Like most of you - I have been wanting to build a cobra for years. There is just something about the design that keeps it at the top of my list of most alluring cars.
I don’t know if it’s the shape, or the speed, or the sound, or the combination of it all, but it has always been my favorite.
I turned 50 this year and decided it was time to get started.

My background is in control systems, robotics, and magnetic communications. This will be my first automotive project, and I am looking forward to working on the car with my kids.
I was originally intending to install a 427 (based on the 351 Windsor), but after discussing engine options with friends, family and several FFR engineers at SEMA, I was decided to switch to the Coyote. Truthfully, I don’t think there’s an engine configuration that I wouldn’t enjoy. One of the challenges of this build is that there are so many choices that aren’t necessarily right or wrong – but rather just different -- that I could contemplate the design and options for years. With that in mind, here are my high-level build plans and initial add-ons from my order.

High Level Build

MK4 Complete Kit
Independent Rear Suspension
Coyote 5.0 Liter Gen 2 Engine
Tremec 6-Speed Magnum T56 Transmission
17” FFR Halibrand Wheels
Wilwood Brakes (Red)
Hydraulic Clutch

FFR Upgrades:

Powder Coating
Body Cut-Outs
Leather Seats
Power Steering
IRS
GPS Gauge Set
Stainless Bumper
Wind Wings
Sun Visors
Windshield Wipers
Swaybar (Front and Rear)
Brake Duct Mesh
Vinyl Dash with GloveBox
Chrome Roll Bar DS/PS with FFR Grommets
Center Dash Supports
Koni Double Adjustable Shocks
Oil Cooler
Adj Seat Track
IRS Center Section and Spindles
Floor Mats



Additional Upgrades (it feels never-ending):

3/8” Stainless Steel Fuel Lines
3/16” Stainless Steel Brake Lines
AreoMotive Cannister Fuel Filter (5 micron)
AreoMotive Adj Fuel Regulator
Breeze 255 lph In-Tank Fuel Pump
Breeze -6AN Flex Line and Adapters
Breeze Upper/Lower Radiator Mounts
Breeze Radiator Fan Shroud
Breeze Hi-Flow Vent and -6AN Return
Breeze Radiator Cowl Cover
Breeze Engine Bay Battery Box
Russ Thompson Trunk Box Kit
Russ Thompson Turn Signal Indicator
Replica Parts Steering Column Bezel
Replica Parts Harness Bezels
Replica Parts Dash Support Bracket
Nitto NT555 G2 Tires (245/45-17 315/30-17)
Relocate Gas Tank Strap Mount Location
Wilwood Rear Brake Bypass Switch


Possible Upgrades:

Heater
Heated Seats
Electric Parking Brake
TBD…


My wife made some creative modifications to the Factory Five artwork for my 50th B-Day.
I guess there is no going back now
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I didn't want to cut into this cool cake - but it is a cake after all...
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