AC Cobra & Shelby Cobra – The Definitive Reference Guide

Welcome to the reference website dedicated to the AC Cobra and the Shelby Cobra. Featuring 49 in-depth pages.

Independent technical resource based on real ownership and documented experience.

This site aims to bring together, in one place, the most complete and reliable information on the history, engineering, powertrains, and the various versions of the AC Cobra, from the 289 to the legendary 427.

You will find detailed content covering chassis design, Ford FE engines, transmissions, performance, as well as the differences between original cars, continuation models, and high-quality replicas.

This website is intended for enthusiasts, collectors, prospective buyers, and knowledgeable amateurs who want to understand what makes the Cobra a true legend.

Each page is written with high standards, technical accuracy, and passion, to provide a unique and authoritative source of information.

The goal is simple: to offer the most comprehensive website dedicated to the AC Cobra, with no compromise on historical and mechanical accuracy.

ERA AC Cobra 427 Side Oiler: Overview and Complete Configuration

More specifically, you will find here reliable, technical, and accessible information on the 427 Side Oiler engine, the best replicas, and how to properly buy a Cobra, with buying advice, the history of the AC Cobra 427 and Ford 427 engines, pricing in the US, the different replica manufacturers, a directory of Cobra-related websites, as well as information on maintenance and parts for these exceptional cars.

👉 Learn more about the author

This site exists because I wish I had found clear, precise, and reliable content when I first became interested in these cars. The only content available at the time—very approximate and completely outdated—came from a Cobra club website.

From its stock configuration, through a complete build, and all the way to its rebirth, you will follow the journey taken to achieve the desired result, from September 2024 to March 2026.

Everything you need to know about the AC Cobra 427 and the ERA AC Cobra 427: Ford 427 Side Oiler V8 engine, Top Loader transmission, ERA chassis, 2025 build, photos and technical details—a faithful replica of the 1965 Shelby Cobra muscle car, fully restored.

49 pages dedicated to the AC Cobra 427 SC are available in the “Other” menu at the top right.

Enjoy your reading!

The Prologue

September 2024 — the decision is made. I’m buying an AC Cobra, a 427 SC. After scanning the internet, my choice is clear: it will be an ERA.

Buy in France? In the U.S.? The U.S., without hesitation. An ERA Cobra 427 that qualifies as a collector car—over 30 years old—so everything is fully legal and to avoid the administrative issues faced by most Cobra owners, many of whom drive with fraudulent registration documents labeled as “1965.”

The importer finds me a beautiful 1991 muscle car in Pennsylvania: black, gold stripes, equipped with the highly sought-after 427 Side Oiler and a Top Loader transmission. Jackpot!

After an endless wait (U.S. dockworkers’ strike, a not-so-responsive importer), I finally receive my ERA AC Cobra in mid-May 2025. The very next day, it goes straight to the shop to be completely rebuilt from top to bottom.

ERA AC Cobra 427: Complete Rebuild

After a thorough assessment with the shop manager, I bring in all the parts I’ve sourced online from around the world.

The project gets off to a slow start, and in July 2025 the engine is removed, disassembled, and sent to a specialist for machining and boring.

We will replace the pistons with DIAMOND units, the connecting rods with EAGLE, along with the bearings, sleeves, and more. The entire ignition system will be upgraded to full MSD. A McLeod RST Street Twin Clutch and a new flywheel will also be installed.

The front and rear suspension assemblies are completely rebuilt, the front braking system is upgraded, and all four rear shocks are replaced with premium components.

All fluid systems—cooling, fuel, oil, and related accessories—are renewed from top to bottom. Both radiators are replaced, along with all three pumps, every filter, all plumbing, and associated hardware.

The fuel tank has been completely cleaned. The new engine fire extinguisher and its system have been installed, the dashboard instrumentation has been serviced, and a new 14-inch Moto-Lita steering wheel is paired with a latest-generation power steering system.

The car is currently under restoration, and the bodywork will be fully refurbished. I’m looking at six full pages of estimates…