The 347 Stroker–Powered Factory Five Racing Mk4 Roadster 5-Speed is a modern incarnation of one of the most iconic sports cars in automotive history. Rooted in the legacy of the Shelby Cobra, this kit car offers enthusiasts a chance to build and drive a machine that combines classic design with contemporary performance. Factory Five Racing, known for its high-quality kit cars, provides the platform, while the 347 Stroker engine ensures exhilarating performance.
### Factory Five Racing and the Mk4 Roadster
Factory Five Racing (FFR) is a well-respected name in the kit car industry. Founded in 1995, the company has revolutionized the market by offering high-quality, affordable kits that allow car enthusiasts to build their own high-performance sports cars. The Mk4 Roadster is one of FFR's most popular models, designed to capture the spirit and style of the 1960s Shelby Cobra.
The Mk4 Roadster is an evolution of FFR's original Roadster kit, refined over the years through customer feedback and technological advancements. The result is a car that not only looks the part but also delivers exceptional performance and drivability.
### The 347 Stroker Engine
At the heart of this particular Mk4 Roadster is the 347 Stroker engine. The 347 Stroker is a popular choice among builders for its impressive power output and reliability. Based on the Ford 302 engine, the 347 Stroker increases the engine's displacement by lengthening the stroke of the crankshaft and using larger pistons. This modification results in a significant boost in horsepower and torque.
Typically, a well-built 347 Stroker can produce between 400 and 500 horsepower, depending on the components used and the level of tuning. This power level is more than enough to propel the lightweight Mk4 Roadster with thrilling acceleration and top-end speed.
### Performance and Driving Experience
The combination of the 347 Stroker engine and the Mk4 Roadster's lightweight chassis makes for an exhilarating driving experience. Weighing in at around 2,200 pounds, the Roadster has an impressive power-to-weight ratio, which translates to rapid acceleration and nimble handling.
The five-speed manual transmission adds to the engaging driving experience, allowing drivers to fully exploit the engine's power band. Shifts are precise and rewarding, making every drive an enjoyable experience, whether on a spirited backroad run or a track day event.
The suspension setup of the Mk4 Roadster is designed to offer a balance between comfort and performance. With adjustable coilovers and a well-engineered independent rear suspension, the car provides excellent handling characteristics while still being capable of a relatively comfortable ride.
### Design and Aesthetics
The Mk4 Roadster faithfully recreates the iconic look of the Shelby Cobra, with its distinctive curves, aggressive stance, and timeless design. Factory Five offers a variety of customization options, allowing builders to tailor the car to their personal tastes. This includes choices in paint colors, interior finishes, and wheel designs.
The body of the Mk4 Roadster is made from high-quality fiberglass, ensuring durability and a smooth finish. The fit and finish of the panels are designed to be as close to perfect as possible, with tight gaps and a polished appearance that belies the fact that it's a kit car.
### Building the Mk4 Roadster
One of the unique aspects of owning a Factory Five Mk4 Roadster is the experience of building the car yourself. The kit comes with a comprehensive instruction manual and all the necessary components to complete the build, except for the engine, transmission, and a few other parts that can be sourced separately.
The build process is both challenging and rewarding, requiring a good mix of mechanical knowledge, patience, and attention to detail. Factory Five Racing has a robust support network, including online forums, customer service, and a community of fellow builders who share advice and experiences.
Completing the build not only results in a car that is tailored to your specifications but also provides a deep sense of accomplishment and a personal connection to the vehicle that is hard to match with a factory-built car.
### Legacy and Community
The Factory Five Racing Mk4 Roadster, powered by the 347 Stroker engine, is part of a larger legacy that dates back to the original Shelby Cobra. Carroll Shelby's vision of a lightweight, high-performance sports car has inspired countless enthusiasts and builders over the decades. The Mk4 Roadster continues this tradition by offering modern performance and safety features while maintaining the classic aesthetic.
Owners of the Mk4 Roadster are part of a passionate and active community. Factory Five organizes events and gatherings where builders can showcase their cars, share stories, and enjoy the camaraderie of like-minded enthusiasts. This community aspect adds another layer of enjoyment to owning a Factory Five car.
### Conclusion
The 347 Stroker–Powered Factory Five Racing Mk4 Roadster 5-Speed is a car that offers a unique blend of classic style, modern performance, and hands-on building experience. It is a testament to the enduring appeal of the Shelby Cobra and the creativity and dedication of the automotive enthusiast community.
Building and driving a Mk4 Roadster is more than just owning a car; it's about being part of a legacy and a community. The thrill of driving a car you've built yourself, combined with the exhilarating performance of the 347 Stroker engine, makes the Mk4 Roadster an unforgettable experience. Factory Five Racing has succeeded in creating a kit car that not only pays homage to a classic but also stands on its own as a modern performance machine.
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