Unique Autocraft Cars were built in very small numbers in Harlow in Essex between 1981 and 1993, in total only around 99 were made. The only model made was a replica of the AC Cobra, the chassis was made of steel with a 92 inch wheelbase onto which an open two seater body was mounted, the model was known as The Python. The suspension came from Jaguar and they were built with a variety of V6 or V8 engines depending on customer preference.
The purpose of this site is to act as an archive regarding anything to do with Unique Autocraft Python Cobras. Information is already scarce, the hope is that by having a central resource, the owners of the remaining cars from the build run of 99, will be able to support each other and share both experience and information that they have.
Any information found on this website, whether it be text, video or images, has been discovered and collated together in one place from other websites around the internet. We will reference authors and locations when known.
In this section you will find links to PDF documents and drawings along with photos to help owners understand how their car was put together if they didn't build it themselves or as a refresher if they did and may not be able to put their hand on the documents. If you have any additional documentation that you would like to share with this community, please reach out. Thank you.
23 Oct 2018.
This superb example was correctly registered in 16/10/1986.
This Cobra has just had a extensive mechanical and cosmetic restoration.
Finished in unmarked Tahiti blue coachwork
Detailed with clear indicators, P700 Headlamps, Chrome front bumper, Cobra badges,
Stainless steel wipers, Wind defectors, Aluminium polished stone guards, Drivers single
hoop three leg roll bar, Centre mounted chrome flip top fuel filler, Rear chrome overriders,
Stunning grey leather interior with blue piping, Blue carpets, Wood rim steering wheel,
Smiths black faced with chrome bezel instruments, Heater.
Powered by a recent fully re-built 351ci Ford V8, using ARP bolts, Comp cam, Roller rockers, Aluminium Edelbrock performance heads, 4 barrel carb, Edelbrock performance inlet manifold, Holley performance fuel pump, uprated ignition system, etc. Dressed with Chrome rocker covers and air filter, Silicone hoses, Polished aluminium header tank, etc. Big core radiator and twin fan system.
Stainless steel under slung exhaust system. 4 speed top loader manual gear box. Recent brakes and diff re-build. Battery cut off switch. Includes a hood and tonneau cover. A very fast and great to drive Cobra
View Images2009 Autocraft Python 65 Bids Winner - bickyboy 8:46 PM, 09 Jun 2023 Vehicle sold Sold for £24,645 (inc. Buyer’s Premium) -- 281191086LF 1849 5000cc manual Blue Black Left-hand drive Petrol Vehicle location Bonhams|Cars Online HQ, United Kingdom -- Mark's review Mark Livesey - Consignment Specialist Message Mark “ Excellent Example - Ready to Enjoy ” This car has truly been a labour of love over the years and the use of the car has been enjoyed just as much as the build. Now being sold due to changing commitments and family responsibilities we’re sure the Python will continue to delight all who see it. We estimate this vehicle to fetch between £20,000 - £25,000 in auction. Viewing is always encouraged, and this particular car is located with us at Bonhams|Cars Online HQ near Abingdon; we are open weekdays 9am-5pm, to arrange an appointment please use the Contact Seller button at the top of the listing. Feel free to ask any questions or make observations in the comments section below, or try our ‘Frequently Asked Questions’. Vehicle Story Unique Autocraft had their warehouse next to the DAX factory in Harlow, Essex in the 1980s where they made only one model, the Python. The Python was built in small numbers between 1981 and 1993, it is believed that only around 99 were made, based on the AC Cobra, the steel chassis was stretched over a 92” wheelbase onto which the two-seater, open top body was fitted. Jaguars provided the suspension whilst either a V6 or V8 engine of different origin could be fitted depending on customer preference. Unique Autocraft unfortunately went out of business in 1995 but they were revised and remade into ‘R.V.Dynamics’. They continued with the Python, using a ladder frame and multi-tubular chassis to take BMW 5 series components, manufacturing was moved to Sri-Lanka for cost purposes. This car was one of the later models made and was destined for export hence it being left hand drive. It’s now back on home shores and ready for its new owner. -- Paul's Classic Cars Unique Autocraft AC Cobra 427 replica Year 1993 Ford 302 HO EFI engine, 5000 cc V8 Tremec 5-speed gearbox Long chassis (+ 5 cm) Electronic ignition Injection Front and rear disc brakes Power brakes Aluminum radiator Electric fan Stainless steel exhaust Cobra cylinder head covers 18″ aluminum wheels Roll cage Willans harness Moto-Lita wooden steering wheel Deflectors Battery switch 2010: Complete engine overhaul 2009: New paint 2008: New gearbox, new clutch kit, new flywheel LHD, original left hand drive, the car has travelled between the USA, Dubai and England Full history available, purchase invoice, maintenance invoices, technical manuals, period advertising brochures etc. Rare model, 99 copies produced from 1981 to 1993 Appraised in January 2024: €92,000 Sold with French classic registration document and technical inspection OK Revised 6 month warranty Visible by appointment only Delivery possible throughout France REF 1816 Technical data Availability Sold State Very good Year 1993 Cylinder capacity 5.0 L Gearbox Manual Fuel Essence Kind Convertible Doors 2 Int color Black Color Ext Blue States Mechanics: Very good Bodywork: Very good Paint: Very good Interior: Very good Revision Revised Number of reports 5 Registration Card French Number of places 2 Vehicle warranty 6 months
AUTOMATIC Unique Autocraft Cobra This absolutely stunning Cobra was built by Unique Autocraft in 1990 but correctly IVA/SVA registered 01/10/1999 30778 recorded miles from new with two loving owners . Finished in beautiful classic silver coachwork Detailed with Chrome bumpers, P700 Headlamps, Cobra badges, Flat bonnet, Stainless steel side vents, Stainless steel wipers, Wind deflectors, Sun visors, Chrome stone guards, 3 leg drivers roll bar, Chrome flip top fuel filler, Lucas L542 rear LED lights . 15” Compomotive Hallibrand alloy wheels with black inserts , Faux aluminium spinners and B F Goodrich tyres. Classic black leather interior with black carpets, Classic chrome fire extinguisher, Moto-lita wood rim steering wheel, Classic Smiths instruments and classic switches, Chrome hand brake, Willans harness seat belts, Powered by a 350ci / 5740cc High Output Chevrolet V8 , 355bhp / 405lbft spec, 4 bolt main, 10:1 Compression . Spec includes Chrome air filter, Edelbrock 4 barrel carburettor, Performance inlet manifold, Aluminium heads with larger inlet valves, Tubular exhaust headers, Uprated CAM, Aluminium pulleys, HEI Distributor , Polished aluminium rocker covers etc. Automatic “Turbo 400” Gear box with B&M Holeshot torque converter and quick silver shifter . Jaguar differential and brakes with coil over shock adjustable suspension . Full wet weather equipment includes Hood, Solid side windows and Tonneau cover . Excellent history file including factory build photos, Service receipts, MOTs , build receipts etc . An absolute joy to drive with awesome performance
A question that's often asked by Cobra replica enthusiasts is which company produced the first '427' replica in the UK...well, it's not that easy to answer that one. Definitely Paul Banham was sticking Cobra bodies on Triumph TR4s in the late seventies, bodies he bought, I think from Gerry Hawkridge...who probably was the first to create a Cobra replica shape...
Commercially though, it was a very close run thing between Dave Perry (he imported Steve Arntz bodies from America), Metaline, Beribo Replica Automobiles (using Gerry's bodies!), Unique Autocraft and DJ Sportscars, the latter two coincidentally located very close to each other in Harlow, Essex, although quite un-related.
DJ, who at the time, produced nail-on spoilers and body panels in glassfibre had been supplying a German customer with basic Cobra bodies. One day he didn't turn up to collect a consignment so their then sales manager, Adrian Cocking (the man who coined the 'DAX' name by the way, after a character in a Harold Robbins novel he was reading!), persuaded DJ boss, Brian Johns, to produce a 'proper' kit....a small ad in Exchange & Mart to get rid of the German bodies, and suggesting that they were doing their own kit, resulted in so many post cards in response that the sacks filled a couple of Royal Mail vans.
Fact.......the rest as they say, is history. Here's early eighties shots of DAX Cobra and Unique Autocraft Python, the latter pictured at Castle Combe in, I think, 1985 and featuring rear suspension that is properly loaded up judging by the stance of the car. If that's the corner I think it is, the line the driver took could have ended in tears...
The ONLY place to by an AC Cobra.
Often stock Python Cobras
Dream of owning a Cobra, GT40, Jaguar or any classic supercar replica? Then look no where else!! We are a leading Cobra specialist and Cobras are our passion so as well as all the other classic cars like GT40, Jaguar, Supercars, etc, If it is a Cobra you want you have certainly come to the right place. We at Total Headturners buy and sell good quality Replica supercars, classic cars and real headturners. We are a small independent company who aim to take the risk out of purchasing such a car by hand picking and properly preparing them for their new owner.
427 Hardtops Ltd. specialises in designing and manufacturing premium removable Hardtop roofs for all leading brands of the 427 Cobra. Founded by Andy Hatton, with over 45 years of industry experience, we focus on combining classic Cobra aesthetics with innovative engineering. Since launching our first Hardtop in 2013, we now offer two distinct designs, compatible with over eight Cobra brands, and offer global shipping. Inspired by the iconic 1963 Le Mans FIA race cars, our Hardtops honor the legacy of the Cobra while enhancing performance and style.
Europa Specialist Spares has evolved from extensive experience building and restoring specialist vehicles. The sourcing of elusive parts or thought to be obsolete at times has been frustrating, but the delight in successfully assisting so many people has also been exceptionally rewarding. After over 40 years of providing a reliable service and achieving a rewarding reputation, Europa have ripen through previous "realignments of the economy" and have always been resolute, with an ever growing reputation.
This site is about the AC Cobra replicas and continuation models. It includes a range of manufacturers including the usual AK Sportscars, Dax, Southern Roadcraft, Gardner Douglas, Hawk, Pilgrim and of course Unique Autocraft Python Cobras. Many photos and videos to view, just a hobbyist collating collatoral of his own Cobras. AK, Gardner, Unique Autocraft etc.
AK Sportscars Ltd – otherwise known as Neil (the new boss), Jon (the technical boss), Wendi (the office boss), Bob (the Workshop Supervisor), Carl & Liam (the Laminators), Phil (the Welder), Dani (the Production Coordinator), Carrie (the Receptionist/Administrator), Molly (the part time Events Assistant), Laura (the part time Social Media Guru), Crumpet (Meet & Greet) and finally Ed (the computer system creator) This is the AK team. An average family affair – NO – we are passionate about our products – the AK 427, AKSS and the AK40.
Crendon Replicas has been manufacturing authentic style Cobra replicas since 1990. From humble beginnings in Long Crendon (the birthplace of chassis 01 and where Crendon acquired its name). The CR427 is the lifelong accomplishment of now retired John Kerr. His passion for engineering, design, and enthusiasm for nothing other than perfection now lives on in the CR427 under the ownership of Anthony Hale.
Gerry Hawkridge and his company Hawk Cars Ltd. have been building some of the finest replicas for over 30 years, earning themselves the most enviable reputation. At Hawk Cars we supply everything you need to build the car of your dreams. In addition, we hold a wide range of replacement items for original cars, race cars and replicas. Find out more about Hawk Cars Ltd., Gerry Hawkridge and the range of exceptional replica cars we have on display .
‘DAX’ under new ownership. On the 15th August 2017 I’ve acquired the production of the Dax 427 from 427 Motor Company, formerly known as Dax Cars & DJ Sports Cars Int. For over 20-years I have been (and will continue to be) an independent agent in Belgium. During this period I have sold many cars and kits as DAX BENELUX. DJ Sports cars, aka DAX, has been one of the UK’s leading kit car manufacturers for nearly 40-years, and this action sparks an exciting new chapter in the history of this marque, with plenty of brand new development plans for the Dax 427 “Cobra”.
Est. 1990.
Hand crafted performance sports cars, blending the enduring fascination of 1960's charm and beauty with the very best advances in chassis and drive train developments.
Specialist supercar manufacturer with multi-championship winning underpinnings and composite body structures place the GD driving experience amongst the finest performance cars you can drive today.
Remastering the Cobra Replica and T70 Spyder since 1990.
XCS Designs is an artisan car-builder that specialises in creating thoroughly modern and ultra-high quality interpretations of classic two-seater roadsters. Based in Essex, the company is led by talented master engineer Harvey Rice. He directs a dedicated and forward-thinking team of design, development and production engineers, who work together with highly skilled fabricators and classic car enthusiasts to deliver bespoke, handcrafted vehicles that set new industry standards of build quality and safety.
On this site you’ll find out about how the club came to be and how to join, about all the different Marques of cobra and about our social media presence. You’ll also hear about the club sponsored events that go on throughout the year as well as the other events that are not club supported and be able to find the regional pages so that you can find the region you live in and details of the area rep for your region and dates of meets etc. You will also find links towards the club magazine, the club shop, and how to access the club forum.