1989 Robnell Cobra Roadster

One of the most enduring of automotive legends is the Cobra, created by Texan Carroll Shelby in the early Sixties by combining the US muscle of the Ford small-block V8 with a suitably modified English sports car chassis. The AC Ace had been in production since the early 1950s, initially with a 2-litre four-cylinder engine and later with the Bristol six-cylinder and Ford Zephyr units and was clothed in pretty roadster bodywork - itself said to have been inspired by the early Ferrari racing barchetta - and these formed the basis for Shelby's fire-breathing Cobras. The original 289 Cobra was a winner both on the street and track, taking on - and beating - Europe's best in the mid-Sixties. The original small-block V8 was later substituted by the 427-cid big-block and, with the bodywork suitably pumped-up, the Cobra delivered shattering performance. With original examples commanding huge prices, an entire industry of Cobra replicas has developed over the years and one of the best known and most highly regarded was Robnell Sports Cars of Australia. Created by Rob Darnell, the Robnell was designed around a steel space frame in place of the original crude ladder affair, had fully independent suspension with Koni adjustable shock absorbers and disc brakes all round. The bodywork, a mix of Kevlar and fibreglass, closely follows the lines of the aggressive 427 Cobra and was available with a host of modern features including air conditioning, cruise control leather upholstery and even ABS and traction control while the choice of engine was down to the customer, with most opting for modern fuel-injected Ford V8s. Details like replica Halibrand wheels gave the Robnell a suitably period feel. Combining the performance and style of the original Cobra with modern technology, refinement and creature comforts, the Robnell S/C is a fantastic choice for track days, club events or for someone just wanting to enjoy driving again.