It might look like a Torino, but the Cobra actually shares its body code with the Fairlane, and Ford marketed the Cobras, which came as 2 door hardtops and 2 door sports tops, as simply "Cobras". Only 3,910 Cobras were built in 1969 with the R code 428CJ making a desirable, somewhat rare and potent muscle car.
For consignment, a 1969 Ford Cobra 2 door hardtop with a title verified 51,636 actual miles. Our consignor informs us this car was drag raced extensively in the late 70's into the early 80's, resprayed in the late 70's, and for the past 10 years, has been mostly idle. This is especially evident by the tires that will need immediate replacement. This car was originally ordered by the Philadelphia District Office back in the day, so is one that was delivered not far from where we sit in Morgantown, Pennsylvania.
Exterior That repaint was done in the original Royal Maroon, a rather pedestrian color for such a beast, but it wears it well and the black vinyl roof is a nice contrast. Quad headlights flank a black grille exhibiting a few rock chips, and a chrome bumper sits below it all in very good condition. Hood pins and a scoop further help differentiate this from mere mortal Torino/Fairlane. Our consignor states the car wears its original panels and the gaps are good. While the door handles and side mirrors could use some restoration, the Cobra snake emblem on each front quarter panel are worth the price of admission. The rear fascia is quintessential 60's but has two distinctions. The somewhat subtle "Cobra Jet 428" emblem is tucked in the right corner and massive straight tailpipes exit under the bumper like two cannons ready to fire. The profile is deceivingly straight, like your average passenger car that most people would not give a second look and aside from some of the subtle cues, there is nothing outlandish about its exterior. The 14-inch Styled Steel wheels hint at some sportiness. Imperfections include random scratches, chips, extra paint, bubbles, and the vinyl roof shows some separation on its seams and where it meets metal trim on the decklid.
Interior More straight lines dominate the black vinyl door panels, and we note some waviness, especially on the driver's door. The front split bench is black vinyl with black cloth inserts and shows some wear but is in otherwise good condition. The rear bench is in very good shape and the requisite ashtrays are located on the front seat backs, while external speakers are on the bench. A basic steering wheel shares its column with an AutoMeter tachometer and Stewart Warner oil pressure gauge while a line of four round gauges make up the dash. If that's not enough information, and it wouldn't be for a race car, there's another pair of gauges under the dash. Adding to the fun is an AM/FM/Cassette radio embedded into the dash which likely has to be on "11" to be heard over what we anticipate to be loud exhaust. A wood handled shifter is floor mounted, surrounded by black loop carpet in good condition. Though a bit dirty, the pedals are trimmed in metal, a small attention to detail that stands out. The black stitched headliner is in good condition and houses the shoulder belts. The trunk is bare and contains a spare tire.
Drivetrain Pop the pins and open the hood and inside we find a very clean non original 428ci Cobra Jet V8 rated at 335 horsepower and topped with a new Holley 4-barrel carburetor. The Toploader 4-speed close ratio manual transmission sends power back to a Ford 9" rear with 3.50 gear and Equalock. Drum brakes are the option on this car.
Undercarriage Driver quality underneath with typical surface rust on untreated metal parts. The dual exhaust flows from the engine to a pair of stock style mufflers, up and around the rear axle, and out the back and appears to be in good shape. On our travels, we note a drop of oil on the transmission and some dampness by the rear yoke seal. Typical aged undercarriage but no invasive rust is noted. A driveshaft safety loop is in place for good measure and suspension consists of coil springs in the front and leaf springs with traction bars in the back.
Drive-Ability As predicted, it does rumble on startup, but we note a high idle on startup taking much longer than normal to kick down. The valve train is also adding some unwelcome noise to the soundtrack as well. As we gently take the car for a lap, we note a weak horn, turn signals not working, blower motor inoperable, and the fuel gauge not reading. Beyond that, there's obvious power on tap and the period correct cabin is comfortable and upright.
When was the last time you saw one of these at a car show or cruise night? They are rare and somewhat legendary and among the 3,910 built there exists some standard equipment but also some variation in the options available. Here's a straight example that probably needs some tuning but is no poser with the snake on the side, it's a real deal R code 428CJ born in Lorain, Ohio and delivered to eastern Pennsylvania. It's still here, but where will it end up? That's up to you!
9H45R124714
9-1969 H-Lorain, OH Assy Plant 45-Cobra 2 Door Formal Hardtop R-428ci 4bbl Cobra Jet, Ram Air 124714-Sequential Unit Number
WARRANTY PLATE
BODY 65A-Cobra 2 Door Hardtop, Bench Seat COLOR B-Royal Maroon TRIM 1A-Black Vinyl & Cloth DATE 08K-November 8th DSO 16-Philadelphia AXLE S-Ford 9" 3.50 Equalock TRANS 6-Close Ratio 4 Speed Manual
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