500hp Fuel-Injected Roush 427 Superformance MKIII Cobra Tremec 5-Speed

The Shelby Cobra remains one of the most iconic performance cars ever built…a purpose-driven fusion of American muscle and British chassis engineering that defined 1960s motorsport. Decades later, few cars come close to matching the visual impact and visceral thrill of a properly built Cobra, especially one like this 1965 Superformance MKIII.

Constructed in 2018 and showing just 1,781 miles since completion, this Superformance Cobra MKIII offers the perfect balance of vintage character and modern capability. It's built by Superformance, a name that's earned international recognition for producing licensed continuation cars and high-quality replicas of the legendary Cobra. Superformance designs and manufactures its cars in-house, using advanced construction techniques, authentic styling, and well-proven performance components.

This example captures the essence of the original MKIII, starting with a hand-laid fiberglass body that faithfully replicates the curves and proportions of a 1965 427 S/C Cobra. The body sits over a rigid, jig-welded ladder frame made from rectangular steel tubing, a structure that delivers impressive torsional rigidity and serves as the backbone for serious performance hardware. Finished in Indigo Blue with painted white stripes, the car boasts all the classic MKIII visual cues: wide, flared fenders, a functional hood scoop, a driver's roll bar, and aggressive side-exit exhaust pipes that visually and audibly define the Cobra driving experience. Period-style 15” knock-off wheels complete the look with the right amount of vintage flair.

Beneath the hood lies the real heart of the beast: a Roush-built 427 cubic inch V8. Based on a Dart block and topped with aluminum Roush cylinder heads, the engine is equipped with electronic fuel injection for seamless throttle response and modern reliability. Output is estimated at 500 horsepower, more than enough to make the lightweight Cobra a thrilling machine on street or track. The engine's ferocity is matched with a Tremec 5-speed manual transmission, feeding power to an 8.8” rear end with 3.55 gears and a limited-slip differential. This drivetrain setup offers the ideal balance of brutal acceleration and high-speed usability.

Underneath, the Cobra is equipped with fully independent suspension at all four corners, paired with coilover shocks and front and rear anti-sway bars. Braking is handled by Wilwood discs on all four wheels, giving the car the stopping power to match its acceleration. While the original 1960s Cobras were often a handful to drive at speed, Superformance's engineering refinements mean this car delivers sharp, predictable handling and a more refined overall driving experience…all while keeping the analog charm intact.

Inside, the cabin stays true to the Shelby philosophy of function-first design. Black bucket seats sit atop fresh black carpet, while a wood-rimmed 3-spoke steering wheel and a full suite of Smiths gauges line the dash. The layout is familiar to any Cobra aficionado, right down to the traditional toggle switches and minimalist controls. One subtle update is a push-to-start ignition system, offering a hint of modern appeal without disrupting the cockpit's vintage aesthetic.

Superformance Cobras are known for their consistency, build quality, and attention to detail…traits that have made them the go-to choice for enthusiasts seeking a true Cobra experience without compromising drivability or reliability. With under 1,800 miles on the odometer, this example presents as fresh and well-preserved, offering turn-key access to one of the most engaging automotive experiences ever created. It delivers the power, presence, and pedigree that made the original famous...with none of the headaches that come with owning a priceless museum piece.

Key Highlights

* Superformance built Shelby Cobra replica
* 1,781 miles
* Roush 427 cubic inch V8 (500hp)
* Electronic fuel-injection
* Tremec 5-speed manual transmission
* 8.8" rear axle with 3.55 gears
* Limited-slip differential
* Rack-and-pinion steering
* Power Wilwood 4-wheel disc brakes
* Fully independent suspension with coil-over-shocks
* Superformance jig-welded chassis
* Superformance fiberglass body
* Indigo Blue with white painted stripes
* 15-inch Knock-Off Wheels
* Avon radial tires
* Polished stainless steel side-pipe exhaust
* Fitted tonneau cover