Located in Belville, North Carolina, this 2015 Factory Five Racing 289 USRRC Cobra Replica is a stunning homage to the small-block Cobras that once dominated the United States Road Racing Championship (USRRC) and FIA competitions in the 1960s. With only 6,656 miles on the odometer, this privately owned, meticulously crafted replica is in excellent condition and offers a blend of period-correct aesthetics and modern performance.
Design & Performance
Designed to emulate the iconic 289 Cobra race cars, this replica is based on Factory Five’s renowned MK4 chassis, but with a special slimmed-down body profile. Painted in Electric Blue Metallic, the sleek exterior mirrors the original racing Cobras with the added flair of modern engineering.
Under the hood, you’ll find a 347-cu.in. Stage 4 Windsor V8 crate engine, built by Levy Racing, producing an impressive 450 horsepower. This “stroker” engine features aluminum heads and an intake manifold for optimized performance. The side-exit exhaust system further accentuates the racing vibe, delivering a throaty roar that pays tribute to its heritage.
Backing the powerful engine is a Tremec five-speed manual transmission, which transfers torque to a Ford 8.8-inch rear axle fitted with a limited-slip differential and 3.73 gears. The robust rear end, complete with 31-spline axle shafts, ensures this car is as capable on the road as it looks.
Features & Interior
Professionally assembled by Whitby Motorcars in North Carolina, this Cobra replica features only new parts, eschewing any “donor” components often found in kit cars. The exterior boasts period-correct details such as quick-jack bumpers and dual roll hoops, further enhancing its nostalgic racing look.
Inside, the custom black leather upholstery—with contrasting blue stitching—adds a touch of modern luxury to the classic cockpit. The Intratrim bucket seats, matching shifter boot, and parking brake boot create a seamless, high-quality finish. The wooden instrument panel and chrome-ringed gauges (including a reverse-sweep speedometer) retain the car’s vintage charm. Adding to the authenticity is a wood-rimmed steering wheel, completing the driver-focused experience.
Handling & Braking
This Cobra replica is more than just a looker—its performance matches its aesthetic. Equipped with coilovers at all four corners and four-wheel disc brakes, the car provides precise handling and responsive stopping power. The manual rack-and-pinion steering offers a raw, connected driving experience, reminiscent of the racing Cobras of old. The car rides on Goodyear Eagle tires, mounted to Halibrand-style replica wheels with authentic-looking knockoff hubs.
Condition & Additional Information
With just over 6,600 miles on the clock, the car remains in fantastic condition, with the Electric Blue Metallic paintwork free from blemishes, according to the seller. There are no reported needs or imperfections, and the car is ready for its next owner to enjoy both on the street and at car shows.
Summary of Key Specs:
- Engine: 347-cu.in. OHV Stage 4 Windsor V8 (450 horsepower)
- Transmission: Tremec five-speed manual
- Rear Axle: Ford 8.8-inch with limited-slip differential, 3.73 gears
- Mileage: 6,656 miles
- Exterior Color: Electric Blue Metallic
- Interior: Black leather with blue stitching
- Brakes: Four-wheel disc brakes
- Wheels: Halibrand-style replica wheels with knockoff hubs
Source: hemmings.com
This article was crafted with assistance from Chatgpt
