LMC MKII FIA

If it looks like a Cobra and behaves like a Cobra, it must be a Cobra, right? Not quite...

- MIKE DUFF

TESTED 15.10.22, SUSSEX ON SALE NOW

Don't even think the C-word. The LMC MKII FIA isn't an AC/Shelby Cobra, regardless of what your eyes are telling you. This puts it in fine company, the Cobra being one of the most copied cars in history, with rival rights holders having sued at points over official status. But although this car - sold by Le Mans Coupes of West Sussex - isn't a sanctioned continuation, it offers a very similar driving experience to the original.

The Cobra was born from the marriage of light British bodywork and brutal American power, but it had to evolve throughout its life as it struggled to stay competitive on track, which is why LMC offers cars corresponding with different eras.

You can buy a replica of the early 'slab-side' car, a MKIII to represent the late '427' or indeed the MKII FIA, which fits between these extremes, representing what's often called the $289', with 'FIA' referring to changes made for race homologation.