[Arrowhead]

I started a thread in the bodywork forum, but this probably a better place.

Factory Five is bringing out a '33 coupe kit car. There are some things that really intriguge me about it, but I'm cautious at the same time. From the information I've seen, they are going to build a coupe with a removable hard top.

It apears as though they have taken quite a bit of liberty in straying from the original design of the '33 though. The engine bay will fit a 4.6 DOHC with enclosed hood sides (which really excites me). And they have incorporated a pushrod style front suspension ala indy car. The removable top has issues as the windshield stays with the top vs the body. That will require a seperate windshield to be installed to go topless (or what ever solution they come up with).

I really like the pre engineered sports car idea and fitting a 4.6 inside the hood. But given the issues brought up with the whole street beasts deviating from the original Henry design, I'm a little wary.

(In reality I am getting my house in order to start another project, so this could be a viable alternative)

[dalesy]

That's a pretty slick looking ride! But, like you said, it's got problems. I wouldn't care for the windshield-hooked-to-the-top deal. Too many steps involved making it into a roadster. How many people drive without the windshield anyway?

I've seen several other body/kits that have a larger passenger compartment, or "stretching" in several other areas to make them more civilized. I don't guess it's a big deal, unless they change the overall look of the car.

[Henry Highrise]

It looks good and I really like the idea. But dosen't a roadster have to have a windshield to meet DOT requirements in most states? If it were made where the windshield stayed with the car body when you take the top off , it would be better in my opinion.

[Henry Highrise]

I like the front suspension.

[jaguarxk120]

Hey it gives you the option of installing a fold down windsheild. Or a set of racing screens can be installed. Opens the door to many options. Tom

[41willys]

That is definitely very slick looking. I like it.

Jason

[NEW INTERIORS]

Very nice!!!!!

[staleg]

How about making a simple Duval or salt flats styled windshield that were hanged on the centre pillar? Then the windshield could have been in the car, hidden behind the seats or something, when the hard top was used.
Or maybe just a couple of small vintage Bugatti style windshields? Hidden in the glove box when not in use!

[Deuce]

Whatever floats your boat ...
Why too modern for my taste ... but then I like more traditional styled cars. From the photos ... looks to be well thought out and most likely a real good handling car for a mountainous, curvy road.

How much is the kit?

.

[Arrowhead]

The rumor is the basic kit is around $15K. Not sure what that includes yet. The official release isn't till tomorrow and hopefully they will post all the specs / pricing.

I hear you about the styling. I'm kind of torn myself, I like the idea of a supercar handling, but not sure it would be welcomed in Louisville.

I think they are planning on side windows, but I don't see how you would make them work with the top as shown.

[327NUT]

The "basic" kit will cost $19,900 and gives you everything but the engine, trans, tires/wheels etc. I'm with Deuce on this hot rod, I like 'em fairly stock looking but if it's engineered and built anything like their Cobra replica it will be a very nice car. I actually got to see (and ride) in the Cobra, or MK III as they call it, had a 418 stroker (351W). Beautiful car.........and VERY fast!!

[Deuce]

Originally Posted by 327NUT

I'm with Deuce on this hot rod, I like 'em fairly stock looking but if it's engineered and built anything like their Cobra replica it will be a very nice car !!

I do not have to want one ... to appreciate the engineering and workmanship. The HotRod world is diverse enough and crafty enough to have a lot of rides I can appreciate. At my stage of life ( AARP member ) ... I am not as into canyon carving and scarring myself to death as I once was. I ride a Harley ... my neighbor has a crotch rocket. He wants to go fast ... I just want to LOOK GOOD when I am riding. Same for the rods ... the wife and I just want to look good.

[Arrowhead]

Yea, the $20K price tag set me back in my chair. And that's without the top. Thats another almost $2K.

I guess you can't look at it as a hot rod replica though. It's more like a sports car dressed to look like a vintage car. If you can accept that, then it kind of grows on you.

I sure has a kick'in frame setup though: