The 1965 Factory Five Shelby Cobra Replica remains a favorite for enthusiasts who want the classic roadster look without the fragility of a vintage drivetrain. This specific build bridges the gap between eras by utilizing a modern Ford Performance crate engine. Finished in a striking blue, it provides the visceral open-air experience that made the original Shelby famous in the sixties.
Modern Coyote V8 Powerplant Integration
At the center of this 1965 Factory Five Shelby Cobra Replica is a Ford Performance Gen 3 Coyote 5.0L V8 engine. This crate engine offers modern reliability and high-revving performance that far exceeds the original carbureted powerplants. Furthermore, the fuel-injected setup ensures the car starts effortlessly and runs smoothly regardless of the current weather conditions.
Tremec Transmission and Drivetrain Strength
Drivers manage the immense power through a Tremec TKO 600 five-speed manual transmission. This gearbox is known for its ability to handle high torque loads while providing a crisp shifting experience. A dedicated 5-speed layout allows for better highway cruising RPMs compared to the traditional four-speed units found in older replicas.
Chassis Engineering and Suspension Layout
This 1965 Factory Five Shelby Cobra Replica benefits from an independent rear suspension for superior handling characteristics. Unlike a live-axle setup, this configuration allows each wheel to react independently to road imperfections. Koni coilovers are fitted at all four corners to provide a balanced ride that remains flat through high-speed cornering.
Stopping Power via Wilwood Disc Brakes
Safety is a primary focus of this build, highlighted by the installation of Wilwood disc brakes. These high-performance stoppers provide consistent feel and significantly reduced fading during spirited driving sessions. They sit behind classic wheels, offering a subtle hint at the modern engineering hidden beneath the iconic fiberglass bodywork.
Custom Cockpit and Speedhut Gauges
Inside the cabin, the driver faces a set of Speedhut custom gauges designed specifically for this application. These instruments provide accurate real-time data while maintaining the vintage aesthetic required for a 1965 Factory Five Shelby Cobra Replica. The black interior remains simple and purposeful, keeping the focus entirely on the driving experience.
Performance Specifications and Engine Output
The Gen 3 Coyote V8 delivers exceptional power through the Tremec 5-speed manual transmission to the rear wheels. This modern 5.0L engine is rated for high horsepower and torque, providing a power-to-weight ratio that is truly staggering. Combined with the Wilwood brakes and Koni coilovers, the roadster delivers a precise and aggressive performance profile.
Summary of a Modern Classic
This 1965 Factory Five Shelby Cobra Replica represents the best of both worlds for the modern collector. It offers the legendary curb appeal of a mid-sixties icon with the heart of a contemporary Ford Mustang. It remains a well-sorted machine that is ready for the auction block and the winding roads that follow.
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Source: mecum.com
