FAQ

Questions we hear often.

The car, the kits, engines, pricing and visiting the factory. If your question isn't here, call us at (256) 546-3708.

About Unique

How long has Unique Motorcars been in business?

Unique Motorcars was founded in Phoenix, Arizona, in 1977 and began building Cobra replicas late that year. We moved to Gadsden, Alabama, in 1981. Read our story.

How do your cars differ from the competition?

Compare us only with truly comparable makes. Look at the hand-laid fiberglass body, the fully independent suspension, the quality of the accessories, the fit and finish, and our reputation. We build for quality, not quantity, and use the highest-quality components available, and our cars hold some of the highest resale values in the industry.

Can you provide references?

Yes, feel free to contact us. Most of our customers are happy to talk with prospective buyers and show them their cars. Browse Unique owners groups online or view our features in magazines! Be wary of any manufacturer that won't give you references.

How about resale?

Resale values have always been some of the highest in the industry. Our customers often sell their cars for a profit, including several repeat customers. Used Unique replicas can be hard to find, because most owners hold on to them. Be on the lookout!

Are you affiliated with Ford?

No. Cobra is a trademark of Ford Motor Company, and Unique Motorcars' products have no connection with Ford.

The car

What suspension do you use, and how strong is it?

The rear is a Jaguar independent rear suspension, a Salisbury unit with Dana 44 gears. It's very strong, handles well and rides smoothly. The front is our own design, with tubular A-arms, Carrera adjustable coil-over springs and shocks, Wilwood disc brakes, Mustang spindles, an anti-sway bar and original-style rack-and-pinion steering.

Is your frame round or square tube?

Rectangular. The main rails are 2 × 4 inch tube with a 0.120 inch wall, and the outer body-support rails are 2 × 2 inch with bracing. Extra framing runs under the body across the front of the cowl. Rectangular tube is stronger than round, and there's virtually no chassis flex.

What accessories and hardware do you use?

Only the correct, original type of hardware and accessories, even when they cost more. Leather interior comes standard in our kits, where other makers often charge extra for it.

Can a tall person fit?

Yes. Our foot boxes are longer than the original's, the floor is dropped, and a cut-out dash is available for more knee room. Smaller steering wheels, a raised column and different seat positions are also available. Customers 6'4" fit comfortably, and so do two customers who are 7' tall.

How much does the car weigh?

With a big-block engine, 2,450 to 2,600 lb. With a small-block, 2,200 to 2,450 lb.

How does the car ride?

With our independent suspension and the right spring and shock rates, it rides much smoother than any live-axle car and smoother than many independent-suspension cars. Customers often tell us it rides as well as, or better than, their daily driver.

Kits, turn-keys & engines

Do you offer kits in different stages of completion?

Yes, from basic kits up to deluxe pallet kits. The Deluxe Pallet Kit is the most popular: an assembled kit without the engine, transmission, wheels, tires, paint and a few minor accessories. In every kit the welding is done and no fiberglass work is needed. The doors, hood and trunk are hinged and fitted, and the body is fitted to the chassis, so you can assemble the car yourself.

How long does it take to finish a Deluxe Pallet Kit?

About 100 hours or less. There's no welding, fiberglass or fabrication, just ordinary mechanic's hand tools and a 3/8" electric drill. You take the body off for prep and paint, install the engine, transmission, battery and wiring loom, then put the pre-fitted parts back on. Assembly and wiring manuals are included.

What engines and transmissions can I use?

The 427 takes any small- or big-block Ford engine, and the 289 takes most small-block engines. Transmission choices are a C4 or C6 automatic, a toploader 4-speed or a Tremec 5-speed. Call us to talk through engine and transmission packages.

Can you supply the engine and transmission?

Yes. We can recommend engine builders, or install an engine you supply.

Do you build turn-key cars?

Yes. We offer completed cars, and our demonstration cars at shows let you see the workmanship for yourself.

Pricing, warranty & visits

How much does a Unique cost?

For either the 289 or 427 body: a minimum-order kit starts at $15,995, the pallet kit at $43,295, the deluxe pallet kit at $50,550 and a turn-key car at $67,500, not including the engine and transmission. For the '36 Cabriolet, call for pricing & availability at (256) 546-3708. All deposits are non-refundable. Compare the packages.

What's the warranty?

We warranty the parts we manufacture for 12 months. Other parts carry their own manufacturers' warranties.

Can I visit the factory?

Yes, and we'd like you to. Call first to make an appointment for any weekday from 8 am to 4 pm. Plan a visit.

Still have a question?

Call (256) 546-3708 or send it to us, and a member of the Unique family will answer it directly.