1965 Superformance MKIII Cobra

This 1965 Superformance MKIII Cobra roadster is a custom-built replica of the Shelby Cobra that has been driven 26,217 miles since it was built in 1997. The 351ci Windsor V8 has been upgraded with auxiliary cooling equipment, chrome-finished valve covers, and a four-barrel carburetor, sending power to a set of Halibrand-style wheels through a Tremec 5-speed manual transmission and a 3.73 rear end. Finished in black over a black leather interior, this Cobra replica is now offered on consignment with a clear title.

This Cobra re-creation began life as a Superformance MKIII replica kit car built under license from Carroll Shelby Licensing. It bears chassis #SP00300 and was assembled between 1996 and 1997, riding on a jig-welded ladder frame with rectangular steel tubing along with hand-laid fiberglass body panels. The exterior is painted black and features Jet-Hot-coated side exhaust pipes, a chrome tubular roll bar, chrome over-riders, a hood scoop, fender vents, chrome-rimmed headlamps, and dual side mirrors.

Halibrand-style wheels with three-spoke knock-off spinners are wrapped in staggered-width Cobra GT tires sized 255/60 at the front and 275/60 at the rear. Stopping power comes from ventilated four-wheel discs. The independent suspension has unequal-length A-arms and adjustable shocks. The steering system utilizes a rack-and-pinion setup.

The two-seat interior is fitted with black leather bucket seats, matched to the door panels, center console, dash, and carpeting. The seats are fitted with 3-inch lap belts and harnesses. Additional features include a wood steering wheel with a Cobra horn button, AC-branded pedals, a chrome shift lever, a fire extinguisher, and an under-dash JVC AM/FM/CD head unit with speakers mounted behind the seats.

Instrumentation includes a 160-mph speedometer, an 8K-rpm tachometer, and gauges for the oil pressure, fuel level, coolant temperature, and voltage. The odometer reads 26,217 miles, which reflects the mileage accrued since the completion of the build.

The 351ci Windsor V8 has a four-barrel carburetor, Cobra valve covers, a chrome-finished air cleaner, braided stainless steel lines, an overflow tank, and Taylor ignition wires. Cooling comes from an aluminum-core radiator with two electric fans, an oil cooler, and engine louvers. Power is sent to the rear wheels through a Tremec TR3550 5-speed manual transmission and a 3.73:1 rear differential. The photo carousel to the right contains images showing the engine, transmission, and rear-end numbers.

Additional photos showing the underside are available in the carousel.

This replica is registered under California’s “Special Construction” classification and is exempt from smog testing in that state. It is registered as a 2000 SPCN Cobra