Cobra for street/track car--

rshelbygt · 06-04-2002, 07:13 PM

Which Cobra (excluding R models) would be recommended as a starting point for a street/track car. The car will only be driven around 5,000 miles a year on the street and will see around 7-10 open track events each year (for now). Ride quality/comfort on the street is not a major concern...great handling is! I am considering purchasing a Cobra for two reasons- 1. It's a better starting point than a GT and 2. I've always wanted a Cobra. So what would you recommend? 93, 94-95, 96-98? Thanks in advance--Jason

thomasmoran1 · 06-04-2002, 08:54 PM

I would think that your best bet would be a 94-95 cobra because it is a SN 95 with a five-liter. There are a ton of really good suspension parts out there for them (such as Griggs if you are going to make it a mostly track car). The good thing about that model too is that they come with the 13-inch front brakes, which are a must on a road course. If you do get into open tracking then I would recommend that you get at least a custom six point cage and then put in some belts and FIA approved seats. That might sound a little extreme but if you are going to be out on the track as much as you say you are then you will be thankful you have all that stuff if you ever have to use it.

When you start modifying stuff on the car focus just on safety, brakes and suspension first. Don't even worry about the engine until you have a couple of years of experience. The great thing about the five-liter is that when you do start to improve it you can get them to make a ton of horsepower for fairly cheap compared to the 4.6. Plus they are cheaper to maintain than a 4.6.

On a road course how much horsepower you have matters very little. Just ask any of the SCMCers who were at road Atlanta and say a guy in an 85 Olds Calais with a nearly stock engine lap faster than most of us in 300+ hp.

Talk to you soon
Thomas

98banana · 06-04-2002, 08:56 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by rshelbygt
Which Cobra (excluding R models) would be recommended as a starting point for a street/track car. The car will only be driven around 5,000 miles a year on the street and will see around 7-10 open track events each year (for now). Ride quality/comfort on the street is not a major concern...great handling is! I am considering purchasing a Cobra for two reasons- 1. It's a better starting point than a GT and 2. I've always wanted a Cobra. So what would you recommend? 93, 94-95, 96-98? Thanks in advance--Jason

My vote would be 93. Here's why...

1) I think they are lighter. Not real sure about this one.

2) Cheaper parts for the motor, but that advantage goes with the 94-95 also.

3) More suspension aftermarket support for the fox-body than sn95. Here again, I think.

johnbasf · 06-04-2002, 08:57 PM

Any Cobra is a good start.

I would go with the pushrod motor. Cheaper to mod.

johnbasf · 06-04-2002, 08:58 PM

Tom, are we having pushrod envy??

98banana · 06-04-2002, 09:00 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by johnbasf
Tom, are we having pushrod envy??

I just ripped a lot of stuff off of the front of my motor and deep down, I was kind of hoping to see some damage. That's all I need is an excuse.

See my post in a few minutes to see what I found...

thomasmoran1 · 06-04-2002, 09:23 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by 98banana

My vote would be 93. Here's why...

1) I think they are lighter. Not real sure about this one.

2) Cheaper parts for the motor, but that advantage goes with the 94-95 also.

3) More suspension aftermarket support for the fox-body than sn95. Here again, I think.

Tom, did the 93's come with the 5 lug spindals? If they didn't then what would the cost be to upgrade them? Not sure about this one but I think someone once told me that the stock 93 wheels are very heavy. Can anyone tell me if that one is true or not?

Thomas

98banana · 06-04-2002, 09:38 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by thomasmoran1

Tom, did the 93's come with the 5 lug spindals? If they didn't then what would the cost be to upgrade them? Not sure about this one but I think someone once told me that the stock 93 wheels are very heavy. Can anyone tell me if that one is true or not?

Thomas

I'm pretty sure they came with the upgraded brakes with 5 lug. Somebody correct me if I'm wrong. Rob??? If they don't though, then I would suggest a 94-95 as well.

The stock wheels shouldn't be an issue since they need to be replaced with wider ones on all models anyway.

Black Snake · 06-04-2002, 09:39 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by thomasmoran1

Tom, did the 93's come with the 5 lug spindals? If they didn't then what would the cost be to upgrade them? Not sure about this one but I think someone once told me that the stock 93 wheels are very heavy. Can anyone tell me if that one is true or not?

Thomas

Yeah, Fox bodies are 4-lug. Plus the brakes suck. As far as the wheels being heavy... well it's all relative. What's heavy to you may be just fine to me (i.e. I have no idea how heavy the wheels are).

Edit: The 93 Cobra R's did come in 5-lug. But the LX/GT/Cobra are 4-lug.

94-95 would be my choice. You start with a good platform and you have a 5.0L motor to mod (read as cheap and easy). Plus the money you save by purchasing an older car can go into more mods.

thomasmoran1 · 06-04-2002, 09:45 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by 98banana

I'm pretty sure they came with the upgraded brakes with 5 lug. Somebody correct me if I'm wrong. Rob??? If they don't though, then I would suggest a 94-95 as well.

The stock wheels shouldn't be an issue since they need to be replaced with wider ones on all models anyway.

I think that only the Cobra R had the 5 lugs and the big brakes. But they only made 107 or something like that. Could be wrong on both points. Good point about the wheels thou.

thomas

98banana · 06-04-2002, 09:46 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Black Snake

...
Edit: The 93 Cobra R's did come in 5-lug. But the LX/GT/Cobra are 4-lug.
...

Ahhh, that's what I'm thinking of...

justagt · 06-05-2002, 09:01 AM

My suggestion would be, since it is for a track car, to just get a Fox body like Tom suggested and build it how you want it. That way, if it does get torn up, you don't kill a Cobra. Besides, the '93 Cobras are the best looking Mustangs ever built IMHO and I hate to see one torn up.

SIUNARA · 06-05-2002, 09:30 AM

Well, my opinion may not be totally objective but here it is...

94/95 Cobra for sure

Why:

1) BIG brakes: upgrade to SB lines, good pads and fluid, and cooling ducts and you're done. Remove dust plates too. Not to worry on that, we had mine off in LESS than 10 minutes the other day.

2) 5.0 engine...you want one...I know you do...so forget about the 96 to 98...you've already got a 4.6 in the garage...get back into a 5.0!!

3) Chassis stiffness...you give up some weight advantages by going with the SN-95 over the fox but you gain with chassis stiffness. Besides...you can go see Tom for the weight loss program...he's got that covered for sure!!

4) 93 Cobras are BIG bucks!! Even if you find one that isn't in great shape, they still want way more than you'd pay for a decent 94/95 Cobra...and you're limited to three colors, may sound dumb...but you have to get somthing you're completely satisfied with.

5) Because it would kick royal a$$ for us to have similar cars we can build up together!!

I'll let you drive the Cobra when I see you in a few weeks...that will make up your mind for sure. With the addition of the race springs and LCA's, along with what it already had on it...it handles and brakes GREAT...and there are still plenty of parts to add to it...which means it can only get better!! Ice to eskimos buddy...ice to eskimos...you'll be driving a 94/95 Cobra if I have ANYTHING to do with this process!!!!!

I'll call you later tonight to discuss this further!!

**cobrabitn** · 06-05-2002, 12:58 PM

I love my 99 Cobra. It has power galore and it will tear my 94 Cobra up on the dragstrip but...... I also like the 94. The ride quality is much better then the 93 Fox Body.... sorry Rob but I have had both cars so this is a fair ruling and my personal opinion.

Anyway, the ride quality is better. It still has the 5.0 in it and can easily be modified for a lower cost. It has big brakes and handles much better then the fox body right out of the box. I wouldn't say the 93's cost more. That depends on mileage but I can say that a fellow SCMC sold his 95 Cobra, bought a 93 Cobra, and sold it so he can get back into a 94/95 Cobra. When I asked him why? He said "it rides better and is a little heavier so it plants better in the bad weather".

All in all, it comes down to the following factors:

How much $$$ you want to spend
Which body style do you like better
What kind of ride comfort do you like

I have to say that Rob's 93 is probably the best looking highly modified 93 I have seen. I would go for the 5 lugs, better brakes, better handling, and most enjoyable ride on the street. But you are the final judge so make an educated decision and go for it.

Lastly, when you get that Cobra, join SCMC. It'll be the best $15.00 you spent anywhere!

rshelbygt · 06-05-2002, 08:59 PM

Thank you for all of the replies...I really appreciate it!

I think I am going to start researching the 94/95 Cobras. I've had three Fox bodies and three SN95's (even had a "Cobra-clone" Kenne Bell supercharged 94 convertible- Lazer red with white leather and top...traded it in Monroe, NC in 98...anyone seen that car around???) ...I must say I am more comfortable in the SN95...and I love the 5.0 engine.

Are there any specific issues/problems that I should look for with the 94/95 Cobras? Also, what should I expect to pay for a nice example? Finally...for open tracking, what would be the first mods you would do? Trying to get my budget in line.......

Thanks again for the replies so far! --Jason

06-04-2002, 07:13 PM	#1
rshelbygt Registered User Join Date: Mar 2002 Location: Columbia, SC Posts: 108	Cobra for street/track car-- Which Cobra (excluding R models) would be recommended as a starting point for a street/track car. The car will only be driven around 5,000 miles a year on the street and will see around 7-10 open track events each year (for now). Ride quality/comfort on the street is not a major concern...great handling is! I am considering purchasing a Cobra for two reasons- 1. It's a better starting point than a GT and 2. I've always wanted a Cobra. So what would you recommend? 93, 94-95, 96-98? Thanks in advance--Jason

06-04-2002, 08:54 PM	#2
thomasmoran1 Registered User Join Date: Feb 2002 Location: toronto Posts: 222	I would think that your best bet would be a 94-95 cobra because it is a SN 95 with a five-liter. There are a ton of really good suspension parts out there for them (such as Griggs if you are going to make it a mostly track car). The good thing about that model too is that they come with the 13-inch front brakes, which are a must on a road course. If you do get into open tracking then I would recommend that you get at least a custom six point cage and then put in some belts and FIA approved seats. That might sound a little extreme but if you are going to be out on the track as much as you say you are then you will be thankful you have all that stuff if you ever have to use it. When you start modifying stuff on the car focus just on safety, brakes and suspension first. Don't even worry about the engine until you have a couple of years of experience. The great thing about the five-liter is that when you do start to improve it you can get them to make a ton of horsepower for fairly cheap compared to the 4.6. Plus they are cheaper to maintain than a 4.6. On a road course how much horsepower you have matters very little. Just ask any of the SCMCers who were at road Atlanta and say a guy in an 85 Olds Calais with a nearly stock engine lap faster than most of us in 300+ hp. Talk to you soon Thomas __________________ Any part that doesn't make you go fast, stop harder, turn better or make your car safer is totally USELESS!!!

06-04-2002, 08:57 PM	#4
johnbasf Registered User Join Date: Jun 2001 Location: Lewisville,NC Posts: 2,674	Any Cobra is a good start. I would go with the pushrod motor. Cheaper to mod. __________________ John Pearson

06-04-2002, 08:58 PM	#5
johnbasf Registered User Join Date: Jun 2001 Location: Lewisville,NC Posts: 2,674	Tom, are we having pushrod envy?? __________________ John Pearson

06-05-2002, 09:01 AM	#12
justagt Registered User Join Date: Aug 2001 Location: Salisbury, NC Posts: 299	My suggestion would be, since it is for a track car, to just get a Fox body like Tom suggested and build it how you want it. That way, if it does get torn up, you don't kill a Cobra. Besides, the '93 Cobras are the best looking Mustangs ever built IMHO and I hate to see one torn up. __________________ Will #32 joegibbsracingoil.com

06-05-2002, 09:30 AM	#13
SIUNARA Registered User Join Date: Mar 2002 Location: State College, Pa. Posts: 374	Well, my opinion may not be totally objective but here it is... 94/95 Cobra for sure Why: 1) BIG brakes: upgrade to SB lines, good pads and fluid, and cooling ducts and you're done. Remove dust plates too. Not to worry on that, we had mine off in LESS than 10 minutes the other day. 2) 5.0 engine...you want one...I know you do...so forget about the 96 to 98...you've already got a 4.6 in the garage...get back into a 5.0!! 3) Chassis stiffness...you give up some weight advantages by going with the SN-95 over the fox but you gain with chassis stiffness. Besides...you can go see Tom for the weight loss program...he's got that covered for sure!! 4) 93 Cobras are BIG bucks!! Even if you find one that isn't in great shape, they still want way more than you'd pay for a decent 94/95 Cobra...and you're limited to three colors, may sound dumb...but you have to get somthing you're completely satisfied with. 5) Because it would kick royal a$$ for us to have similar cars we can build up together!! I'll let you drive the Cobra when I see you in a few weeks...that will make up your mind for sure. With the addition of the race springs and LCA's, along with what it already had on it...it handles and brakes GREAT...and there are still plenty of parts to add to it...which means it can only get better!! Ice to eskimos buddy...ice to eskimos...you'll be driving a 94/95 Cobra if I have ANYTHING to do with this process!!!!! I'll call you later tonight to discuss this further!! __________________ Don Page 95 Cobra

06-05-2002, 12:58 PM	#14
cobrabitn Dr Jekyll on the street, Mr Hyde on the track Join Date: Jun 2001 Location: Rock Hill SC Posts: 14,649	I love my 99 Cobra. It has power galore and it will tear my 94 Cobra up on the dragstrip but...... I also like the 94. The ride quality is much better then the 93 Fox Body.... sorry Rob but I have had both cars so this is a fair ruling and my personal opinion. Anyway, the ride quality is better. It still has the 5.0 in it and can easily be modified for a lower cost. It has big brakes and handles much better then the fox body right out of the box. I wouldn't say the 93's cost more. That depends on mileage but I can say that a fellow SCMC sold his 95 Cobra, bought a 93 Cobra, and sold it so he can get back into a 94/95 Cobra. When I asked him why? He said "it rides better and is a little heavier so it plants better in the bad weather". All in all, it comes down to the following factors: How much $$$ you want to spend Which body style do you like better What kind of ride comfort do you like I have to say that Rob's 93 is probably the best looking highly modified 93 I have seen. I would go for the 5 lugs, better brakes, better handling, and most enjoyable ride on the street. But you are the final judge so make an educated decision and go for it. Lastly, when you get that Cobra, join SCMC. It'll be the best $15.00 you spent anywhere! __________________ Cobrabitn 2016 Ruby Red Metallic with Caribou accent F-350 Crew Cab Stump Puller! 6.7 Diesel Automatic with Chrome Package, Off Road Package, 3.55 Locking axles, and Ultimate Lariat Interior Trim Package! 2017 Shelby GT350 Coupe - track car! Mods: JLT True Cold Air oil catch can 2009 Vista Blue Shelby GT 500 Coupe - Garage Queen Tinted Windows JLT True Cold Air Kit Pro-Dyno Tune 526 rwhp - 511 rwtq 1994 Rio Red Indy Pace Car #22 "Runabout" Snake in the grill MGW shift knob 1996 SVT Cobra Wheels 1969 New Lime Mustang Mach 1 Sportsroof - Second owner - bone stock with shaker. One SVT Cobra, one Shelby GT500, one 69 mach 1, and a Shelby GT350 is better than nothing! Custom Data Plates for your Mustang or Ford! Buy "Cool Merchandise" at Data Plates Plus www.dataplatesplus.com See my MSR Video here!

06-05-2002, 08:59 PM	#15
rshelbygt Registered User Join Date: Mar 2002 Location: Columbia, SC Posts: 108	Thank you for all of the replies...I really appreciate it! I think I am going to start researching the 94/95 Cobras. I've had three Fox bodies and three SN95's (even had a "Cobra-clone" Kenne Bell supercharged 94 convertible- Lazer red with white leather and top...traded it in Monroe, NC in 98...anyone seen that car around???) ...I must say I am more comfortable in the SN95...and I love the 5.0 engine. Are there any specific issues/problems that I should look for with the 94/95 Cobras? Also, what should I expect to pay for a nice example? Finally...for open tracking, what would be the first mods you would do? Trying to get my budget in line....... Thanks again for the replies so far! --Jason

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