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The Kirkham Motorsports 427/SC represents a meticulously crafted homage to one of the most iconic sports cars ever produced, blending classic aesthetics with modern engineering and extreme performance. Assembled in 2007 by FE Specialties of Sacramento, California, this particular example stands out with its unique brushed aluminum bodywork and a powerful 428ci Ford Cobra Jet V8 engine. It embodies the spirit of raw power and track-focused design, built for enthusiasts who crave an authentic high-performance driving experience, meticulously constructed to deliver on every front.
Craftsmanship and Distinctive Exterior: Kirkham Motorsports, founded in Provo, Utah, is renowned for its high-quality replicas, utilizing an aluminum body and stainless-steel chassis fabricated in Poland. This 427/SC example boasts a fully brushed exterior, showcasing the raw beauty of its aluminum construction. The design incorporates classic features such as a functional hood scoop, a polished driver-side roll hoop for safety and style, and a Le Mans-style fuel filler, all paying tribute to its legendary inspiration. Raydot-style mirrors and wind wings add to the authentic racing aesthetic, while black quick-jack bumperettes and aggressive side-exit exhaust pipes complete the powerful and distinctive exterior.
Powertrain and Unleashed Performance: The heart of this Kirkham Motorsports 427/SC is a blueprinted 428ci Cobra Jet V8 engine, built by FE Specialties, signifying a high level of precision and performance optimization. This formidable engine is equipped with Stage II-ported Edelbrock cylinder heads, designed for enhanced airflow and power. Internally, it features robust SCAT H-beam connecting rods and Ross pistons, built to withstand extreme forces. A Crower camshaft and lifters, along with Smith Brothers pushrods and Erson rocker assemblies, ensure optimal valve timing and lift for maximum output. A Melling high-volume oil pump and an Aviaid T-sump oil pan provide efficient lubrication, crucial for high-performance applications. Fueling is managed by a Holley 850-cfm carburetor atop an Edelbrock Performer RPM intake manifold, complemented by a “turkey pan” air box and Cobra Le Mans-branded valve covers. Ignition is handled by an MSD billet distributor and Blaster 3 ignition coil. The aluminum radiator, cooled by an electric puller fan, maintains optimal engine temperatures. The estimated output from this impressive combination is approximately 600-700 horsepower, though not explicitly stated, it’s consistent with similar powerful Cobra Jet builds.
Drivetrain and Suspension Dynamics: Power from the mighty 428ci Cobra Jet V8 is channeled to the rear wheels through a robust Tremec TKO 600 five-speed manual transmission, offering precise gear changes and a truly engaging driving experience. This transmission is equipped with a Lakewood safety bellhousing, a McLeod flywheel and clutch assembly, and a hydraulic throwout bearing, ensuring reliable and smooth power transfer. The rear end is sourced from a Jaguar, known for its robust and sophisticated independent suspension design, which contributes to excellent handling characteristics. The overall suspension system features an independent setup with adjustable coilovers and billet aluminum control arms and uprights at all four corners, allowing for fine-tuning of the ride and handling for various driving conditions.
Wheels, Tires, and Braking: This Kirkham Motorsports 427/SC rides on classic Halibrand-style 15-inch knock-off wheels, finished in black for a striking contrast against the brushed aluminum body. These wheels are secured with three-eared spinners, retained by safety wire, a nod to authentic racing practice. The vehicle is fitted with yellow-letter Goodyear Eagle tires, specifically sized at 26.5×8.0 inches up front and a wider 26.5×10.5 inches out back, providing ample grip. Stopping power is handled by a comprehensive four-wheel disc brake system, utilizing high-performance Wilwood calipers at all corners. The brake system fluid was flushed in preparation for the sale, ensuring optimal braking performance and responsiveness.
Interior Appointments and Safety: The cabin of this 427/SC is designed with a focus on both functionality and classic racing aesthetics. It features low-back bucket seats trimmed in black upholstery, providing a secure and comfortable perch for spirited driving. A color-coordinated dashboard fascia, door pockets, and carpets create a cohesive and purposeful interior. Safety is paramount, with a fire suppression system installed for critical protection, and Stroud latch-and-link harnesses ensuring occupants are securely restrained. Drilled aluminum pedals add a racing-inspired touch to the footwell. The driver is presented with a wood-rimmed steering wheel, sitting ahead of comprehensive Smiths instrumentation, including a reverse-sweep 180-mph speedometer, an 8k-rpm tachometer, and various auxiliary gauges, all essential for monitoring performance.
Provenance and Documentation: This Kirkham Motorsports 427/SC was acquired by its current owner in 2022 and is now offered on dealer consignment in Arizona. The vehicle holds a Florida title that describes it as a 1965 Cobra, indicating its intended lineage. Interestingly, it is also titled using a Pennsylvania assigned VIN SW132343PA and carries a California BAR sticker issued in 2008, which identifies it as a 2007 SPCN COBRA REPL with the VIN KC6DSLC0478, matching the number on the Kirkham Motorsports identification plate. These various VINs reflect the complexities of titling specialty-built vehicles and their historical registration. While the five-digit odometer shows 93 miles, the total mileage of the vehicle remains unknown, which is common for such custom builds.
Summary:
- Assembled in 2007 by FE Specialties.
- Brushed aluminum body on a stainless-steel frame.
- Blueprinted 428ci Ford Cobra Jet V8 engine.
- Stage II-ported Edelbrock cylinder heads, SCAT rods, Ross pistons.
- Crower camshaft, Holley carburetor, Aviaid oil pan, MSD ignition.
- Tremec TKO 600 five-speed manual transmission.
- Lakewood safety bellhousing, McLeod clutch.
- Jaguar rear end.
- Independent suspension with adjustable coilovers, billet control arms.
- Wilwood four-wheel disc brakes.
- Halibrand-style 15-inch knock-off wheels with Goodyear Eagle tires.
- Black low-back bucket seats with Stroud harnesses.
- Wood-rimmed steering wheel and Smiths gauges.
- Fire suppression system.
- Polished driver-side roll hoop, Le Mans-style fuel filler.
- Quick-jack bumperettes and side-exit exhaust pipes.
- Florida title lists as a 1965 Cobra.
Disclaimer: Information provided is for general understanding and is based on available details of this custom-built vehicle. Performance specifications and historical data are presented as reported, and prospective buyers are advised to conduct their own thorough inspection and verification.
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