1,200 Horsepower Supercharged LS3-Powered Custom Cobra
The 1,200 horsepower supercharged LS3-powered Cobra, built by CN Fahrzeugbau, is a stunning combination of classic styling and modern performance. This custom Cobra, which surfaced on social media via Turbo King’s Facebook page, takes the legacy of the Shelby Cobra to a whole new level. With a supercharged engine and sleek design, this car is impossible to ignore.
The Birth of the CN Cobra
CN Fahrzeugbau: A German Masterpiece
CN Fahrzeugbau, based in Dormagen, Germany, has developed a reputation for crafting high-performance vehicles that fuse modern engineering with classic design. This Cobra, hand-built by CN, is a shining example of their expertise. Though little is known about CN as a company, their work on this Cobra speaks for itself(
How the Cobra Gained Popularity
The Cobra first gained attention when it appeared on Turbo King’s Facebook page. The post sparked a flurry of interest from car enthusiasts, but the limited information provided only added to the intrigue. However, the photos of the vehicle were enough to leave a lasting impression on viewers(
A Powerhouse Under the Hood
LS3 Engine: The Power Behind the Performance
The heart of this Cobra is the iconic LS3 engine. Originally produced by General Motors, the LS3 is a 6.2-liter V8 powerhouse that has found its way into various performance vehicles, including the Chevrolet Corvette(
In stock form, the LS3 produces around 430 horsepower. However, CN took things a step further by adding a Whipple 4.2-liter supercharger.
Whipple Supercharger: Pushing the Limits
The Whipple 4.2-liter supercharger dramatically boosts the LS3 engine’s power output, bringing it to a staggering 1,200 horsepower. Known for delivering an instant and reliable boost, the Whipple supercharger is a popular choice for those looking to maximize performance.
This Cobra isn’t just fast—it’s a monster on the road, capable of outpacing many modern supercars.
High Octane Fuel Requirements
Given the immense power of the engine, this Cobra requires premium 93 octane fuel or higher to operate efficiently. The supercharger and LS3 engine together demand high-performance fuel to deliver the best driving experience
Wheels, Tires, and Traction
BBS Wheels: Performance and Style
The CN Cobra is equipped with body-color BBS wheels, which are renowned for their lightweight yet durable construction. These wheels not only add to the car’s aesthetic appeal but also play a critical role in enhancing its performance.
Toyo Proxes Tires: Grip for All That Power
With 335/30/18 Toyo Proxes tires on the rear, this Cobra has the grip necessary to handle the 1,200 horsepower under the hood. These tires are designed for high-performance vehicles, offering excellent traction on both dry and wet surfaces.
Sleek and Functional Design
The Hardtop: A Game Changer
One of the standout features of this Cobra is its hardtop. While most Cobra replicas come with a soft top, CN Fahrzeugbau opted for a hardtop to enhance both the car’s functionality and aesthetics. The hardtop offers a smooth, aerodynamic look, complementing the car’s body lines and improving its overall appeal.
Interior: Matching Colors and Modern Conveniences
The interior of this Cobra is just as meticulously crafted as the exterior. The custom interior features color-matching elements that tie the whole design together. Additionally, modern conveniences like a push-button start and an electronic parking brake add a touch of technology to this classic design.
Driving Experience: Speed Meets Precision
Weight and Acceleration
Weighing in at just around 2,580 pounds, this Cobra is significantly lighter than most modern performance cars.
Combined with its 1,200 horsepower engine, this weight advantage gives the Cobra an astonishing power-to-weight ratio. It’s estimated that the car can go from 0 to 60 mph in under three seconds, making it one of the fastest Cobras on the road(
Handling and Suspension
Despite its incredible speed, the Cobra handles remarkably well, thanks to a carefully tuned suspension system. The car is built to be driven hard, but it’s also a blast to cruise around in. Whether on the highway or the track, this Cobra delivers a driving experience like no other.
The Legacy of the Shelby Cobra
Carroll Shelby’s Iconic Creation
The original Shelby Cobra, designed by Carroll Shelby in the 1960s, is one of the most legendary cars in automotive history. Shelby combined the lightweight AC Ace body with a powerful Ford V8 engine, creating a car that dominated race tracks around the world. Today, the Shelby Cobra is a symbol of American muscle and racing heritage.
LS3 Swap: A Controversial Choice
Purists may frown upon swapping a GM engine into a car with Ford roots, but the LS3 engine’s reliability and power make it a popular choice for modern custom builds. The LS engine family, known for its robust design and versatility, has become a favorite among tuners and custom car builders.
Modern Technology Meets Classic Design
Electronic Features: Push-Button Start and More
While the Cobra maintains its classic look, it’s packed with modern features that enhance the driving experience. The push-button start and electronic parking brake are just a few examples of the modern technology integrated into this build. These features make the car easier to use without compromising its vintage feel.
Braking and Suspension: Built for Performance
To handle the extreme power of the engine, this Cobra is equipped with high-performance brakes and a custom suspension system. The brakes ensure that the car can stop as quickly as it accelerates, while the suspension allows for precise handling at high speeds.
Why This CN Cobra Stands Out
A Unique Blend of Old and New
This custom Cobra is a perfect example of how classic design can be updated with modern performance. By combining the timeless appeal of the Shelby Cobra with the incredible power of a supercharged LS3 engine, CN Fahrzeugbau has created a car that’s both a tribute to the past and a statement about the future of performance vehicles.
Not Just a Showpiece
While many custom builds are designed primarily for car shows, this Cobra is fully functional and built to be driven. Its high-performance components, modern technology, and attention to detail make it more than just a car to admire—it’s a car to experience.
Conclusion
The 1,200 horsepower supercharged LS3-powered Cobra is a masterpiece of modern engineering and classic design. With its powerful engine, sleek hardtop, and carefully crafted details, this car stands out in a sea of custom builds. CN Fahrzeugbau has succeeded in creating a vehicle that not only pays homage to the legendary Shelby Cobra but also pushes the boundaries of what a custom car can achieve.
Whether you’re a fan of classic muscle cars or modern supercars, the CN Cobra offers the best of both worlds. It’s a car that commands attention, demands respect, and delivers an unforgettable driving experience.
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