1998 SUPERFORMANCE MKIII COBRA S/C REPLICA

This Superformance MkIII Cobra S/C is a wonderful recreation of the iconic 1960s muscle car, presented in excellent condition. It is powered by a 5.7-litre (351 cu in) naturally aspirated Ford ‘Windsor’ V8 producing around 400bhp, coupled to a five-speed Tremec manual transmission and driven through a limited-slip differential. The odometer indicates 2,330 miles, but the correct mileage is understood to be 12,500 miles from new.

The Superformance MkIII is notable for being the only Cobra replica built under license from Carroll Shelby, with the man himself stating that these cars are “as close to correct and well-built as possible”.

The MkIII body is manufactured in hand-laid fibreglass to exacting specifications by specialist Hi-Tech Automotive, with steel tube reinforcements in all openings. It is bonded to a jig-welded ladder frame of robust 2-inch by 4-inch rectangular steel tubing with large diameter outriggers, incorporating front and rear crumple zones. It is equipped with Ohlins dampers, and Wilwood ventilated disc brakes. In short, the Superformance cars should not be confused with cheaper and less precise replicas.

This particular car is understood to have been built in 1998 in left-hand drive, and was first registered overseas. It was acquired by its first UK owner via performance car specialist Clive Sutton in 2009, and was registered here in September of that year. The Cobra was subsequently sent to Le Mans Coupes in West Sussex - the current Superformance UK agent - for a £6,200 recommissioning overhaul. The second owner acquired it in 2018.

The seller is the third private owner from new, though they have not yet registered the log book in their name. Having only acquired the Cobra three months ago, they notified the DVLA of their intention to export the car, with the plan to ship it to Portugal. However, with some restrictions on movement due to Covid-19, they have decided to offer it for sale as it is still in the UK.

The bodywork is in excellent condition, with no unsightly dents or other damage, and with impressive shut lines around the doors, bonnet and boot. Its metallic blue paint with twin white racing stripes is a classic Cobra colour combination, and the finish remains in superb order around the body. The only blemishes appear to be some stone chips around the front from road use.

The attention to detail around the car is wonderful, featuring the metal ‘quick jack’ bumper struts, chrome bezels around the light fittings, and stone guard meshes for the headlights. Its windscreen has positionable quarter panels at each side, and tinted sun visors. This MkIII rides on 15-inch Halibrand-style wheels, with painted centres and polished rims, which are in very good order with few blemishes.

Its simple cabin is equipped with two classic bucket seats, upholstered in fluted black leather. The trim remains in great shape, with only very light wear. There is a full complement of Smiths and Lucas instrument gauges, as well as smart metal toggle switches and twist knobs. There is black carpeting throughout the interior, along with an armrest between the seats, and a Peltor FMT120 in-car intercom system for driver and passenger.

Following the recommissioning work in 2009, the car still starts, runs, and drives very well. It is accompanied by a very good history file containing numerous receipts for previous work and old MOT certificates. The Superformance folder and MkIII owner’s manual is also present.

The most recent MOT test was on 25 June 2018 at an indicated 2,093 miles, which resulted in a first-time pass with no advisories. The wheels are fitted with Avon CR6ZZ tyres in size 245/60 R15 at the front and 295/50 R15 at the rear.

This Superperformance MkIII Cobra S/C recreation is a thrilling and attention-grabbing sports car. It is presented in superb condition throughout, and would be a fantastic addition to any collection. As the only Cobra replica that is licensed with approval of Carroll Shelby himself, the Superformance MkIII stands out from lesser examples. If you have always wanted to experience the performance of a Cobra, but have been waiting for a replica with the right credentials, then this is an opportunity not to be missed.