1998 Kit Cars

⭕ THE SALE

This 1998 Pilgrim Sumo Cobra Replica is currently in a 2-week auction on our website. This is our guide price, i.e. what we think the car is worth in the current market, however, the reserve will be lower. You can read much more about the car, see of hundreds of detailed photos and videos of it, and ask the seller any questions on our website: we can't add links on this platform, so please search for "Trade Classics" on Google.

⭕ VEHICLE SUMMARY

Iconic AC Cobra style, engineered for everyday affordability.

Recognised as one of the most successful and widely produced kit cars in British motoring history, the Cobra remains one of the most popular choices for custom builds. Developed by West Sussex-based Pilgrim Motorsports, production of the Sumo began in 1985, and over 12,000 units have since been built and registered for the road. The Sumo achieved its reputation for affordability and straightforward assembly by incorporating components from everyday, mass-market vehicles. While it sports the look of an expensive American racer on the outside, its suspension bushes, steering rack, and brake pads are often robust, easily sourced Ford parts.

Underneath, the vehicle relies on a heavy-duty, ladder-frame steel spaceframe. Later evolutions incorporated steel floor plates and box-shaped transverse beams, creating a remarkably rigid semi-monocoque design that minimises body flex. The exterior features a lightweight, single-piece Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP/fiberglass) body shell mated to a matching GRP inner tub. The use of running gear from a Ford Sierra, allows it to benefit from the proven simplicity, availability, and reliability of Ford components - as well as allowing the Pilgrim Cobra to accommodate a wide variety of engines.

Completed in 2013 to an exceptionally high standard, this 1998 Pilgrim Sumo is finished in striking Isuzu Damson Purple Mica over a finely crafted beige leather interior, covering just 500 miles since completion. The car is offered with past MOT certificates, a current V5C, and a comprehensive paper trail detailing over £18,000 in receipts, build invoices, and parts documentation.

Having been in storage for a period, the engine would benefit from a routine service. Power comes from a 1.8-litre Ford Sierra engine, offering an accessible entry point that lets the driver comfortably manage the Pilgrim's balanced chassis dynamics without anxiety. While the current setup delivers easy handling, it also presents an exciting opportunity for anyone with a small-block Ford or Chevy engine ready to drop in.

⭕ VEHICLE DETAIL

We've written a longer and more detailed description of this vehicle on our website, which will answer all of your burning questions. To see the car on our site then just search for us, Trade Classics, on Google.

⭕ BEFORE YOU CALL US

We love to talk about cars, but more than 90% of buyers' questions are answered in the full listings on our website: there you'll find a huge amount of detailed information about this car's history, condition, and specification - as well as hundreds of detailed photos and videos. Don't worry: if you still have a question, please just give us a call during office hours.

⭕ ABOUT US

Trade Classics is the most trusted auction house in the UK, with 4.9* on TrustPilot and thousands of happy buyers and sellers. Our mission is to provide the most honest and transparent listings available. By helping you avoid scammers, timewasters, and expensive platform fees, we make the process of buying and selling a car as pleasurable as driving it.