Which FFR Cobra? - Are the Older FFR Cobras Still Desirable? Opinions.....

[Breckenkamp]

I am sure this topic has been broached before on this forum, so please excuse my newbiness for possibly bringing up old stuff......
I am relatively new to the world of cobras and replicas (I've been a 4x4 guy all my life) and have started to really try and hunt down a cobra replica. The FFR cobras are really attractive to me because of the factory and owner support. When I first started looking at the FFRs I thought I had to have a MKIII or MKIV. Period. I didn't want anything old. However, I am seeing some really nice cars out there that are MKIIs and even original Factory Five Cobras (MKI??) that go back to the 90s. Is there any reason to turn one's nose up at these cars? Anything so compelling as to make me save up a little more and hold out for the newer car? The changes between the different kits / Marks through the years seem to be innovative, but not to the point they render the older cars undesirable. Am I correct with that assumption? I'd love to hear from anyone that would like to chip in how they like their MKI/MKIIs. Would they buy them again or hold out for a newer model? Why do they like them over newer versions....or not. Like I said I am seeing a good few of these older cars for sale, and some with what I considered pretty hefty ($40-50K) price tags for a car pushing 30 years old. I am looking at one with a build tag FFR1227K.....I am guessing an antique. But it appears to be a great car. I'll take any recommendations / help with sorting this out in my marble sized brain. Thank you!!
Bob

[edwardb]

You put this in the ask Factory Five tech section because you're expecting an answer from Factory Five? I wouldn't expect that as they don't actively monitor this forum area. Plus this is maybe a more subjective question than a technical one. You might do better over in the general Roadster area. A couple responses from my side though. First, of course there are good Mk1's and Mk2's out there. Lots of things have been added along the way that maybe make the newer more featured or arguably better. But I wouldn't rule the early ones out on that reason alone. Personally, I'd simply be more concerned about their physical age and the overall condition. Just like you would shopping for any older vehicle. I'd also be looking at the suspensions. Compare more current models with improved front suspension components, newer (2015+) IRS setups, etc. versus basic donor setups that were more common in the past. Potentially makes a big difference in how they drive, the ride quality, etc. which could really affect your enjoyment of the car. I'd strongly encourage you to look for owners in your area so you can compare newer models with older. Even get rides. You'll learn a lot if this is all new to you. Prices have softened slightly I think, but still strong compared to what they were even just a few years ago. So it's no surprise to me that sellers are asking strong prices for older models. And of course newer ones are higher too.

[cob427sc]

I have owned/built both a Mark I and a MarkIII along with other FFR models. The Mark I was built in 1997 and compared with the later versions there are definitely some improvements in the overall body which are nice to have but not what I would consider a stumbling block. Early cars did not have the reinforced hood or even a hinge assembly. Doors have gone from a basic shell to a more substantial piece with an interior layer. Door hinge system is vastly improved, etc., but if the car was assembled properly I wouldn't hold anything against it. Also most of these cars don't see a lot of mileage or abuse so even age wise it's old, the car itself should be in reasonable shape. As far as the frame is concerned, I know there have been some upgrades and changes but the general design remains basically the same. There are several cars out there that have been driven hundreds of thousands of miles and many more raced extensively that have performed well over time without the new enhancements. I would suggest taking edwardb's advice and find an early car to look at and at least ride in then compare to a later model and se if it's worth spending the extra money.

[Breckenkamp]

You put this in the ask Factory Five tech section because you're expecting an answer from Factory Five? I wouldn't expect that as they don't actively monitor this forum area. Plus this is maybe a more subjective question than a technical one. You might do better over in the general Roadster area. A couple responses from my side though. First, of course there are good Mk1's and Mk2's out there. Lots of things have been added along the way that maybe make the newer more featured or arguably better. But I wouldn't rule the early ones out on that reason alone. Personally, I'd simply be more concerned about their physical age and the overall condition. Just like you would shopping for any older vehicle. I'd also be looking at the suspensions. Compare more current models with improved front suspension components, newer (2015+) IRS setups, etc. versus basic donor setups that were more common in the past. Potentially makes a big difference in how they drive, the ride quality, etc. which could really affect your enjoyment of the car. I'd strongly encourage you to look for owners in your area so you can compare newer models with older. Even get rides. You'll learn a lot if this is all new to you. Prices have softened slightly I think, but still strong compared to what they were even just a few years ago. So it's no surprise to me that sellers are asking strong prices for older models. And of course newer ones are higher too.

Thanks for your help!! I will post this elsewhere per your recommendation.