went through that wide gamut of emotions.
Here's my take. First, my kit is on order and due to arrive in a few months.
I went through all of the exact same feelings as you outlined. I also found myself a little exhausted with the anticipation of the project. I went from thinking about it constantly to feeling surprisingly apathetic towards the whole thing. This shocked and scared me a bit--until I picked up my motor (Thanks Mr Forte), and seeing that sitting in my garage has completely energized me. I bought some vintage Cobra posters, printed off some FFR Roadster posters (hope that's legal), and started decorating my garage. Now I'm right back to being beyond excited and counting the days down to my kit's arrival. I even purchased a 10' x 16' carpet remnant so I'd have a nice soft place to work on it. Carpeting the garage has my family considering an intervention.

[Blitzboy54]

I "only" had to wait 5 months for my kit so I can't relate as much on time. I can say that now that my car is mostly done I can't believe how much fun it is. I am also a bike guy and my best comparison is this thing is like a Ducati 996 in car form. It turns on rails and has power for days. Never mind the lusty stares and slack jaw looks you get when going down the road. Had a guy the other day stop traffic at a green light so he could ask me where I bought it. When I yelled I built it in my garage he was crest fallen.

It wasn't cheap, it wasn't easy but totally worth it.

[BadAsp427]

Well, there you have it. One of the things I hope you also got from all of the posts here is that you are not alone. And I don't just mean that from the aspect of your feelings, but literally, you are not alone with the idea of building one of these awesome fun cars. You have a lot of friends that you don't even know you have. Everyone on the forums here are willing to help in some way or another. You will find the help you get here is better than anything you will find on the social media pages. Just wait until you ask for help in choosing a color to paint it.... Welcome to the first part of the Journey...

[Papa]

If you haven’t seen this review, it sums up my earlier post quite nicely.


https://youtu.be/81OVZnHWd2A

If you still have doubts after watching this, then maybe this isn't the car for you.

[nucjd19]

I am sort of like you. I love projects and working with my hands. I like to think that you are necessarily filling a hole that is unending and needs a new project but rather you have intellectual curiosity and once the curiosity s satiated you look for something else stimulate you intellectually. I suspect you will have quite a few years of tweaking and enjoyment with your rig after you build it. Also the speed at which you build will have a big factor in you looking for another project. When I built mine we were neck deep in the pandemic during the first wave and being a physician I had little knowledge on it at that point. Kids were home with online school and anytime I was off the wife wanted me out of the way. So I would spend 8-10 hour days on my roadster. IT was very therapeutic for me. The next phase for me after paint is finished will be not only driving and local car shows but enjoying the the community I have come to really enjoy the community and friendships that I have been fortunate too have made. Good folks on here.

[MB750]

I am sort of like you. I love projects and working with my hands. I like to think that you are necessarily filling a hole that is unending and needs a new project but rather you have intellectual curiosity and once the curiosity s satiated you look for something else stimulate you intellectually. I suspect you will have quite a few years of tweaking and enjoyment with your rig after you build it. Also the speed at which you build will have a big factor in you looking for another project. When I built mine we were neck deep in the pandemic during the first wave and being a physician I had little knowledge on it at that point. Kids were home with online school and anytime I was off the wife wanted me out of the way. So I would spend 8-10 hour days on my roadster. IT was very therapeutic for me. The next phase for me after paint is finished will be not only driving and local car shows but enjoying the the community I have come to really enjoy the community and friendships that I have been fortunate too have made. Good folks on here.

That's very accurate. As an example, I'm in the middle of putting the engine together at the same time as building a set of boots from scratch (using my own feet cast into plaster, then made an epoxy last to mold the boots off of) along with leather purchased from Tandy Leather, and weekly putting some type of elaborate meal together using some type of new process or ingredients. Last week I made Lamb Korma with brown Jasmine rice and scratch Naan bread. This week is a scratch Pesto chicken and pasta using the basil plants growing on our lanai.

You're right, it's never ending. I've been like this since my early teens. I can't count how many hobbies I've ventured into, large and small.

[MB750]

If you haven’t seen this review, it sums up my earlier post quite nicely.


https://youtu.be/81OVZnHWd2A

If you still have doubts after watching this, then maybe this isn't the car for you.

I've watched that a few times. It's the best review of the Roadster/Cobra I've seen on the internet.

[facultyofmusic]

It's not just you my friend. I kept the emotional wandering at bay by spending time researching on the forum and taking notes on the excellent build threads to prepare for the build. TBH I wish I did more of that. Ha! Seriously though I'm really excited for you. I'm having a blast and I can only wish you'll have one too. Leave the bad feelings for when you accidentally step on a piping hot exhaust pipe, not now. :p

[Jeff Kleiner]

No.

Jeff

[Gumball]

I haven't been very active here of late due to many other projects and just enjoying my FFR (this is 7074's eighth season on the road), but this one sorta called to me, so I'll jump into the fray.

Like many of the commenters, I tend to go through lots of toys - cars and other things. I've had 7074 since I picked it up as a basic kit in Oct '09. There have been a couple times when I've had fleeting thoughts about selling, but unlike all the other cars and stuff that passes through my shop and hands, this one seems to have much more staying power.

That said, I used to hang around with a guy who was like me - always looking for the next car or project. He once said something in passing that became an oft-repeated phrase between us: "it's not the answer." Not to get all deep, but when he said that, I started to wonder "what's the question.... what am I searching for, anyway?" Like others, I always seem to enjoy the hunt, making the deal, and doing a road trip to haul home my next favorite thing. I finally realized that it's not that I was looking for these cars or other stuff to fill a void in my life, but rather, I just really enjoy all those other aspects of finding something cool and bringing it home. There's a certain sense of adventure to heading out with a trailer to look at a project for the first time and then hauling it home - even more so if it involves a really long cross-country trip. Another great eye-opener was when Mrs. Gumball said she learned a long time ago to not get worked up, as I'd soon get tired with it, sell it, and go off on another adventure.

Once I realized that I get most of my enjoyment out of that part of the car hobby, it became clear that selling off something I recently longed for wasn't a character flaw, but rather just the logical next step in the process for clearing the runway for another search. This allows me to enjoy a steady stream of interesting vehicles (and guitars, tools, bicycles, etc., etc., .....) without having to act like Jay Leno and buy more storage buildings.

As mentioned at the outset, my FFR seems to be the exception to this, but I think it's because the build was its own adventure and every drive is one, too. Long haul or short hop around the neighborhood, it doesn't matter - going out in one of these cars always stirs the blood and creates memories.

Best of luck on however you decide - I'm sure it'll be the right thing for you.

Although, here's a little peak of what you get to see on a nice evening when you own one of these cars - and the longer you own it, the more of this you get to do.

[mburger]

Very well said Chris.

[MB750]

Yes, well said and I can relate. As I age I've come to realize that I'm not collecting stuff since I usually sell it when I'm bored, but rather I'm collecting "experiences", which last forever and are very cheap to store.

[Gumball]

Sorta like the old Harley Davidson ad..... little kid asks "Grampa, you had a Harley?"..... grampa responds "no, I bought aluminum siding instead"..... voice over says "don't be that guy."

[nolemons]

The FFR is one of the few cars that actually exceeds expectations. Its more thrilling to drive than a lot of modern cars including a Audi R8 V10. You won't regret/have buyer's remorse later on.

Good luck with the build!

[nolemons]

This review is probably one of the best on Youtube. I haven't seen much that accurately conveys what it's like to drive a well sorted FFR Cobra.

[Namrups]

This review is probably one of the best on Youtube. I haven't seen much that accurately conveys what it's like to drive a well sorted FFR Cobra.

no link ...

[Ducky2009]

I ordered my MK4 Dec 2016 and took delivery Feb 2017, so I didn't have the long wait issue.
What I did do was read the assembly manual several times (electronic copy, $10) before mine arrived. I also read others builds threads, like EdwardB. NOTE: He spends a lot of time documenting with pics and part numbers. He's a great resource. THANKS PAUL

Take this time to plan you build, standard vs adding all the possible extras. Make a list, change your mind, add it back on. IT'S YOUR CHOICE! You have over 100 posts, so, you've been here for a while. List all the things you're thinking about doing and ask others what they would add. Remember, others will spend ALL YOUR MONEY, easily! :rolleyes:

This is a journey! Don't rush it, enjoy it. Find someone near you, visit, ask questions. Most everyone is more than willing to share their experiences, be than good ideas or failures.

PS: Add a signature with build details, engine, trans, rear end, etc. When you ask questions, this will help add clarity to your build and make answering your question easier.