Gardner Douglas Cobra Classic Cars for Sale

History of the Gardner Douglas Cobra

Gardner Douglas was established in the UK to reinterpret the spirit of classic Anglo-American sports cars, especially the Cobra. Unlike many kit cars, Gardner Douglas offers complete factory-built vehicles engineered for road and track performance. The Cobra Mk4 emerged from decades of British engineering know-how, blending aggressive 1960s design cues with cutting-edge mechanicals. British marque Gardner Douglas is renowned for creating vehicles that honour the original Cobra’s aesthetic, while improving driving dynamics and safety with modern technology. No predecessor existed for the Gardner Douglas Cobra Mk4 directly within the brand, but the project draws direct inspiration from the Shelby Cobra and British road racing culture of the 20th century.

Model History of the Gardner Douglas Cobra Mk4

The Mk4 Cobra from Gardner Douglas is the brand's signature modern take on the Cobra legacy. Developed for drivers looking for exhilarating performance with uncompromising road presence, the Mk4 features a newly constructed Euro-chassis and is only available as a complete, factory-assembled example. Prior to the Mk4, earlier Gardner Douglas models focused on kit builds, but the shift to a full build service places the Mk4 in a class of its own. The Mk4 remains at the pinnacle of Gardner Douglas’ portfolio without a direct successor, embodying the evolution of tribute cars where authentic craftsmanship, advanced materials, and powerful engines create an uncompromising package.

Highlights and Unique Features of the Gardner Douglas Cobra Mk4

Gardner Douglas' Mk4 impresses with its GM LS3 V8 engine options (6.0L or 6.2L), providing power output between 430 and 525 PS. The inclusion of a manual 6-speed Tremec T56 Magnum gearbox, AP5200 4-piston braking system, a fully adjustable suspension with height and damping settings, and a limited-slip differential (3.23:1) set the tone for enthusiast-level driving. Standard features include powder-coated chassis, three-piece 18” wheels, and performance Toyo tyres. Interior highlights feature full leather, heated seats with integrated headrests, custom carpeting, carbon fibre details, and comprehensive lighting. Safety and technology are paramount, with a tracker, immobiliser, and 4-point harnesses. Factory customisation for both interior and exterior—such as ghost stripes or traffic red paint—allow each car to be tailored to its owner's specification.

Technical Data of the Gardner Douglas Cobra Mk4

Special Editions and Collectible Models

Factory customisations—like bespoke paint (e.g. dark blue with ghost stripes, traffic red), Magnolia or individually chosen leather interiors, and tailor-made accessories—render each Mk4 a unique piece. There are no officially named limited editions, but the wide scope of tailor-made features and the option for complete stainless-steel upgrades ensure that many Mk4 units are singular in their configuration and specification.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

With up to 525 PS delivered from the robust GM LS3 V8, the Mk4 offers a power-to-weight ratio that is reserved for purists with substantial driving experience. Its chassis, equipped with height and damping adjustable suspension, supplies both track-calibre agility and road compliance, enhanced by the 4-piston AP brakes and a responsive Tremec 6-speed transmission. The 3.23:1 limited-slip differential assures traction and driveability even in demanding conditions. The exhaust note from the custom stainless system reflects the unfiltered nature of this machine. Its setup allows experienced drivers to exploit the Mk4’s limits, but makes it unsuitable for novices or the faint-hearted. - Gardner Douglas Cobra Mk4 6.2L LS3 V8 (525 PS): Flagship with full performance package

• Gardner Douglas Cobra Mk4 6.0L V8 (430 PS): Balance of torque and control
• All variants feature performance suspension and AP braking

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

The Mk4 offers a blend of period style with entirely modern execution. Exterior options range from subtle special paint finishes like dark blue with ghost stripes to traffic red; 18” three-piece performance wheels and ceramic-coated details accentuate the visual drama. Interior appointments use full charcoal grey leather and Magnolia or bespoke colours, custom black carpeting, and carbon-fibre spats. Heating for the deeply contoured seats (with integrated headrests), cockpit and boot lighting, and a dual-USB charger add comfort without diluting the experience. The stainless steel upgrades and details reaffirm the uncompromising approach to materials throughout. Weather gear like soft-top, side windows, and tonneau cover make the car suitable for British roads.

Other Relevant Features

The Mk4 includes a remote ECU management port, trickle-charger connection for battery maintenance during longer storage, and a Global Telemetrics tracker for added security and peace of mind. Such modern touches differentiate it from period replicas and make ongoing operation more practical for today’s owners.

Summary

The Gardner Douglas Cobra Mk4 stands at the intersection of tradition and innovation, delivering the look and drama of a 1960s Anglo-American sports car with thoroughly modern engineering. Its numbers speak to its unique status within the Gardner Douglas portfolio, being the sole model currently in production and on offer. Factory customisation, leading-edge performance hardware, and true-to-purpose design establish the Mk4 as a reference for enthusiasts who want authentic engagement—without compromise or generic solutions.