9781956309218
Uncover the origins and assembly of the 1962–64 leaf spring Cobras in England and the United States.
Cobras: The Building of the Leaf Spring Cars is a road map to how the 1962–64 leaf spring Cobras originated and were put together by AC Cars in England. This book also details how the cars were completed in the United States by European Cars in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and by Shelby American in Venice, California.
The thirteen chapters of this volume cover all major Cobra components consisting of chassis construction, aluminum body forming, engine development, driveline components, upholstery, and finishing techniques. Each chapter is illustrated with dozens of rare original black-and-white factory photographs and background material, such as component illustrations and parts numbers. The research information included in these pages is the product of over a dozen of the most knowledgeable Cobra researchers, historians, and restorers in both the United States and the United Kingdom. This comprehensive reference is an ideal restoration resource for anyone restoring a 1962–64 leaf spring Cobra and for fans, collectors, and automotive historians.
Cobras: The Building of the Leaf Spring Cars is a road map to how the 1962–64 leaf spring Cobras originated and were put together by AC Cars in England. This book also details how the cars were completed in the United States by European Cars in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and by Shelby American in Venice, California.
The thirteen chapters of this volume cover all major Cobra components consisting of chassis construction, aluminum body forming, engine development, driveline components, upholstery, and finishing techniques. Each chapter is illustrated with dozens of rare original black-and-white factory photographs and background material, such as component illustrations and parts numbers. The research information included in these pages is the product of over a dozen of the most knowledgeable Cobra researchers, historians, and restorers in both the United States and the United Kingdom. This comprehensive reference is an ideal restoration resource for anyone restoring a 1962–64 leaf spring Cobra and for fans, collectors, and automotive historians.
400 pages | 677 color plates, 107 halftones | 9.06 x 11.02 | © 2025
History: History of Technology
Transportation: Automotive

Table of Contents
Introduction
Chapter 1: Chassis and Substructure
Chapter 2: Body and Related Equipment
Chapter 3: Paint
Chapter 4: Upholstery and Tool Kits
Chapter 5: Generator and Alternator Electrical Systems
Chapter 6: Small Block Cobra Engine Development and Engine Types
Chapter 7: Transmissions
Chapter 8: Differential, Final Drive and Rear Suspension, Braking Systems
Chapter 9: Radiator, Cooling System and Expansion Tanks
Chapter 10: Cooling Fans
Chapter 11: Steering Systems and Steering Wheels
Chapter 12: Options and Accessories
Chapter 13: Undercarriage Components, Suspension, Wheels and Tires
Bibliography
Index
Chapter 1: Chassis and Substructure
Chapter 2: Body and Related Equipment
Chapter 3: Paint
Chapter 4: Upholstery and Tool Kits
Chapter 5: Generator and Alternator Electrical Systems
Chapter 6: Small Block Cobra Engine Development and Engine Types
Chapter 7: Transmissions
Chapter 8: Differential, Final Drive and Rear Suspension, Braking Systems
Chapter 9: Radiator, Cooling System and Expansion Tanks
Chapter 10: Cooling Fans
Chapter 11: Steering Systems and Steering Wheels
Chapter 12: Options and Accessories
Chapter 13: Undercarriage Components, Suspension, Wheels and Tires
Bibliography
Index
Be the first to know
Get the latest updates on new releases, special offers, and media highlights when you subscribe to our email lists!