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As an American who spends most of his time in England, I feel that this video captures a kind of Britishness to motoring journalism that's otherwise difficult for me to articulate to others. It was special from the first frame. Brilliant work, James!
I agree, as a Brit and one time driver of tuned Healeys, MGs et al, and leaky hard tops (even on immaculately prepared cars - a tonneau is often better)✌️👍💜😊
A big displacement LS is one of the most underrated sounds in all of motoring... I think it's 'cause they're so common people don't list them in their favourite sounding engines. But God damn you can make an LS sound mean as all hell. The exhaust systems on the very late model VF Commodores had it absolutely nailed, they actually make me swoon above 4000rpm 🥴😍
@@C.Fecteau-AU-MJ13 I own a resto modded Land Rover defender 110 with a JE Engineering JLR 4.8LV8. It will sound awesome when I get it back after its latests upgrades...but.. an American V8 LS3 will sound so much different.. in a good way! No right or wrong here! 🙂 they are both epic!!
@@cowanscott9047 Oh man those Jag V8s do make a dirty, dirty noise... Another great engine. A mate here in Australia had an XFR when they were new and that thing was epic. That car could do it all, way better than an M5, on the road anyway. The 110 restomod sounds wicked man, bet it's one hell of a mean thing to hear tearing it up out there in the mud.
I own pretty much the exact same as this car featured but in dark blue. I also specced the throttle body package by AT Power. What you don’t really hear well in the video are the induction noises this set up gives. It is delicious, angry and very, very addictive. I love it!
The rain footage was wonderful. I once got caught in the rain in a Caterham with septuagenarian passenger. I couldn't figure out why the windscreen wipers were not clearing the water until I realised the offending rain was on the "inside" of the screen. We laughed about it later. As Henry Catchpole would say after he dailyed a Seven for a year, buy a good sailing jacket.
@@dyentpotatoe potato…literally everyone calls it a Cobra, be it an AC or a Shelby. The first thing a person thinks when a car like this goes by is: “oh look a Cobra”.. No one says: “Oh look an AC”. Cobra sounds much cooler too.
@@augustortiz Because they're different cars. The Cobra uses the body from the Ace. Like, you wouldn't say ""There are few shapes as iconic as a RUF CTR" - you'd say the original car, the Porsche 911.
The LS is always a great option for builds like these... They're plentiful, powerful, affordable, reliable, and quite compact for their displacement. Surprisingly economical too. You can slot an LS into pretty much anything and get a good result. People say it's predictable going LS, but it's a predictable choice for a host of good reasons.
Its neither. We never had an LS v8 cars here of any description as any available good. Closest it ever was is Vauxhall/Holden Monaro/Pontiac GTO sold very briefly in UK. Aside of imported us cars it sight unseen. Ford Mustang V8 since its sold here finally is more common. Aside of that older V8 bmws, audi and mercedes cars, for uk Rover V8s and Aston marton cars. Rest is rare exotics like ferraris and maseratis.
Thank you Jay. I’ve enjoyed your videos for years and this one really resonates with me. The rain provided some entertainment and an aspect of ownership. I own a very similar dark blue factory build with deep dish knock on/off 18 inch Halibrands and side pipes which I took delivery of earlier this year. Feel you need a dry day, sidepipes and no roof for the complete experience. Owned a fair selection of nice cars, Porsche, Aston, Lotus etc - this one has a fun factor which trumps all the rest by a country mile. GD’s are quietly renowned for their quality of build against the competition especially the factory cars. I can’t go anywhere without fellow enthusiasts sharing their passion which I always am happy to reciprocate. One comment I would disagree with - car has huge performance - a Golf R would not see which way this car went down a dry road (I owned a Mk7). My modified 600bhp F Type R that I once owned wouldn’t either. You just need more time in one to learn and trust the handling. It has few driver aids so you do need to respect it a bit more granted but ultimately it is GT3 ground coveringly fast and quicker in a straight line. Andy and Meena are lovely, they don’t advertise massively as the cars sell themselves. In the future when we are all electrified and the memories of this experience has faded you are more than welcome to come for another blast in a proper car, on a dry day with no roof!
I’ve owned a MK3 GD427 since 2007. Ford 302 engine with 367bhp, Jag running gear and T5 gearbox. Black and chrome, under slung pipes so classic 60’s looks. Driven it with my wife to Monaco where it got more attention in Casino Square than all the regular supercars! I’d never part with it. Thanks GD.
That panel strength demo at 17:23 (showing the foam filled panels cross section and actually standing on the panel without denting or breaking!) shows just how incredibly impressive these wonderful cars are. Plus it also shows just how much love is put into the building/assembling of these works of art. I now desperately want one, in fact NEED one!
One of my good primary school friends dads loved his rare, expensive sporting vehicles. Shortly before we lost touch his father bought a factory five cobra replica, and a few years later I was detailing cars and found his father had bought a gt40 replica as well. Never had the chance to get a ride in either but every time I saw those cars I just took a moment to marvel at them knowing it was unlikely I’d ever get to be that close to such vehicles. Great coverage as ever Jay!
What a fabulous video James, I almost felt like I was driving the car with you. Brilliant work as usual, thank you for the pleasure your channel brings.
These Cobra copies/replicas are fairly common in the USA. “Real” Cobras 1. Have a CSX serial number 2. Use an aluminum body. New ones are known as “recreations”. The replicas are still fun vehicles! The 427 is cool but as an adult I appreciate the 289 versions more than the big block version. Seeing a bare aluminum 289 Cobra is a beautiful sight!
Bizarrely the Americans only buy or build Cobra 427 roadsters. UK builders make 289 FIA GT Cobras with a roof (faster, and because rain) and rear exhausts instead of the dumb side exhausts that either burn you or poison you in traffic.
@@truantray AC is the brand that made the car but filled for bankruptcy, cobra was the model and shelby install there the ford V8 engine this is not a shelby also not a ac but a DG
Even with aluminium body (kirkham) and even with csx number (factory five, or ERA or some of them - fiberglass bodied replica - has CSX) it can be a replica though. It doesn't mean by any ways that a replica would be a worst car than an original was, but it worth way less for sure.
I'd argue that a lot of modern replicas are better than the original Shelby Cobra. They might lack the prestige but they're stiffer, lighter, have better suspension/tyres, better engines and a better transmission
@@ahemgee9542 Yeah but they're a nearly 40 year old design based on an 80s chassis so not exactly modern. The original cobra was also a ladder frame more or less which gives all sorts of peculiar characteristics compared to the more modern space frame chassis designs
@@ahemgee9542 Having owned my AK for over 20 years, i would strongly despute your "terrible" claims, unless of course you are used to Rolls Royces or hi end Mercs, also they are not "modified Jaguar ladder frome chassis", they are bespoke ladder and partial backbone frames designed to take whichever running gear you spec!, if you are going to slate something at least get your facts right!
always loved these. Somewhat surprises me that none of the replica manufacturers has taken the chance to produce something that is truly in the restomod category of modernised classic as like you it doesn't bother me that it is not a true AC car. Can't wait to see the lola inspired T70 review mind...now that is something far more unique on our british roads and sets GD aside as a proper car manufacturer in its own right rather than just a "kit car" firm. Love your reviews, please keep up the great work
true AC car ,what model are you refering to ,the AC cobra wasn´t really a shelby or a cobra ,the brand as history in racing ,mr.shelby himself drove one AC in early 60´s with two other team mates but not a wining car allthough it looked like the so called cobra with a top and back but diferent kind of a 2+2 E-type but aplied to the AC Cobra and more slim ,so when shelby bought from his employer in England the AC body to later install a V8 engine (ford one)who isn´t a proper car driven wise ,or anyone here drove a shelby cobra to it´s fullest power and in turns, like the shelby cobra this is a gardner douglas being both not a AC ,also never bother me being not a AC like the shelby or the douglas garner aren´t AC´s also i do enjoy the car but i even like more the early 60´s AC racing car for the Le Mans race
I’ve got a Westfield SE Race Spec with no windscreen and a cage a few weeks ago and went out the afternoon I had it delivered for a quick blast around. 10 minutes after leaving the house, heavens open and there was not a single spot of clothing left dry, but the smile on my face was huge, people driving by must have thought I’m bonkers, but like this car on the video, it’s all about the experience! Not much else out there can beat the thrill of a bespoke car!
I must admit to enjoying watching Jay getting wet and making those noises @ the same time. There was absolutely nothing wrong (technically or otherwise) with this vid. Great way to convey the true nature of this drive.
I have that engine in my 4-door sedan (also making over 500hp) and it feels so powerful. Can't imagine what it would feel like in something half the weight like this car.
Fabulous; utterly glorious exhaust note! I fell in love with the Chevy V8 driving a Camaro SS up the Pacific Coast a few yeras back. Monstrous amounts of torque from low revs. Not surprised it pulls hard from 1600rpm in 4th.
I really like videos recorded with professional quality in an amateurish style, they give less of an artificial feeling, and in the case of vlogs it's better
I built a couple of Westfields here in Western Australia, but went to a lot of kit car shows back in the Uk . I always admired the top notch quality of the Gardner Douglas ! Great video Jay .
My neighbour has a real Cobra in the garage downstairs. Uncertain of which mark. You will hear it within a mile when he starts it. In central London. He also has quite a few special vintage cars down there. I'm lucky to be able to perve on them.
Loved this video. I am a little biased as I am a prospective builder of the mk4 427. It was great to hear an impartial opinion on the quality of the car. Now keener than ever to get on with a build. Can’t wait for the T70 Lola video. Especially if the roads are dry
Awesome car. What a visceral experience I had a good look around these and chatted to the people at GD at the Goodwood Revival... I really would like one!
I have a DAX top on my Backdraft and with the top on it is definitely more windy and louder inside the cockpit. Put the windows on and it's a whole different car. Almost comfortable.... Edit: After watching the rest, the windows do help with wind/noise and most of the water but not all. The water getting on your foot is because all cobra windshields mount on two posts directly through the body. It's a direct route for water dripping onto your foot.
We looked at building a Fake Snake replica, visiting DAX and their Trajero and saw a few other companies at a Kit Car show. Some kits looked very close and some were not but then price did reflect this. In the end we didn't pursue the idea as finding a space to build it near to where we live wasn't attainable.
What a fantastic video and fantastic car, if i was a wealthy man i would choose this over the typical high end italian sports car so prevalent by the rich. Respect to the owner, will always nod my head towards someone trying something different.
As a North American I am biased. I think Factory Five is the best Cobra offering. They are very improved over the original but can still be built on a budget. These cars are beautiful and they would be a blast for open top motoring on a nice day. Like a motorcycle. Given they are a toy, you want great value.
Now THAT is a car with a difference, an experience you won't get from ordinary Porsches, BMWs, etc. I've loved the Cobra reproductions for as long as I've known about them (call it 35-40 years) and it's good that they are getting better. As for the weather, what kind of Man are you if you can't laugh in the face of a Force 9 gale and driving rain...? (Answer - one who's still alive and moving).
Thank you for enduring that car in the rain. It might suit some people however I think I would rather get a Jaguar XKR coupe that you reviewed the other week.
Love the video! We dont actually enjoy seeing you in discomfort - Honest 🤣! We do understand that owners will be able to choose the right weather to go out in.
This video reminded me of an old video found on "The Drive" youtube channel, with Chris Harris driving an Morgan from Wales to Geneva. That video also included driving in heavy rain and the use of an newspaper as drip-protection inside the car. 😄
Currently on the beach in Agia Marina, on Aegina in Greece. I'm having the same trouble hearing, as you are with the wind noise. I'm pushing through though and very entertained. Glad you are too....defo worth it 😊
I don’t know if it’s true but I read that England has the highest per capita ownership of convertibles in the world. Those rare sunny days must be treasured.
" i think its brightening up actually" ha hahahahahhahaha as the water absolutely pours in and black skies can be seen all around! I do appreciate his sense of humour i really do!
Hello James. Thanks for another cracking review. Hope you are well. Suggestion. Do you think you can get hold of an MG ZT or TT 260 to drive? Less than a thousand were built before the company fell over and got bought up by SIAC(?). I wonder just how rare they are, how good or bad they are. I found it interesting that the rear discs were a tad bigger than the front discs, how unusual is that? Thanks again.
Congratulations Great Chanel,Great Reviews, Brilliant Content👍👍 See if you can get you’re hands on a Spyker Electric car and a original F1 or even a T50. I heard all 100 T50s sold out in 15 minutes!!!! Due to insurance,you might have to test them with the owner present. Sure they would make a great episode and boost your members interest. Keep up the great work 👍👍👍👍👍
There's probably as many different Cobra replicas as there are Lotus/Caterham 7s. Must be something special about these cars for there to be so many of them. ✌🏻🇺🇸
Great content wet leg is a common problem with GD's you can spot us at car and coffee morning , especially in Scotland 🤣. You should of tried one with no hardtop its a much nicer experience.
@JayEmmOnCars recommend packing an umbrella (on GD branded wet suit) if in doubt about the weather next time 😂 …and despite that, I’d still buy one in a heartbeat if I could 👌🏼🤤
Yes, the original AC design can use improvement. For some unknown reason, it is still a roadster without truly functioning side windows. Not only will it keep your assets dry, but they are also a necessity with air conditioning. It is folly to keep your feet cold but your upper torso is wind-blown and burning as the outside temperature rises toward 40C. While 40C may be extraordinary in England and on the continent, here in the States it has become more common week in and week out. I do applaud the functional hardtop as a necessary piece of kit. So if you were able to combine the hardtop with fully functioning roll-up side windows, you would have a car worthy of driving from New York to San Francisco mid-summer. A journey of 3,000 miles.
It ain't ment to been a comfortable cruise, it's a true classic sportscar. It's like an motorcycle on 4 wheels. Americans actually used to love this type of very basic and nimble sportscar.....
Is this a true Cobra Evo?? Me thinks yes. The double wishbone suspension will tame, upgrade, and stablize the Cobra automotive concept. Herein starts the argument ! If I had the money and the space, I'd chose an Ace. I love 'em both. Thanks JM. Best wishes from the Forest of Blackness, Mike.
I owned one some years ago, a Mk3 Jag based version that I built. Cracking cars but useless in our country. I put a soft top on it but it totally spoilt it. Great company though and money no object I'd have a factory built Mk4 in a heartbeat.
Does anyone remember the name of the Cobra and Jaguar D Type replica builder that was based in Witham Essex in the early 90s? It was in Moss Road? I used to work opposite it and be treated daily to the sound of their beautiful cars being `tested` (as in thrashed down the very nearby A12!) They were very high quality replicas as i remember that they were going for £100,000 in 1992ish!
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As an American who spends most of his time in England, I feel that this video captures a kind of Britishness to motoring journalism that's otherwise difficult for me to articulate to others. It was special from the first frame. Brilliant work, James!
I agree, as a Brit and one time driver of tuned Healeys, MGs et al, and leaky hard tops (even on immaculately prepared cars - a tonneau is often better)✌️👍💜😊
No need to apologise for the sound quality... it was glorious listening to that thumping V8!!
A big displacement LS is one of the most underrated sounds in all of motoring... I think it's 'cause they're so common people don't list them in their favourite sounding engines. But God damn you can make an LS sound mean as all hell. The exhaust systems on the very late model VF Commodores had it absolutely nailed, they actually make me swoon above 4000rpm 🥴😍
@@C.Fecteau-AU-MJ13 I own a resto modded Land Rover defender 110 with a JE Engineering JLR 4.8LV8. It will sound awesome when I get it back after its latests upgrades...but.. an American V8 LS3 will sound so much different.. in a good way! No right or wrong here! 🙂 they are both epic!!
@@cowanscott9047 Oh man those Jag V8s do make a dirty, dirty noise... Another great engine.
A mate here in Australia had an XFR when they were new and that thing was epic. That car could do it all, way better than an M5, on the road anyway.
The 110 restomod sounds wicked man, bet it's one hell of a mean thing to hear tearing it up out there in the mud.
I own pretty much the exact same as this car featured but in dark blue. I also specced the throttle body package by AT Power. What you don’t really hear well in the video are the induction noises this set up gives. It is delicious, angry and very, very addictive. I love it!
I just pulled the trigger on one.. can’t wait to get it!!
The rain footage was wonderful. I once got caught in the rain in a Caterham with septuagenarian passenger. I couldn't figure out why the windscreen wipers were not clearing the water until I realised the offending rain was on the "inside" of the screen. We laughed about it later. As Henry Catchpole would say after he dailyed a Seven for a year, buy a good sailing jacket.
another good example, the caterham 7 isn´t a Lotus caterham but it´s licensed to be a car, the caterham
I used one for a year too, back in the early 90’s. Drove roof down, in snow, filling the boot! Gleeful fun, but yearned for heat!
@kurtbarker3303 I salute you good sir.
Had a similar experience driving my Elise back down the M1 without the roof after I bought it
There are few shapes as iconic as the Cobra's in the automotive world. Truly timeless.
You mean the AC Ace, which the Cobra was based on
@@dyentpotatoe potato…literally everyone calls it a Cobra, be it an AC or a Shelby. The first thing a person thinks when a car like this goes by is: “oh look a Cobra”.. No one says: “Oh look an AC”. Cobra sounds much cooler too.
@@augustortiz Because they're different cars. The Cobra uses the body from the Ace.
Like, you wouldn't say ""There are few shapes as iconic as a RUF CTR" - you'd say the original car, the Porsche 911.
Yep the few shapes being cobra, e type, mini and mgb gt
I always find it amazing that so many older British derived cars had so little weather protection :-)
Right?! It would seem like it would/should have been completely opposite!
The LS is always a great option for builds like these... They're plentiful, powerful, affordable, reliable, and quite compact for their displacement. Surprisingly economical too.
You can slot an LS into pretty much anything and get a good result. People say it's predictable going LS, but it's a predictable choice for a host of good reasons.
I'd say *extremely* compact for their displacement. An LS ranging from 5.7 to 7 liters is pretty much the same physical size as a Nissan 3.5 VQ35 :)
They're not common here in the UK - I don't think they ever officially made it here in any car. Only very recently the LT in the C8 corvette.
Its neither. We never had an LS v8 cars here of any description as any available good. Closest it ever was is Vauxhall/Holden Monaro/Pontiac GTO sold very briefly in UK. Aside of imported us cars it sight unseen.
Ford Mustang V8 since its sold here finally is more common. Aside of that older V8 bmws, audi and mercedes cars, for uk Rover V8s and Aston marton cars. Rest is rare exotics like ferraris and maseratis.
@@KartsAgainstHumanityyou can buy them directly, you don't need them to be in a car.
Unless it's a FORD engine, it's a replica....this is just a kit car !!
Thank you Jay. I’ve enjoyed your videos for years and this one really resonates with me. The rain provided some entertainment and an aspect of ownership. I own a very similar dark blue factory build with deep dish knock on/off 18 inch Halibrands and side pipes which I took delivery of earlier this year. Feel you need a dry day, sidepipes and no roof for the complete experience. Owned a fair selection of nice cars, Porsche, Aston, Lotus etc - this one has a fun factor which trumps all the rest by a country mile. GD’s are quietly renowned for their quality of build against the competition especially the factory cars. I can’t go anywhere without fellow enthusiasts sharing their passion which I always am happy to reciprocate. One comment I would disagree with - car has huge performance - a Golf R would not see which way this car went down a dry road (I owned a Mk7). My modified 600bhp F Type R that I once owned wouldn’t either. You just need more time in one to learn and trust the handling. It has few driver aids so you do need to respect it a bit more granted but ultimately it is GT3 ground coveringly fast and quicker in a straight line. Andy and Meena are lovely, they don’t advertise massively as the cars sell themselves. In the future when we are all electrified and the memories of this experience has faded you are more than welcome to come for another blast in a proper car, on a dry day with no roof!
I’ve owned a MK3 GD427 since 2007. Ford 302 engine with 367bhp, Jag running gear and T5 gearbox. Black and chrome, under slung pipes so classic 60’s looks. Driven it with my wife to Monaco where it got more attention in Casino Square than all the regular supercars! I’d never part with it. Thanks GD.
That panel strength demo at 17:23 (showing the foam filled panels cross section and actually standing on the panel without denting or breaking!) shows just how incredibly impressive these wonderful cars are. Plus it also shows just how much love is put into the building/assembling of these works of art. I now desperately want one, in fact NEED one!
One of my good primary school friends dads loved his rare, expensive sporting vehicles. Shortly before we lost touch his father bought a factory five cobra replica, and a few years later I was detailing cars and found his father had bought a gt40 replica as well. Never had the chance to get a ride in either but every time I saw those cars I just took a moment to marvel at them knowing it was unlikely I’d ever get to be that close to such vehicles. Great coverage as ever Jay!
What a fabulous video James, I almost felt like I was driving the car with you. Brilliant work as usual, thank you for the pleasure your channel brings.
Two car styles that have stood the test time & are iconic, the Cobra & the E-type. Replica or not it's just sublime
Finally something really proper. More high end kit cars like this please :)
Brilliant review. As an ex-TVR owner, the GD is now top of my Xmas list
These Cobra copies/replicas are fairly common in the USA. “Real” Cobras 1. Have a CSX serial number 2. Use an aluminum body.
New ones are known as “recreations”. The replicas are still fun vehicles!
The 427 is cool but as an adult I appreciate the 289 versions more than the big block version. Seeing a bare aluminum 289 Cobra is a beautiful sight!
I love the look of the 289
Bizarrely the Americans only buy or build Cobra 427 roadsters. UK builders make 289 FIA GT Cobras with a roof (faster, and because rain) and rear exhausts instead of the dumb side exhausts that either burn you or poison you in traffic.
Totally with you there 👍
@@truantray AC is the brand that made the car but filled for bankruptcy, cobra was the model and shelby install there the ford V8 engine this is not a shelby also not a ac but a DG
Even with aluminium body (kirkham) and even with csx number (factory five, or ERA or some of them - fiberglass bodied replica - has CSX) it can be a replica though. It doesn't mean by any ways that a replica would be a worst car than an original was, but it worth way less for sure.
The sound of that engine is just so awe inspiring.
I truly love that you reviewed a Cobra 🐍, even if they want to be something else and be known as a GD. A cobra is my personal dream car
I'd argue that a lot of modern replicas are better than the original Shelby Cobra. They might lack the prestige but they're stiffer, lighter, have better suspension/tyres, better engines and a better transmission
have you ever been in one? Ive been in a AK and a DAX, using old modified jaguar ladder frame chassis, they're absolutely terrible.
@@ahemgee9542 Yeah but they're a nearly 40 year old design based on an 80s chassis so not exactly modern. The original cobra was also a ladder frame more or less which gives all sorts of peculiar characteristics compared to the more modern space frame chassis designs
@@ahemgee9542 Having owned my AK for over 20 years, i would strongly despute your "terrible" claims, unless of course you are used to Rolls Royces or hi end Mercs, also they are not "modified Jaguar ladder frome chassis", they are bespoke ladder and partial backbone frames designed to take whichever running gear you spec!, if you are going to slate something at least get your facts right!
always loved these. Somewhat surprises me that none of the replica manufacturers has taken the chance to produce something that is truly in the restomod category of modernised classic as like you it doesn't bother me that it is not a true AC car. Can't wait to see the lola inspired T70 review mind...now that is something far more unique on our british roads and sets GD aside as a proper car manufacturer in its own right rather than just a "kit car" firm. Love your reviews, please keep up the great work
true AC car ,what model are you refering to ,the AC cobra wasn´t really a shelby or a cobra ,the brand as history in racing ,mr.shelby himself drove one AC in early 60´s with two other team mates but not a wining car allthough it looked like the so called cobra with a top and back but diferent kind of a 2+2 E-type but aplied to the AC Cobra and more slim ,so when shelby bought from his employer in England the AC body to later install a V8 engine (ford one)who isn´t a proper car driven wise ,or anyone here drove a shelby cobra to it´s fullest power and in turns, like the shelby cobra this is a gardner douglas being both not a AC ,also never bother me being not a AC like the shelby or the douglas garner aren´t AC´s also i do enjoy the car but i even like more the early 60´s AC racing car for the Le Mans race
This car is heavy, loud, crude and has no driver aids…and I LOVE it!
Gorgeous car and probably a lot better on the road than a real Cobra, while retaining the looks and charisma.
Very nice!
9:37 I'm absolutely laughing from here onwards
I’ve got a Westfield SE Race Spec with no windscreen and a cage a few weeks ago and went out the afternoon I had it delivered for a quick blast around.
10 minutes after leaving the house, heavens open and there was not a single spot of clothing left dry, but the smile on my face was huge, people driving by must have thought I’m bonkers, but like this car on the video, it’s all about the experience!
Not much else out there can beat the thrill of a bespoke car!
I must admit to enjoying watching Jay getting wet and making those noises @ the same time. There was absolutely nothing wrong (technically or otherwise) with this vid.
Great way to convey the true nature of this drive.
I have that engine in my 4-door sedan (also making over 500hp) and it feels so powerful. Can't imagine what it would feel like in something half the weight like this car.
I can assure you (I own pretty much the identical car with 490bhp throttle bodies, less cam and on E5 petrol) pretty bloomin fast - lol
The sound and rain only added to the mystique and fun of owning a car like this. Non-car guys need not apply. Great job!
thank you for going mainstream with these cars jay.. very relatable and helpful
Fabulous; utterly glorious exhaust note! I fell in love with the Chevy V8 driving a Camaro SS up the Pacific Coast a few yeras back. Monstrous amounts of torque from low revs. Not surprised it pulls hard from 1600rpm in 4th.
I really like videos recorded with professional quality in an amateurish style, they give less of an artificial feeling, and in the case of vlogs it's better
Great video James and THANK YOU for sticking through it!
The 4 wheeled version of an cafe racer. Max input to all the senses when driving.
As it should be. Its a shame that this is lost art and not even consideration in modern mass produced cars, sportscar or not.
I built a couple of Westfields here in Western Australia, but went to a lot of kit car shows back in the Uk . I always admired the top notch quality of the Gardner Douglas ! Great video Jay .
A family friend built a replica 427 with tremec 5 top loader. Gave it to me for a weekend as a Christmas gift! Life experience.
Built an AK a few years ago- I will never forget that car or the noise!
My neighbour has a real Cobra in the garage downstairs. Uncertain of which mark. You will hear it within a mile when he starts it. In central London. He also has quite a few special vintage cars down there. I'm lucky to be able to perve on them.
Loved this video. I am a little biased as I am a prospective builder of the mk4 427. It was great to hear an impartial opinion on the quality of the car. Now keener than ever to get on with a build. Can’t wait for the T70 Lola video. Especially if the roads are dry
Well done James, not even the weather could dampen your enthusiasm...
This isn't a "I apologise for the noise" situation. This is a crank it up to eleven and drink it in situation.
Awesome car. What a visceral experience I had a good look around these and chatted to the people at GD at the Goodwood Revival... I really would like one!
Again. Another fantastic video from you. Really enjoyed it and glad you have the balls to drive that in the wet. I salute you sir!!
AS Chapman said about his initial drive in the rain in the VII; ( as it was then) 'it's a bit choppy around the ankles'
I have a DAX top on my Backdraft and with the top on it is definitely more windy and louder inside the cockpit. Put the windows on and it's a whole different car. Almost comfortable....
Edit: After watching the rest, the windows do help with wind/noise and most of the water but not all. The water getting on your foot is because all cobra windshields mount on two posts directly through the body. It's a direct route for water dripping onto your foot.
Great video James. You clearly enjoyed that even though the weather was testing! Cracking motor.
Great video James! I love the "weather spoils James' video" comedic content! Excellent humor as always and beautiful car! Keep doing what you do! 😎
We looked at building a Fake Snake replica, visiting DAX and their Trajero and saw a few other companies at a Kit Car show. Some kits looked very close and some were not but then price did reflect this. In the end we didn't pursue the idea as finding a space to build it near to where we live wasn't attainable.
That rumble is just addictive
Fantastic car, REAL engine and very little weight, must be an absolute HOOT! to drive, and that SOUND glorious. Thanks!
I love your videos dude, you're right Cobras are too rare who cares if its a replica the important thing . To drive one for fun, life is too short.
Thanks J & all @ GD/owner. Great looking & sounding car. T70 spider/moda is fantastic, so looking forward to that video! 🙏🙏
What a fantastic video and fantastic car, if i was a wealthy man i would choose this over the typical high end italian sports car so prevalent by the rich. Respect to the owner, will always nod my head towards someone trying something different.
As a North American I am biased. I think Factory Five is the best Cobra offering. They are very improved over the original but can still be built on a budget. These cars are beautiful and they would be a blast for open top motoring on a nice day. Like a motorcycle. Given they are a toy, you want great value.
Now THAT is a car with a difference, an experience you won't get from ordinary Porsches, BMWs, etc. I've loved the Cobra reproductions for as long as I've known about them (call it 35-40 years) and it's good that they are getting better. As for the weather, what kind of Man are you if you can't laugh in the face of a Force 9 gale and driving rain...? (Answer - one who's still alive and moving).
Great fun! But if you want to get wet when driving in the rain, you can do it in a 1980s Triumph Spitfire for a mere fraction of the price!
Congratulations James, on hitting the 300,000 followers great video as always looking forward to more content…
Thanks very much!
Thank you for enduring that car in the rain. It might suit some people however I think I would rather get a Jaguar XKR coupe that you reviewed the other week.
That shirt was literally the lining to my Grandads waxed jacket. Crazy.
Love the video! We dont actually enjoy seeing you in discomfort - Honest 🤣! We do understand that owners will be able to choose the right weather to go out in.
Very much enjoying the rain shenanigans. Something about a Replica cobra, no driver aids, and some rain anxiety
This video reminded me of an old video found on "The Drive" youtube channel, with Chris Harris driving an Morgan from Wales to Geneva. That video also included driving in heavy rain and the use of an newspaper as drip-protection inside the car. 😄
Currently on the beach in Agia Marina, on Aegina in Greece. I'm having the same trouble hearing, as you are with the wind noise. I'm pushing through though and very entertained. Glad you are too....defo worth it 😊
Be a brave bear & try to enjoy yourself! Happy Holiday!
I don’t know if it’s true but I read that England has the highest per capita ownership of convertibles in the world. Those rare sunny days must be treasured.
When you have less of something you appreciate it more.
Looking forward to the T70 review.
Your suit was absolutely fantastic! Nice car too, but more looking forward to the T70.
Loving your discomfort at your classic English weather!🤣 Keep it up James!!!!!!💪😁👍🤣
Another good one from James! Ending was a bit abrupt though :D
I did what I could!
" i think its brightening up actually" ha hahahahahhahaha as the water absolutely pours in and black skies can be seen all around! I do appreciate his sense of humour i really do!
The very essence of being British
Exactly!@@JayEmmOnCars
The AC. The ultimate toy. 😊👍
Hello James. Thanks for another cracking review. Hope you are well.
Suggestion. Do you think you can get hold of an MG ZT or TT 260 to drive? Less than a thousand were built before the company fell over and got bought up by SIAC(?). I wonder just how rare they are, how good or bad they are. I found it interesting that the rear discs were a tad bigger than the front discs, how unusual is that?
Thanks again.
Great video!!!
GD T70 next?
It is possible to tighten that turning circle a little by judicious use of the right pedal. Possibly best not to do in someone else's car though!
Congratulations Great Chanel,Great Reviews, Brilliant Content👍👍
See if you can get you’re hands on a Spyker Electric car and a original F1 or even a T50. I heard all 100 T50s sold out in 15 minutes!!!! Due to insurance,you might have to test them with the owner present.
Sure they would make a great episode and boost your members interest.
Keep up the great work 👍👍👍👍👍
However..I love the "slab side" 289 with the "add on" afterthought arches...just looks the business..
What a nice way to spend £100k on a proper weekend toy.👍
Shouting to be heard, at many spots you sounded just like the late, great Murray Walker.
What an absolute weapon
I’ve always preferred the 289 myself, but very few companies seem to make recreations of them. I think hawk do but don’t know of any others.
There's probably as many different Cobra replicas as there are Lotus/Caterham 7s. Must be something special about these cars for there to be so many of them. ✌🏻🇺🇸
Great content wet leg is a common problem with GD's you can spot us at car and coffee morning , especially in Scotland 🤣. You should of tried one with no hardtop its a much nicer experience.
Yes im enjoying it, great laugh thanks! Dream car to boot.
We love you.
@JayEmmOnCars recommend packing an umbrella (on GD branded wet suit) if in doubt about the weather next time 😂 …and despite that, I’d still buy one in a heartbeat if I could 👌🏼🤤
Yes, the original AC design can use improvement. For some unknown reason, it is still a roadster without truly functioning side windows. Not only will it keep your assets dry, but they are also a necessity with air conditioning. It is folly to keep your feet cold but your upper torso is wind-blown and burning as the outside temperature rises toward 40C. While 40C may be extraordinary in England and on the continent, here in the States it has become more common week in and week out. I do applaud the functional hardtop as a necessary piece of kit. So if you were able to combine the hardtop with fully functioning roll-up side windows, you would have a car worthy of driving from New York to San Francisco mid-summer. A journey of 3,000 miles.
It ain't ment to been a comfortable cruise, it's a true classic sportscar. It's like an motorcycle on 4 wheels. Americans actually used to love this type of very basic and nimble sportscar.....
Great video and it’s a real car that did great in the rain.
Daily driver? Actually, it was fun to see you enjoying yourself, then not!
Great, but would love to see you do the gt70 moda.
Is this a true Cobra Evo?? Me thinks yes. The double wishbone suspension will tame, upgrade, and stablize the Cobra automotive concept. Herein starts the argument ! If I had the money and the space, I'd chose an Ace. I love 'em both. Thanks JM. Best wishes from the Forest of Blackness, Mike.
By god that sound eeeeevil.
Of course we all enjoyed this video. Your discomfort, made it all the more funny.
Next time can you do an Ariel Atom in a thunder storm. Please. 👍
This was fun to watch
Heard there are also companys that make cobra replicas with a jag i6 and V12. Would love to see a review of one of these.
Yes saw a vid where this guy had a 550 hp jag v12 in California, it sounded amazing!😊
Wonderful car, it's unique in spite of its Cobra history.
Really the optimum setup is a double a armed fronts, and the multi-link rear. The RX8 is an exemplary example of that for a FR drive combination.
The things you have to do James to entertain us !
Awesome car. I'd prefer the older 289 slab side AC- style as I'm no boy racer....
As a kid I loved the 427 but now the purity of the 289 has my love. Maybe because there are so many 427 copies out there.
ew
glorious. and a good vid as usual
More importantly, love the jacket
I owned one some years ago, a Mk3 Jag based version that I built.
Cracking cars but useless in our country.
I put a soft top on it but it totally spoilt it.
Great company though and money no object I'd have a factory built Mk4 in a heartbeat.
the rain section was quite funny lmao
Does anyone remember the name of the Cobra and Jaguar D Type replica builder that was based in Witham Essex in the early 90s? It was in Moss Road? I used to work opposite it and be treated daily to the sound of their beautiful cars being `tested` (as in thrashed down the very nearby A12!) They were very high quality replicas as i remember that they were going for £100,000 in 1992ish!