New Factory Five Roadster Mk5
Factory Five Racing, one of the premiere kit car companies in the US, recently announced the 5th generation of their Roadster kit car. This new edition of their original model is based on the ironic Shelby Cobra.
What’s New In the Roadster MK5
The MK5 is substantially different than it’s predecessors. The Mk5 updates the Roadster for the first time in nearly 15 years, with the previous version the Mk4 bowing in 2010.
New updates include an all new chassis. Stronger, larger, safer. The new frame is almost entirely new in design. The new MK5 designed is also intended to streamline the build process. Another huge step up for those who may use their Factory Five at the track is a significantly modernized suspension, including Aluminum control arms.
Options And Customizations
Engine choices largely return with popular variations including the 302, 351 Windsor, 427, as well as more modern 4.6 single or dual cam motors. Even the 5.0 Coyote. One new engine option is a massive 7.3 that is still in prototype.
A number of new features also help modernize the MK5. Available options include self canceling turn signals, updated wipers, HVAC and more.
Continuing forward are a dozen or so customizations around exhaust, power braking, hood scoops, mirrors and more. All of these help builders provide a personal touch to their car without needing to do custom spec.
There is even an optional removable hard stop available.
MK5 Pricing
The base kit without a donor or build increases to $24,990. Fully spec’d out versions easily run into the 30K range or higher. You’ll also need to plane a donor driveway of your choice. Assembly and other costs are not included.
Insuring A Factory Five Roadster MK5
Factory Five Racing insurance isn’t like covering most cars. The average investment in these vehicles with donor components and build can easily exceed $50K, we’d recommend looking into insurance designed for kit cars. This type insurance will protect your Factory Five with agreed value coverage and an insurer than understands it’s covering a Factory Five.
Factory Five Roadster MK5 Specifications
Suspension
- Front Suspension type: Independent double arm
- Rear Suspension type: Solid rear axle 4-link, 3-link with panhard bar, or IRS
- Shock-Springs: KONI coil-over with ride height adjustability
- Steering: Manual or power assisted rack and pinion
- Brakes: Vented 11/11.65 disc f/r
- Wheels: Vintage or modern 15”, 17”, or 18” diameter
- Tires: Common sizes are 245 series front/315 series rear
Vehicle
- Weight: 2,250 lbs.
- Weight Distribution F/R: 46.9/53.1 (percent)
- Wheelbase: 90 inches
- Overall Length: 158 inches
- Front Track: 58.5 inches
- Rear Track: 58.5 inches
- Overall Height: 48.0 inches
- Overall Width: 70.5 inches
- Ground Clearance: 4.5 inches
- Fuel Capacity: 15 gallons
Construction
- Layout: Front/mid engine RWD Roadster
- Frame: Space frame with integral backbone
- Roll Bar: 3-point, structurally mounted 1.5” DOM Tubing
- Sub-Structure: Aluminum paneling riveted and bonded to frame
- Restraint System: 5-point harness
Images and technical details courtesy of Factory Five Racing.
