Rare 427 Cobra

[Gramps46]

Just found this rare and unusual 1/25 scale metal cast 427 Cobra.  It was kitted in the '80s before the Monogram kit was released and was based upon the AMT plastic kit.  The model was created by Bill Landis, Dave Sposaro, and Harry McCaughey and 100 castings were made.  This example is labeled as Prototype #1.

 

[Paul Payne]

Interesting from a hobby history standpoint, but I wouldn't want to build it!

[The Junkman]

The good: looks like a proper representation of the competition 427 with the "wide hips" and blown out front fenders.  "It looks like a racing 427" which the Revell kit doesn't.

The bad: but Holy Cow, that casting is rough.  I pale at the amount of work to bring it up to standard.

Edited March 3, 2021 by The Junkman

[Gramps46]

I have been told the creators of the kit examined and measured CSX 3349 of the Penn brothers of central Pennsylvania.  A well know drag car which they still own.

Here is a picture from eBay of a painted version. 

 

[cobraman]

Thanks to a heads up from Gary I was able to buy 002 !  Have not received mine yet. That kit looks to be as rough as a cobb as my dad used to say. That's ok with me. I will be happy just to have one in my collection. I had never seen or heard of this kit. Thank you Gary. There is little chance I will build mine. You going to tackle yours Gary ?

[Gramps46]

Ray, I don't plan to build mine either as I bought it more as an interesting piece of modeling history especially as it is a Cobra.  My kit is missing the wheel inserts so I hope yours has them.  I also have two other models by Landis and Sposaro, the Mitchell Sting Ray racer and the Corvette Grand Sport roadster.  Both are solid resin castings but were way ahead of their times.

[cobraman]

If I ever tried to build mine ( I won't ) I would most likely use tires and wheels from a kit.  Like you , I feel it is just an interesting piece to have. Been collecting Cobra's since about 1999 and i have never seen or heard of this one. I am happy you told me about it !

[Gramps46]

Just received a built up Cobra #057 and I am impressed with the finished project.  The paint is very well done.  I had to replace the windshield which was broken with an AMT but that is what the kit one was based upon anyway.  I just notice the gas cap is missing but again I will use an AMT one. 

[vamach1]

I made an offer of $33 for an unpainted one (004)  and my offer was accepted.  Like Gramps said it is a piece of modeling history and with some work will make a presentable shelf kit.

Edited March 8, 2021 by vamach1

[cobraman]

I like it but don't the tires look a bit oversize ? Or is it just me ?

[vamach1]

12 minutes ago, cobraman said:

I like it but don't the tires look a bit oversize ? Or is it just me ?

I doubt I will use them.  The wheels are separate and I’ll find something that will work.  The one corner Monogram cut was using the skinny MIcheln TRX tires in the 1/24 kit.  Those tires belong on a 79 Mustang. ?

[Gramps46]

I agree the tires are oversized and if I  was starting a build would replace them with something more suitable. 

[cobraman]

If and when I build mine I will replace the tires and wheels as well.