2022 UNKNOWN

In the early 1970s, Nigel Hulme – founder of Le Mans Coupes – acquired one of the most iconic racing Cobras ever built: ’39PH’. Arguably the most significant of all factory racing Cobras, 39PH took 1st in class and 7th overall at Le Mans in 1963, and famously won the controversial ‘Black Flag’ race during the 1964 British Grand Prix support race at Brands Hatch, driven by the legendary Gentleman Jack Sears – a story every Cobra enthusiast will likely be familiar with.

Nigel kept and raced 39PH for over 30 years, always maintaining it in correct period specification. From Goodwood Revival’s inaugural TT to races in Japan and the very first meeting at Rockingham, 39PH was a familiar sight both on the circuit and the road. For me – Oliver, his son – it was simply the coolest car imaginable, and a birthday tradition saw me collected from school in it each year.

When the opportunity came to become the UK agents for Superformance – a relationship that stemmed directly from Nigel’s long-term custodianship of 39PH – the bittersweet decision was made to part with the car to set up the business. So when Superformance later announced the FIA 289 variant alongside the Slabside, there was no hesitation. We knew we had to build one, and it had to be a faithful tribute to 39PH, finished in its iconic Willment Racing livery.

This is that car – our LMC MKII FIA. It doesn’t just look the part – it truly captures the spirit of the original competition Cobras.

Technical Highlights

• Chassis: Original-style Tojeiro round-tube chassis, fitted with transverse leaf-spring suspension for a genuinely period-correct driving experience.

• Engine: A potent 347ci fuel-injected V8 delivers thrilling torque and acceleration. Open the bonnet and you’re greeted by the theatrical sight of the Borla 8-stack injection system – a modern twist on classic induction.

• Gearbox: Period-correct 4-speed aluminium T-10 Borg-Warner manual, fully rebuilt, providing a direct, mechanical, vintage-feel shift.

• Wheels & Tyres: Classic FIA-style wheels wrapped in grippy Avon CR6ZZ tyres – perfect for both road and track use.

• Interior: Finished in black leather with matching carpets, Willans harnesses, and a wood-rim steering wheel, blending comfort with race-ready authenticity.

• Le Mans Hardtop: The removable Le Mans-style hardtop adds usability across seasons and instantly evokes the drama of a Goodwood TT contender.

Whether you’re a lifelong Cobra aficionado or a driver with a passion for motorsport heritage, this MKII FIA is something truly special. Built not only to honour the past, but to drive like the greats of the era, it’s a car with presence, performance, and provenance.

Contact us today to arrange a test drive and discuss ownership.

Search “Inside the LMC MKII with Le Mans Coupes” on YouTube to see a video of the car.