Classic Recreations produces a carbon fiber Shelby Cobra.
Oklahoma-based Classic Recreations has introduced several stunning carbon fiber-bodied Mustangs in the past, and now it has given the Shelby Cobra the same treatment. [Named the Diamond Edition in honor of Shelby American's 60th anniversary, the model is a beautiful carbon fiber replica of Shelby's CSX Cobra replica design. The bodyshell weighs only 88 pounds and is based on a late 1965 Cobra, so flared fenders and a hood scoop replace the clean look of earlier models.
Its lightweight body is mated to an 800-horsepower version of the Ford 5.0-liter V-8 engine, which achieves its prodigious output with the help of a supercharger. This engine drives the rear wheels via a six-speed manual transmission and breathes through a stainless steel exhaust system with side pipes. No performance figures have been released, but Classic Recreations hints on its website that it has high hopes for the prototype currently in the works.
The Cobra Replica will also feature independent rear suspension, and braking power will be provided by Wildwood brakes with six-piston calipers in the front and four-piston calipers in the rear.
The dashboard will also feature a diamond-studded badge reproducing the signature of the late Carroll Shelby. Since the Cobra's interior has always been minimalist, other comfort features are not expected to be much.
The Diamond Edition will cost $1.2 million each, and only 10 will be built. To put this in perspective, Classic Recreations also sells a replica of the Shelby American-designed CSX Cobra, which starts at $117,900 for the rolling chassis. Also, the Diamond Edition cannot be driven on public roads, Classic Recreations notes.