Fantasy Junction

Description

2007 Kirkham Cobra 289 Replica
s/n KC6FNLF0485 (Idaho issued VIN: 013771)
Brushed Aluminum on Black Interior

In 1962 Carroll Shelby combined a 260 c.i. Ford V-8 with an AC Bristol and so the legend of the Cobra was born. When the 260 c.i. was replaced by the 289 c.i. engine, the 289 Cobra began its domination of SCCA B Production and USRRC Championships. To succeed in Europe, eventually it was determined more power was needed as other manufactures were not sitting idle when Carroll Shelby and his team were dominating racetracks. A short time later, Ford supplied the 427 c.i. engine. The larger displacement and greater torque required a stronger vehicle all around. The original 289 chassis and leaf spring suspension were not enough, so subsequently a new tubular chassis was developed, and the Cobra 427 came into existence.

This particular car is a hybrid variation of the dominating FIA version of the mid 1960’s. Combining the sleek and sexy appearance of the original 289 FIA racing car but, in this case, sitting on the stronger and better handling 427 chassis. However, to go even one step better, this particular car has a unique stainless steel chassis rather than mild steel to ensure a durable rust free life. Since the 427 frame was built to handle an engine far heavier and more powerful than the small block, it handles likes a dream with a lightweight small block. The body is all aluminum (aircraft aluminum alloy) and was hand fabricated in an aircraft factory by craftsmen who learn their trade over generations, building fighter jet aircrafts for the former Soviet Union.

Kirkham produces the highest quality aluminum reproduction cars in existence today. They had, until recently, been supplying Shelby America with the aluminum body cars for their continuation CSX4000 (427) and CSX7000 (FIA) series which began production in 1996.

In addition to the all aluminum body, the floor panel, dash panel, rear bulkhead panel, firewall panel, engine compartment panel and trunk panels are all aluminum. In addition, this car’s hood scoop is integrally welded into the hood skin, and slightly enlarged to assist with cooling. This car has a unique brushed Aluminum finish, some 300 hours in the making. This cars raw Aluminum finish allows the car to be cleaned with any ammonia free glass cleaner and paper towel. The engine in this particular example is a Ford based 302 c.i. unit, highly correct in appearance to an original, topped with 4 two-barrel Weber carburetors. The engine is mated to a super smooth shifting, wide ratio 4 speed Top Loader transmission, fitted with a scatter shield. An engine oil cooler is also fitted. There is a fully independent suspension to both the front and rear, with Penske double adjustable shocks on all four corners. The front uprights and upper control arms are billet 6062 aluminum. The rear uprights are forged 7075 aircraft aluminum. These modifications result in a 20 pound reduction in upspring weight at each wheel; in fact the total weight of the car is approximately 2230lbs.

In addition to the stainless steel chassis, stainless steel has been used elsewhere in the vehicle. The brake hard lines are stainless steel and the brake flex lines are braided stainless steel. The main steering shaft is stainless steel as are the steering U-joints. The cockpit sports a gleaming plated steel roll bar. A 4 point harness secures the safety of the driver, while the passenger has a 3 inch lap belt.

The interior is accented with the engine turned and polished transmission tunnel and billet Kirkham pedals, but is otherwise relatively original in appearance including vintage-look gauges, correct shift knob, and wood rimmed steering wheel. A fire extinguisher has been neatly fitted, and wing window assemblies are included, but not installed. As with the original FIA, the foot boxes and trunk floor are fiberglass. The exterior has quick jacks at the rear, replica Halibrand knockoffs with as new Yokohama 235/60R15 tires.

The general appearance of the car is that of a freshly finished and nearly new piece. There is once very small ding from within the left front wheel well, but the car is otherwise without significant cosmetic flaws. Performance is very brisk, yet the car remains very easy to drive at any speed. The car has been professionally assembled and maintained from day one, and enjoyed in fair weather only, as part of a significant collection. Included with the car are regular service notes for tuning and upkeep, as well as a helpful box of spares and extras.

This unique automobile is an extremely versatile model that can tear up the racetrack or be a mild mannered street cruiser. The car has only 2,266 miles, as it has only been to car shows and experienced local street driving. It will bring sheer joy to the potential owner, turn heads wherever it goes, and can accommodate any use the driver has in mind.

The above vehicle information is complete and accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time it is posted to this website. Corrections or additional information is always appreciated. All advertised prices exclude government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer document preparation charge, and any emission testing charge. Vehicles are subject to prior sale. All advertised to be true but not guaranteed. We assume no liability for errors or omissions.

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Fantasy Junction  •  510-653-7555  •  1145 Park Ave, Emeryville, CA 94608