Ultima purchase...

[PotHoleHater]

Hi all,

So, I'm looking towards an Ultima as a fun car to replace the AC Cobra replica I used to own (a Crendon). I still miss that car and especially the V8 rumble of a 7L lump.

I'm not sure if there are any other cars that'll give me such a thrill for under 50k as an Ultima will. The Cobra made my pulse race every time I picked up the keys and walked over to the garage. I need that sort of buzz.

Now, seeing as I know sweet 'F.A' about the brand, I'm looking for some basic advice, please.

First off, what's the difference (apart from visual) between the older 'Sports' model and the newer 'GTR'?

Secondly, are the Can Am cars more or less desirable/better/worse (is the car worse off due to no roof)?

I'm aware each car is pretty much a one off. This makes them more difficult to ascertain a value from my perspective. Is there a rule of thumb that says engine'X' mated to a G50 centre shift is worth more/less, etc?

Any help greatly appreciated.

Cheers,

PotHoleHater :-)

[Steve_D]

PotHoleHater said:

First off, what's the difference (apart from visual) between the older 'Sports' model and the newer 'GTR'?

Very little. A Sport may have a Rover V8 (sounds better than a Chevy INHO) and Renault gearbox. The latest Factory chassis has moved on quite a bit but there was very little change from late sport to GTR.

PotHoleHater said:

Secondly, are the Can Am cars more or less desirable/better/worse (is the car worse off due to no roof)?

Not much between them. Personal choice really. The Factory Can-Am roof seems to work OK and is for the most part watertight. Probably the only performance difference would be aero related. GTR does have more metal around you.

PotHoleHater said:

I'm aware each car is pretty much a one off. This makes them more difficult to ascertain a value from my perspective. Is there a rule of thumb that says engine'X' mated to a G50 centre shift is worth more/less, etc?

These days an LS engine would likely be more desirable. There is not too much difference between the ‘boxes. Some are stronger than others so if you were looking for top power/performance then there are specific choices. Side/centre shift is again personal choice. They both work well. I like the side as it gives the car one more ’special’ element.

Steve

[Ultimike]

The LS engines will give you a more refind driving experience granted, but don't discount sbc engines as long as they have been looked after especially as the sound of a carb sbc will possibly be much more a kin to your cobra. The sound from my 7ltr SBC is epic!

Depending on where you are based I am sure one of us would be more than happy to show you around their cars

Glad you are making the step to a new level of driving excitement and look forward to seeing you at a meet soon.

[PotHoleHater]

Thanks for the replies.

My last car had a Ford FE390 that was bored out to just shy of 7L, so I know what you mean about the sound :-)

I'm based in Devon, so if any of you good folk are down this way I'd not say no to a nosey around your machines...we are off to the Le Mans Classic, too, so if any of you are over there ;-)

Cheers,

PHH.

[Mr Pid]

Hi.... I am based in Plymouth with my GTR. If you would like a look around or a passenger ride feel free to get in touch.

I had a cobra replica many years ago and few other cars..... Ultima is truly something else.

Stu

[PotHoleHater]

Mr Pid said:

Hi.... I am based in Plymouth with my GTR. If you would like a look around or a passenger ride feel free to get in touch.

I had a cobra replica many years ago and few other cars..... Ultima is truly something else.

Stu

Thanks, Stu. Much appreciated. We've yet to get over your way as we explore, but no doubt will do so, soon. I'll PM you.

Cheers,

PHH (Jason)