By Dean Larson

Imagine for a minute that you’re a Shriner (those middle aged guys in the local parade driving the tiny cars), but also a car guy. You have to fit in with your fellow brethren and their tiny parade cars, but you’ve never been content with stock performance and want to be the sure victor should a grudge-match drag race ever happen. If, by some chance, this is you and you’re looking for the ultimate parade burnout machine, look no further than this 1/3-scale Shelby Cobra.

If you’re not a Shriner, then you’ll surely put the Shriners to shame with the looks and performance of this baby. “Nasty Fast,” that’s how the current owner describes the power that this Cobra directs to the pavement. And with the roller blade-derived wheelie bars, we believe it. The owner cites that horsepower comes by the way of a 420cc engine, which we’d assume to be this Predator unit. If we’re correct, you'll have no less than 13 horsepower spinning the Cobra’s two speed automatic and limited-slip, 3:1 ratio differential. 

The Cobra’s looks are honestly cartoonish, but in the best way possible. The 1/3rd scale body is clean, and possibly more streamline than the genuine article, and the wheel covers would look right at home in an episode of Wacky Races. In terms of finishing touches, the Cobra outfitted better than some vehicles on the road today with working headlights, taillights and mirrors on both sides. The builder didn’t skimp on the tiny interior either. You’ll find it finished with carpeting and rolled and pleated upholstery.

Admittedly, we’re not experts when it comes to 1/3rd scale automobiles, so we’re not positive what to tell you about the owner’s $4,500 asking price other than he’s probably correct, it is one of a kind.