We joined Backdraft for a tour the facility. Then we picked out a new Rolling Chassis and followed the Backdraft Team in assembling the vehicle to completion. Come join us through this interesting process.
The Backdraft Cobra is undeniably one of the finest examples of South African precision engineering in a complete rolling chassis coupled with a wide variety of Ford power plants to suit the customers requirements for insane acceleration and handling. The cars overall light weight is a major determining factor in the brute force performance regardless of the chosen engine. One of the more interesting engine options mentioned is the Ford Ecoboost Twin Turbo 3.5 liter V-6. Keep in mind that it’s basically the same engine being used in the Ford GT Supercar that’s racking up wins at LeMans and the world over. Considering that the Backdraft Cobra weighs several hundred pounds LESS than the Ford GT, the performance level enters the mind-numbing zone for the adrenaline junkies with deep pockets. There is one Ford small block engine that never gets mentioned but it’s far superior to all Windsor based Ford small block engines for its performance potential per cubic inch. The canted valve small block from Fords 335 series of early performance engines most commonly known as the 351 Cleveland. For those not familiar with it, a good reference of its performance is well documented in the NHRA Pro Stock record books from the 1970’s when it dominated the class. The Cleveland is gaining popularity again as indicated by the new hardcore performance parts that are currently available. The stock production engine blocks that were problematic 50 years ago when the demands of 10,000+ rpm Pro Stock competition revealed its limits, have been replaced by modern versions. The Australian made aluminum alloy blocks from Arrow now have company in the form of high tech versions currently being sourced from American foundries. Available in exclusive cast iron and Alcoa aluminum alloy versions, they feature priority main bearing oiling and thicker bulkheads throughout for additional stability under extreme loads. They have full Cleveland architecture for compatibility with aftermarket and OEM parts. The exterior is identical to the D2AE four bolt main production block so it looks like a stock block. The lower cylinder walls are extended to increase piston stability at BDC in long stroker applications. Customers have many options to choose from including the 9.2”, 9.5” or custom deck heights with full CNC machining done in the States by the vendor, Timothy Meyer. tmeyerinc.com Aluminum alloy cylinder heads for the Cleveland are also available from several manufacturers in Australia and The United States. There are several RU-vid videos available featuring many of the new Cleveland components now available. All alloy stroker engines with single 4-V induction running pump fuel with NO power adders twisting the dyno at levels over 900 hp !!! The superior Ford small block choice for the ultimate Backdraft Racing Cobra build. But what’s up with that “test drive” video that never dipped into the throttle ? Even granny would be like WTF GUYS 🤔.
That Chassis can handle over 1000 HP! I have been to many drag strips, road courses, including Sebring and Daytona, here in Florida. SCCA racing is still a popular sport, and I'm hooked. I also realize the old saying is very true, "With great power, comes great responsibility." Literally.
