The Factory Five Racing Mk4 Roadster is widely regarded as the most faithful and well-engineered recreation of the legendary 1960s British-American hybrid. This specific example, completed by the seller in 2017, elevates the platform with a professional-grade mechanical build and bespoke interior finishes. Powered by a Dart-based 363ci V-8, the car balances traditional muscle with modern electronic fuel injection and a sophisticated independent suspension system. Now showing only 1,300 miles since completion, this Roadster serves as a masterclass in custom assembly, offering the visceral thrill of a classic icon with the reliability of contemporary hardware.
Galaxy Gray and Stainless Side-Pipe Presence
The fiberglass bodywork of this Roadster is finished in House of Kolor Galaxy Gray, accented by Black Pearl over-the-top stripes and Graphic Red pinstriping. Every exterior detail has been thoughtfully considered, from the shortened and slanted roll hoop to the dual Talbot Berlin side mirrors and LeMans-style fuel filler cap. Stainless-steel side-exit exhaust pipes provide a period-correct visual and auditory signature, while wind wings and a hood scoop emphasize its high-speed intent. It rides on 17-inch Halibrand-style wheels with faux three-eared knock-off spinners, mounted with Nitto NT555 G2 tires that provide the grip necessary to manage its massive displacement.
Bespoke Tamo Ash and Alcantara Craftsmanship
Inside the cockpit, the car moves beyond typical kit-car standards with a custom interior trimmed in black leather and Alcantara with red stitching. The low-back bucket seats are heated for extended seasonal use, secured by red Schroth multi-point harnesses. A standout feature is the custom-dyed Tamo Ash wood veneer that spans the dashboard and center console, accented by billet aluminum trim and a matching wood-rimmed steering wheel. Modern conveniences are seamlessly integrated, including a Clarion marine head unit with Focal speakers and a powered subwoofer. Speedhut instrumentation maintains the classic look with a reverse-sweep speedometer and an 8,000-rpm tachometer.
Supercharged Displacement via Dart 363 CI V-8
The heart of this build is a Dart SHP 302-based iron block V-8, over-bored to 363ci and fitted with a forged rotating assembly. This high-performance engine produces significant power through AFR Renegade aluminum heads and Edelbrock Pro-Flo 4 electronic fuel injection, ensuring crisp throttle response in all conditions. Power is sent to the rear wheels via a Tremec T-600 five-speed manual transmission equipped with a hydraulically actuated McLeod twin-disc clutch and a Ford 8.8-inch differential. The chassis is equally advanced, featuring Koni double-adjustable coilovers at all four corners and Wilwood disc brakes augmented by a hydroboost system for world-class stopping power.
Technical Specifications
| Technical Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Engine | 363 CI Dart-Based V-8 |
| Fuel System | Edelbrock Pro-Flo 4 EFI |
| Transmission | Tremec T-600 5-Speed Manual |
| Clutch | McLeod Twin-Disc Hydraulic |
| Suspension | Koni Double-Adjustable Coilovers |
| Brakes | Wilwood 4-Wheel Disc (Hydroboost) |
| Exterior Color | Galaxy Gray (House of Kolor) |
| Odometer | 1,300 Miles |
A High-Caliber Alternative to the Mainstream
In the niche market for performance recreations, the Factory Five Racing Mk4 Roadster remains a unique selling point due to its immense aftermarket support and chassis rigidity. This build stands out by utilizing top-tier components like a Dart block and Tamo Ash wood, moving it into the territory of high-end customs rather than simple home-built projects. Compared to more basic roadster builds, the inclusion of a full independent suspension and a modern EFI system makes this a more versatile and capable machine on modern roads. As an Illinois-titled vehicle described as a 1965 Roadster, it offers the classic registration benefits with the benefits of modern craftsmanship.
Final Verdict on a Professional Grade Build
The Factory Five Racing Mk4 Roadster is a vehicle that captures the soul of 1965 while embracing the technology of today. This 363ci example is an exceptionally clean and low-mileage build that prioritizes both mechanical durability and aesthetic refinement. From the custom leather-wrapped console to the roar of the stainless side pipes, every element of this Roadster has been engineered to provide an unforgettable driving experience. It remains a premier choice for the enthusiast who demands both the performance of a modern race car and the timeless silhouette of a racing legend.
Disclaimer: Content on this site is for informational and entertainment purposes only. Details, analyses, and opinions reflect current trends and personal views, not professional or financial advice. Always verify information with official sources before making any decisions.
Source: bringatrailer.com
