1970/90s LR RAM SC 427 Cobra Evocation

Lot details
Registration No: XAX 95H
Chassis No: IG4385BW
Mot Expiry: April 2009

Founded in the mid-1980s by Adrian Cocking, LR Roadsters commissioned Dr Adrian Reynard of F1 and Indy car fame to design the tubular spaceframe chassis for its AC Cobra 427 Evocation, the RAM SC. Penned by David Rendall under Reynard's supervision, the triangulated structure placed particular emphasis on torsional stiffness and rearward weight distribution. Outsourced to Brady Fabrications of Bicester, it sported an unusually large transmission tunnel that allowed the engine / gearbox assembly to be set well back. Typically assembled using a combination of Jaguar running gear and American (or Rover) V8 powerplants, the RAM SC was personally endorsed by none other than Carroll Shelby. An effective racing car especially in the hands of ex-LR engineer Cheng Lim (winner of the 1998, 1999 and 2000 Historic Sports & GT Racing series), the model has been out of production for some time but remains keenly sought after among Cobra enthusiasts.

Finished in dark green with a gold centre stripe and brown leather upholstery, this particular example is variously described by the vendor as being in "OK" (electrical equipment, interior trim, bodywork, paintwork) or "good" (engine, gearbox, chassis, wheels / tyres) condition. Thought to have been built during the 1990s using a 1970 Jaguar XJ6 S1 donor vehicle (the identity of which still appears on its registration document), 'XAX 95H' was bought by a previous keeper from Chelsea Cars in 1997. Retaining a MOT test certificate issued that year which lists it as a "Green Cobra", the RAM SC boasts a 7.4 litre Chevrolet V8 engine allied to four-speed Muncie manual transmission. Believed but not warranted to develop approximately 430bhp, the 'big-block' motor sups unleaded fuel via a Holley carburettor and is apparently kept in check by a limited slip differential, Spax adjustable shock absorbers and four-wheel disc brakes. Further benefiting from a burr walnut dashboard, 200mph Smiths speedometer, Halibrand wheels and side-exit exhaust pipes, the two-seater entered the current joint ownership in 2002. Garaged ever since 'XAX 95H' was treated to a fresh clutch about 1,000 miles ago while other recent work is said to have included "a new steering rack, starter motor, battery, two tyres and replacement head gaskets". Offered for sale with sundry paperwork and MOT certificate valid until April 2009.