Description
Up for sale is a rather unique AC Cobra replica - this one was factory built by Fiero Factory and carries chassis number 0001.
It was never registered by them, but was purchased in 2014 by my dad, who completed the final touches and got it IVA'd that same year, getting assigned a 1986 registration, avoiding the dreaded Q plate.
Fiero Factory was a UK-based kit car builder active until 2014. We understand this particular car was the factory demo vehicle for their Euro 427 platform. Making it a rare bit of UK Cobra replica history.
It's 5. 0L High Output Chevy V8 engine sounds the part, I've never had it dyno'd, but it has more than enough power to spin up the rear wheels at a moment's notice and sits at motorway speeds happily.
This was a dream car for my father, but he's not just in a position to enjoy it anymore, so it's time for it to go to someone who will appreciate it.
About the Car
Originally painted in the classic blue with white stripes, it’s now been wrapped in Nardo Grey with a black centre stripe and yellow pinstriping, inspired by Superformance MKIII Custom Cobras from the US (- details above). The wrap can be removed to return it to its original classic paint colours underneath.
The lighting was also updated, with the old boxy 90's reverse and fog lights replaced with slimline led units with clear lenses.
The original lighting and trim is included, along with original headlights. Any chrome has been coated in removable black rubberised paint, so it can be taken back to a chrome look if you prefer.
Inside, it’s got a black interior, a Momo Prototipo steering wheel, and custom switchgear and gauges modeled on aircraft dials, in keeping with the theme.
A pair of additional seats sourced from an MX5 are also included as a more comfortable option with headrests.
Mechanics
Power comes from a 305ci (5. 0L) L69 High Output small block Chevy V8, originally fitted to Firebirds, Camaros, and Monte Carlo SS models in the ‘80s.
It burbles away at lower speeds before transforming in noise at high RPM, taking on a much more aggressive note which never gets old.
The chassis is Fiero Factory’s own, which uses a Jag MKII rear end and parts from a Ford Sierra (similar to the Pilgrim Sumo.)
The Sierra cooling system proved to be undercapacity for the 5. 0 V8, so was replaced with a custom built aluminium radiator with uprated fan, silicone hosing and an aluminium header tank.
A brand new battery was also fitted this year.
The car comes with 12 months MOT as of last week with a grand total of just 902 miles on the clock since build.
It’s a bit sad that the car gets so little use, my father is getting on a bit, and hasn't been able to finish the last elements of his build to bring it up to a really lovely spec.
For the last 6 or 7 years it's really only ever used to go to local shows and to the MOT Station and back.
He'd talk about selling it, but then he'd start the engine, take it for a spin, and sale plans are instantly put off until the following spring.
But the time has finally come, and it could be a real car for someone who wants to put their own finishing touches on this car.
The Finishing Touches/ Things to note.
• The windscreen has a crack on the passenger side. It's not in the view of the driver so isn't an MOT fail and consiquently hasn't bothered us too much.
• There are two missing spinners for the wheels. I will attempt to find these for the buyer in the boxes of bits we have for the car, but there’s a risk that these came off ‘in flight’ and will need replacing.
• There’s a minor oil weep from the rocker cover. - We think just from the lack of use.
• We’re pretty sure the fuel gauge doesn’t read correctly, and always shows ‘full. - We top the tank up before taking it anywhere and before storing it, and given the mileage it does, maybe we’ve just never seen it low enough on fuel to move the needle? - Lets assume it’s broken just in case.
• The tyre lettering paint has only been completed on one wheel.
• The starter motor occasionally sticks. - It’s done this from time to time since we’ve owned it, but we’ve never done anything about it because it always starts right after.
Summary
This is a proper, rare bit of kit. Chassis number 0001 with a backstory and a proper American V8 heart under the bonnet. Whether you keep the current restomod look or take it back to its original blue-and-white roots, it’s ready to be used, tweaked, and enjoyed.
She's not a concourse vehicle, and is a little rough around the edges, but is priced competitively with that in mind.
The car is sold as seen and comes with no warranties, but we do guarantee that driving this will put a smile on your face..
