The Factory Five Racing Mk4 Roadster remains the world’s best-selling vintage-style kit for a reason, blending the legendary aesthetics of the 1960s with modern chassis engineering. This particular example was acquired as a kit in 2020 and meticulously assembled by the seller, reaching completion in late 2022. Registered in Arizona as a 1965 FFRI, it offers a visceral open-air driving experience with just 4,100 miles on the digital odometer. It represents a professional-level execution of a classic silhouette, updated with contemporary fuel injection and a robust powertrain.
Classic Silhouette in Metallic Blue and White
The fiberglass bodywork is finished in a striking metallic blue, accented by traditional white over-the-top racing stripes that emphasize its muscular curves. Functional exterior details include a prominent hood scoop, wind wings, and a single chrome roll hoop for a period-correct competition look. The car sits with an aggressive stance on 17-inch Halibrand-style wheels, while side-exit exhaust pipes provide the signature soundtrack of a small-block V8. Minor nicks are noted near the exhaust supports, a testament to the car’s use on the open road.
Bespoke Cabin with Performance Instrumentation
Inside the cockpit, black upholstery covers low-back bucket seats featuring Breeze Automotive adjustable mounts for improved ergonomics. The interior is finished with Herb Fraser door panels and Simpson racing harnesses to keep occupants secure during spirited maneuvers. A three-spoke steering wheel fronts a comprehensive suite of gauges, including a 180-mph GPS speedometer and a Russ Thompson self-canceling turn-signal kit. Practical additions like a lockable glovebox and a windshield-mounted rearview mirror ensure that this roadster remains usable for more than just track days.
BluePrint 347 V8 and Tremec Five-Speed Manual
Performance is delivered by a 347ci V8 sourced from BluePrint Engines, which utilizes a Holley Sniper fuel-injection system for reliable power delivery in all conditions. The engine is further enhanced by MSD ignition components and tubular exhaust headers that feed the side pipes. This setup is linked to a Tremec TKO-600 five-speed manual transmission and an 8.8-inch rear end, providing a mechanical feel that is both raw and refined. While horsepower and torque figures are not explicitly stated, the 347 stroker platform is a factory benchmark for high-revving reliability and significant torque output.
| Technical Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Engine | 347ci V8 (BluePrint Engines) |
| Fuel System | Holley Sniper EFI |
| Transmission | Tremec TKO-600 5-Speed Manual |
| Suspension | Adjustable Coilovers / 3-Link Rear |
| Wheels/Tires | 17-inch Halibrand-Style / Nitto NT555 G2 |
| Steering | Power-Assisted |
Market Standing Against Heritage Competitors
The Factory Five Racing Mk4 Roadster occupies a unique position in the market, often compared to offerings from Superformance or Backdraft Racing. However, the Mk4 is celebrated for its rigid CAD-designed frame and the ability to customize every aspect of the build, as seen with the premium BluePrint and Holley Sniper components here. Compared to high-dollar aluminum-bodied continuations, this fiberglass roadster offers similar performance and aesthetics at a more accessible price point. Its unique selling point remains the modern 2022 completion date, ensuring that all hardware is fresh and current.
A Turn-Key Build with Modern Reliability
Ownership of a modern kit build like this involves significantly less maintenance than an original 1960s vehicle, thanks to the EFI system and adjustable coilover suspension. The inclusion of power steering and four-wheel disc brakes makes this a manageable driver even in urban traffic. With an oil change as recently as August 2025 and a clean Arizona title, the car is presented in turn-key condition. For a buyer looking to bypass the years-long assembly process, this Mk4 offers a professionally finished shortcut to one of the most iconic driving experiences in automotive history.
Final Verdict on a Modern Classic
This Factory Five Racing Mk4 Roadster is a high-quality execution of a timeless design. By pairing a BluePrint stroker motor with a Tremec five-speed and modern electronics, the builder has created a car that honors its heritage while embracing contemporary performance. It remains a standout choice for those who value the mechanical connection of a manual gearbox and the unmatched presence of a metallic blue roadster.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
