Credit: 129photos.com
Jack’s Factory Five story began several years ago on a fall run with some local Cobra enthusiasts in East Tennessee. Even though he didn’t have his Cobra yet, they embraced him and his ’97 Viper GTS as one of the crew. That set the plan in motion for Jack to become a Factory Five owner, and he purchased #11 “a 25th Anniversary Factory Five kit.”
A very hands-on builder Jack put passion into every little detail in his Mk4 Roadster, from the bodywork he did in his garage to customizing the wheels with brushed outers and red calipers. The car is truly personalized. He drew inspiration from videos by Frank-aka IE427-and tips from Jeff Kleiner on painting and bodywork that helped him get the job done.
The project took a few years, but had its moments of family bonding along the way. Jack’s pug, Dash quickly became a loyal helper.
One of his most memorable experiences was at the London Cobra Show where he and his wife, Valerie gained inspiration for their build. After meeting Factory Five’s Dave Smith, Jack was able to secure a special set of 25th Anniversary wheels, making the build even more personal.
Though he had built one car before —a 1995 Everrett-Morrison kit— his Factory Five was different. “I’m so happy with the quality of Factory Five’s build! My previous Cobra’s cockpit was all chopper-gun fiberglass, heavy, spongey, and built like a boat. I love how thought out and engineered the Factory Five is. I enjoyed the build process and the community support between helpful videos, various threads on the Factory Five Forum and groups. Also, I think I have saved every one of Jeff Kleiner’s posts of his finished painted Cobras for color ideas.”
Finally, after a few years of hard work, Jack took his Cobra on its maiden drive down Tail of the Dragon. It might not be finished, but he could not be happier. “It’s my favorite car by far,” he beams. His Viper will probably rack up fewer miles now, but there’s little doubting the open road’s pull is greater than ever.
Driving #11, is a dream come true for Jack and we can’t wait to hear more about his Factory Five Mk4 Roadster adventures.
If you’re feeling inspired to build your own Factory Five, now’s the perfect time! Check out the sale we have going on and start your dream build today! www.factoryfive.com/whats-new/save-2024-off-on-all-kits-all-options-no-limits