1998 Pilgrim Sumo Cobra Replica

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1998 Pilgrim Sumo Cobra Replica

This vehicle has now been sold - click ‘Register Similar’ below to get notified when we consign a similar vehicle.

Sold Price

£8,720

Mileage~500 miles on the clock
Transmission5-Speed Manual
Engine1.8-litre
LocationLeamington-Spa

SOLD

1998 Pilgrim Sumo Cobra Replica

I WANT ONE

Introduction

Darren Rungasamy

Editor and Photographer

Iconic AC Cobra style, engineered for everyday affordability.

Recognised as one of the most successful and widely produced kit cars in British motoring history, the Cobra remains one of the most popular choices for custom builds. Developed by West Sussex-based Pilgrim Motorsports, production of the Sumo began in 1985, and over 12,000 units have since been built and registered for the road. The Sumo achieved its reputation for affordability and straightforward assembly by incorporating components from everyday, mass-market vehicles. While it sports the look of an expensive American racer on the outside, its suspension bushes, steering rack, and brake pads are often robust, easily sourced Ford parts.

Underneath, the vehicle relies on a heavy-duty, ladder-frame steel spaceframe. Later evolutions incorporated steel floor plates and box-shaped transverse beams, creating a remarkably rigid semi-monocoque design that minimises body flex. The exterior features a lightweight, single-piece Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP/fiberglass) body shell mated to a matching GRP inner tub. The use of running gear from a Ford Sierra, allows it to benefit from the proven simplicity, availability, and reliability of Ford components - as well as allowing the Pilgrim Cobra to accommodate a wide variety of engines.

Completed in 2013 to an exceptionally high standard, this 1998 Pilgrim Sumo is finished in striking Isuzu Damson Purple Mica over a finely crafted beige leather interior, covering just 500 miles since completion. The car is offered with past MOT certificates, a current V5C, and a comprehensive paper trail detailing over £18,000 in receipts, build invoices, and parts documentation.

Having been in storage for a period, the engine would benefit from a routine service. Power comes from a 1.8-litre Ford Sierra engine, offering an accessible entry point that lets the driver comfortably manage the Pilgrim's balanced chassis dynamics without anxiety. While the current setup delivers easy handling, it also presents an exciting opportunity for anyone with a small-block Ford or Chevy engine ready to drop in.

This listing was written from information supplied by Darren after meeting Abdel the owner, and having visited and photographed the vehicle.

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Secure Auctions

We verify all our sellers and buyers to keep our community safe whilst also providing the highest levels of website security.

Full Transparency

8 out of 10 people that buy cars via our service don’t feel the need to visit due to the transparency and thoroughness of our listings.

Vehicle Delivery

We're there every step of your buying journey and will even arrange pick-up and delivery of your new vehicle.

Meet the owner

Built as a poignant tribute to the owner's late son, this Cobra stands as a true labour of love.

Originally purchased as a joint project between Abdel and his son Alex, the car was intended as a shared dream to build a Cobra replica together. After gathering the initial kit and components, tragedy struck with Alex’s passing, and the project sat dormant in the family garage for several years.

In 2010, Abdel made the decision to complete the build in Alex's memory. Over the next three years, working alongside a mechanic friend who provided workshop facilities, the car was brought to life to an exceptionally high standard. Completed in 2013, the Pilgrim saw light use before going into storage in 2022, with only occasional runs since to ensure the mechanicals remained free. Abdel is now offering the car for sale due to lack of use and increasing mobility challenges. He will be happy to answer any questions about the car in the comments section below.

Abdel

Vehicle Owner

Abdel saved £1,440* when they
sold their Pilgrim with us.

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EXTERIOR VIDEO

Exterior

Beautifully finished to an exceptionally high standard, this Pilgrim presents in near-showroom condition.

Wheels and Tyres

The car rides on a set of 17-inch Halibrand-style alloys, purchased brand-new directly from Pilgrim in 2012, and kept in excellent condition.

The front is fitted with a Fulda and a 2010 Goodyear tyre, while both rears are 2011 Hankooks, all in a matching 225/50 spec. The nearside rear required air but held pressure throughout the photoshoot and drive, and all four tyres retain plenty of tread.

Please take time to review the photos and videos for a detailed view of the exterior, wheels, and tyres so you can make your own assessment of their condition. Tyres are a key safety item, and you should consider replacing any that are cracked, perished, unevenly worn, or over 10 years old.

Bodywork

The fibreglass body is in excellent condition, having been garaged its entire life with no signs of gelcoat cracking, stress marks, or past repairs. It sits level on the chassis, featuring neat panel gaps and doors that open and latch smoothly.

The clean chassis features a solid floor pan, displaying minimal age and a high-quality finish throughout. The tub's underside, wheel wells, engine bay, and boot floor all remain in great condition.

We've highlighted in more detail our observations through our high-resolution images and videos, so please take time to look through all the media files for a detailed view of what’s on offer, and for you to assess the condition of the car for yourselves.

Paint

The Damson Purple Mica finish shows consistent coverage and a deep gloss with minimal road or scuff wear. While a few flat spots are present in places, the paint presents very well overall.

The images are taken from a few different angles to show off the car as you would see it if you were standing there for yourselves. So please take the time to fully assess these high-resolution images and videos of the car, for you to make up your own minds about the condition of the paint.

Glass and Trim

The windscreen is in great condition, with clean glass and intact seals and lights. The trim is firmly mounted, and while the windscreen's chrome frame shows minor, age-related cosmetic patina, the brightwork is remarkably well preserved overall.

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INTERIOR VIDEO

Interior

Sumptuously trimmed in fine leather, the cabin reflects a build executed with painstaking attention to detail.

Seats and Carpets

The beige leather seats with blue piping are in excellent condition, and the carpets show no signs of wear. Everything remains bone dry, including the boot trim.

Dashboard

The dashboard is smartly presented, featuring an attractive blue and beige leather facia. The toggle switches, dials, and controls are in great condition and are reported to work as they should, with the surrounding interior trim clean and free of significant flaws.

Steering Wheel / Gear Stick

The car retains its original Ford Sierra steering wheel and gear lever. Replacing them with more elegant items would be an easy upgrade to complement this smartly-finished cabin.

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'ON THE ROAD' VIDEO

Mechanics

Don't get us wrong: the engine is definitely adequate. It makes progress well enough, but the quality of this build and the condition of this car combine to make it the ideal candidate for a swap to a more potent V6 or V8 powertrain.

Engine and Gearbox

The engine starts easily and runs smoothly without any unwanted noise. There was a brief puff of black smoke upon startup, which increased slightly when applying throttle; given that it only occurs after resting and clears while driving, this may point to a fuelling or choke issue. Oil pressure spiked high on cold start before settling into the 30 to 80 PSI range while driving.

The 1.8-litre engine (rather than the 1.7-litre mentioned in the mechanical review video) comes straight from the Ford Sierra donor car. It displays decent hoses and ancillaries. While a routine service and tuning will get the current setup running smoothly, it also leaves plenty of scope to drop in a Cologne 2.8-litre V6 or upgrade to a small-block Ford, Chevy, or Rover V8.

No fluid leaks were observed during the inspection.

The 5-speed Ford Sierra gearbox operates smoothly with no reported issues. Widely regarded as a gold standard across the kit car and classic modification scene, it delivers a precise, mechanical shift that suits the driving experience perfectly. The clutch is light to use and functions as it should.

Suspension and Brakes

Utilising running gear from the Ford Sierra donor car, including its suspension and braking setup, the Pilgrim delivers a smooth ride, free from wheel or chassis noise. It even handles speed bumps effortlessly.

Whilst a higher-speed run wasn't conducted during our visit, the Sierra setup is famously straightforward to work on, with parts readily available across the market.

At low speeds, the car brakes evenly without pulling to either side. They bring the car to a prompt, drama-free stop.

The Drive

The durable 1.8-litre Ford block serves as a reliable starter engine for the Pilgrim, offering steady low-end torque and efficiency to get you on the road. While it provides a dependable entry point into those iconic Cobra looks, its tuning and parts potential is limited.

The ride remains smooth, offering a clear view of just how well constructed this vehicle is. Its impressive fit and finish, paired with a solid tubular chassis, mean it is fully prepared to handle significantly more power.

The steering feels compliant and quiet, while it lightens up as speed builds, but might benefit from a quick-rack conversion; it still delivers raw, direct feedback with zero electronic driving aids.

Thanks to its wide stance, low centre of gravity, and massive tyres, the car feels exceptionally planted in a straight line. Paired with the Ford Sierra semi-trailing arm rear suspension, the setup delivers a surprisingly comfortable, forgiving ride over bumps.

The car has seen little use, which likely exaggerates its minor engine quirks. However, since the build was completed, the unit has proven entirely reliable.

Electrics and Other

It comes complete with a canvas hood in excellent condition that fits without any issues.

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History and Paperwork

Retained by the same owner since 1998, it boasts over £18k in documented provenance and has covered just 500 miles from new.

Purchased as a kit in 1998, the build uses running gear from a 1990 Ford Sierra donor. The owner meticulously documented every stage, preserving the original donor V5 alongside an extensive history file. Totalling roughly £18,000, these records cover the donor vehicle, Pilgrim-sourced components, mechanical parts, and professional assembly costs. Professionally built locally to an exceptionally high standard, the car was completed in 2013 and comes complete with its Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) documentation, a current V5C, and a history of MOT certificates through 2021.

We’ve done all our usual seller checks including photo ID, V5 and also actioned a history check on the vehicle - this is a professional check operated by HPI that will highlight if the car has been previously stolen, recorded as being in an accident, or have any outstanding finance - note, this does not include a mileage history check.

We've summarised our own view on the car based on information gained from the seller in the listing above, however, as you can see, we go to great lengths to photograph and video the car in hi-resolution detail - this has been done for you to make your own assessment from the comfort of your sofa. So please sit back, have a cuppa and take your time to review everything on this listing in order to make your own assessment of the vehicle's condition. Viewings are also welcomed with all our listings, so please get in touch with us to arrange a suitable time - we just need to speak to you first and receive a valid photo ID before confirming.

If there's anything you're unsure about, no matter how small, then please first ask the owner in the comments area below before placing your bids, as bids can't be retracted and form a binding contract if you win the car - just like a traditional auction house.

Service History

Date	Type	Mileage
29-03-2021	MOT	477
26-06-2020	MOT	476
02-04-2019	MOT	457
19-12-2017	MOT	456
10-12-2016	MOT	450
18-06-2013	MOT	29

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Key Details

Year1998
ModelPilgrim Sumo Cobra Replica
Transmission5-speed Manual
Reg. Date01-07-2013
CC1769
Mileage~500 miles on the clock
HistorySince new
ColourDamson Purple Mica
Interior ColourBeige
Interior TrimLeather
Chassis #PS201301926512862
Engine #LP03333
MOT29-03-2021
MOT ExemptNo
Road Tax ExemptNo
HPi ClearYes - all clear
Former Keepers0
Tyre BrandVarious
Tyre Age2010
LHD or RHDRHD
VisitedYes
Sale TypePrivate
Owned28 years
Key FeatureNear-showroom condition, covered just 500 miles.
Vehicle RegistrationH84 POK
Fuel TypePetrol
Body Type2 door Convertible
Auction ID3998

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All Images

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Vehicle Sold

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This vehicle has now been sold - click 'I Want One' below to get notified when we consign a similar vehicle.

I WANT ONE

Ask Questions

Seller : AbdelW Sale Date 24.09.2026

Post a comment or ask the owner a question about the car.

6 Comments

ColinB

Admin

16 days ago

*** RESERVE LOWERED ***

Abdel has decided to lower the reserve so the highest bidder is more likely to win the car tomorrow evening, good luck!

Thanks,
Colin.

rocky2

14 days ago

No reply to my question leads me to belieave there is an engine problem..

rocky2

15 days ago

can you answer some of our questions??

rocky2

16 days ago

Hi, i cant help noticing that the car is running very rough, its got a misfire ,or something wrong with the valves, have you had it looked at???? does it over heat..

ColinB

Admin

rocky2

14 days ago

Hi,

Abdel asked me to pass on his reply:

“When starting from cold it sounds as you heard. My use has always been local.”

Thanks,
Colin.

dwmusicman

20 days ago

Hi Abdel.
Has you’re Cobra a galvanised chasis like many of the Pilgrim Sumo Cobra’s have ? Does it leak oil at all with being an old engine ? Regards Dave.

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Vehicle Location

Leamington Spa

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