The performance capabilities of this 1983 Shelby Cobra Replica are obvious when factoring in its unusually light curb weight and eager power. This specimen, representing the early, formative days of its specialized niche, has been equipped with some seldom found but welcome add-ons to make for a very pleasant driving experience in real world situations. If you're searching for a standout ride that's a lot of fun to drive yet also offers a highly functioning, dependable configuration, this is definitely... one to check out. Just by virtue of the nostalgia inducing yet exotic visual experience it offers, a Cobra replica gets quite a head start as far as aesthetics are concerned. Given the performance-centric heritage of its inspiration, you'll likely experience an almost involuntary response and imagine just how its low-slung form, broad track and outstanding power to weight ratio combine for a fun-filled driving experience. Draped in a distinctive shade of red that's just a touch darker than what's normally seen on the road and accented by broad tan stripes passing over the scooped hood and rear deck lid that tie in perfectly with the interior, this early stage representative is still in full possession of its magnetic curb appeal. The chrome exterior fittings on display here - from the compact bumpers and light casings in both front and back, to the very clean-looking side pipes - are still in great shape and a tan canvas convertible top stands by for protection while motoring in more challenging weather. The featured crème white interior represents a departure from the norm among Shelby replicas and is nicely crafted. Replicas aren't generally known for the inspired styling of their cockpits, so this one is a welcome surprise, with rally-inspired buckets equipped with racing seat belts and matching door panels that really stand out against the darker carpet lining the floor. Farther forward, the distinctively colored dash area pairs with the parchment-colored faces of a set of Classic Instruments gauges to make for an unbeatable view beyond the beefy woodgrain steering wheel. In between the buckets, the center console is in clean condition and houses a seamlessly installed automatic shifter. An AM/FM/CD stereo has also been added to combine with a multi-disc changer and a pair of speakers mounted in the kick panels, and in dash vents are onboard to bring air conditioning inside the cabin. While both features will need a bit of attention to get back online, once they're returned to form they'll make this '83 a far more versatile ride than most of its counterparts. Mechanically speaking, the theme of this Cobra Replica is all about dependable power. We've seen some pretty extravagant motors in this niche and in many cases, their power comes at the expense of real world dependability. Such is not the case here. Beneath the hood is a 302 cubic inch V8 - a member of a class of engines that have propelled countless Fords, as well as other aftermarket projects, over the years - and it's in top form, fed by a 4-barrel carb and teaming with a smooth shifting 3-speed automatic transmission to make for a drivetrain that won't leave you dreading stop and go conditions any more than you already do. Front disc brakes help bring fade resistant stops as this iconic street machine heats up the asphalt on its set of 15" wire wheels with spinner centers that are wrapped with BF Goodrich T/A radials. Nicely equipped and offering plenty of driving excitement at an attainable price, this 1983 Shelby Cobra Replica would be a great score for the enthusiast looking for magnetic curb appeal paired with dependable power. Call today!