Florida’s 700hp Shelby Cobra is the ultimate American dream machine
- Backdraft Racing has added another Shelby Cobra replica to the world
- This one looks very like the original roadster and icon, but with a difference
- The fake snake is powered by a truly spectacular engine
Published on May 05, 2025 at 6:45 PM (UTC+4)
by Daisy Edwards
Last updated on May 05, 2025 at 6:45 PM (UTC+4)
Edited by
Daisy Edwards
There’s nothing like Shelby Cobra…or is there? This 700hp Shelby Cobra wasn’t made by AC Cars or Shelby, but actually created by Florida’s Backdraft Racing and it is the ultimate American dream machine.
The iconic Shelby Cobra open top sports car is deeply beloved, so there is no lack of replicas, but this one is particularly special.
The Backdraft Shelby Cobra comes with a very special surprise under the hood, which gives it a kick that, frankly, the original didn’t need, but it sure is nice to have.
It looks every part like the original and iconic roadster, but it is an entirely stronger, faster and more powerful beast on the inside.
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The world needed a 700hp Shelby Cobra
The original Shelby Cobra open-top Roadster is an icon in its own right, so of course there will be countless remakes, replicas and builds based on it.
Florida-based Backdraft Racing has thrown its hat in the ring and created yet another replica of the speediest snake in America, but for a special reason.
There is probably only one thing that’s better than the roadster, and that’s definitely a 700 horsepower version of it.
These hair-raising speeds are created by a brand new addition to the lightweight roadster using a Ford Performance VMS Stage 2 Godzilla 7.3-liter V8 engine.
This American dream machine has all the bells and whistles
While the style of the roadster can’t be mistaken for anything other than the Shelby Cobra with its Monterey blue color and black stripes, it has a lot of the most modern tech under the hood.
The fake snake comes with a high-performance five-speed manual transmission, as well as Wilwood disc brakes and spectacularly huge Forgeline alloy wheels.
This roadster could be better described as a supercar with all of its fabulous extras, but it’s still close enough to the iconic Shelby Cobra that we know and love.
Huge props to Backdraft Racing for bringing back a racing icon!
Daisy is a technology and automotive journalist covering artificial intelligence, consumer tech, Apple news, cryptocurrency, emerging technologies, and transportation innovation. Since joining the team in 2025, she has reported on everything from AI-powered startups and major iOS updates to viral car stories and the latest developments shaping transportation and the digital economy. Drawing on her background in automotive journalism and a degree in History and Journalism from Goldsmiths, University of London, Daisy specializes in breaking down complex topics into clear, engaging reporting for a global audience. Her work spans cutting-edge technology, innovative vehicles, and the people driving change across both industries. Daisy has gained first-hand access to some of the world's most talked-about technologies and innovators, including meeting Tesla's Optimus humanoid robot during its first European appearance in London. She has also discussed the future of space exploration with an astronaut, bringing unique insights and real-world perspectives to her coverage of emerging technology.
