Keep up to date
Keep up to date with all things Trade Classics, along with new cars.
OPEN TO OFFERS

1988 LR Roadsters RAM Cobra SC 427 – A Classic Evocation

This auction has now closed. Click “I’M INTERESTED” below to enquire about this vehicle or to get notified when we consign a similar one.

  • Mileage~4,357 on clock
  • Transmission3-Speed Automatic
  • Engine5.7-litre
  • LocationSwadlincote

AUCTION CLOSED

1988 LR Roadsters RAM Cobra SC 427 – A Classic Evocation

Register interest for similar cars

Introduction

Darren Rungasamy
Photographer and Editor

Iconic style, a fantastic soundtrack and brutal performance, the RAM is a motoring masterpiece based on the legend we love.

The unmistakable contours of the car instantly struck a chord with the public when the original graced the roads in the 1960s. Its roots go back further, but the simple equations of a powerful American engine in a lightweight, simple chassis designed for open-top driving pushed the values of those original cars to sky-high numbers. Originally built by racing specialists Shelby for competition, he went on to authorise 'continuation cars’ in the 1980s.

Featuring a tubular spaceframe chassis designed by F1 designer Adrian Reynard, the LR RAM was based on the wide bodied 427. It was the only replica to receive Shelby's personal endorsement. The racing-focused backbone chassis provides excellent rigidity and handling, and with the emphasis on utilising American power, the RAM is as close as you can get to the legend.

This stunning 1988 LR RAM 427 is finished in black with a contrasting silver centre stripe, a single chrome roll bar and black leather interior. It is powered by a 351 cu in, 5.7 litre Ford Cleveland V8 mated to a C6 three-speed quick-shift gearbox. With just ~4,357 miles on the clock, it is in excellent condition throughout.

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

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.

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

I only went in to buy one car, but ended up with a collection.

Dave is absolutely a petrol head, there is no denying that - his choice of cars range from a collection of "Fast Fords" spanning 5 decades, to modern supercars like Lamborghini Aventadors and luxury Rolls-Royces.

Dave is thinning down his collection now, and as the classics get much less use, they are coming to market for the first time in a long time. We've already sold a stunning 1993 Ford Escort RS Cosworth for him and now moving on to other cars in his collection that will be coming to market this year.

This particular car was acquired by Dave ~3 years ago and really hasn't seen much use, so it's the next in line for a new home.

Dave will be happy to answer any questions about the car in the comments section below.

Dave
Vehicle Owner

Ask Questions

CONTACT OWNER

Exterior

Stunningly proportioned with poise and presence, the RAM is finished in a menacing colourway.

Wheels and Tyres

The 15” Compomotive alloy wheels are in decent condition, free of scuffs. There are minor signs of age on the chrome rims, but they display positively.

The front and rear of the car are fitted with Avon tyres, with the front showing a spec of 225/65 and 275/55 to the rear - they are believed to be around 10 years old and in good shape, with no sidewall damage and showing even tread.

Please take a look at the photos and videos for a detailed view of the exterior of the RAM and a closer look at the wheels and tyres to make your own assessment of their condition.

Bodywork

The body is free of any significant issues - there's a crack on the lower part of the nose cone and a light scuffing under the nose, but no other discernible body damage noted; the body flows smoothly with no ripples. The doors open and close with ease, although the boot lid bracket will need repair.

The tubular spaceframe chassis and floor pan all look good - the wheel wells, engine bay and boot floor look good too.

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 black paintwork has a pleasing lustre, free of swirls and very little in terms of road wear damage. The finish has an even consistency. There are a couple of minor scuffs on the side panels and a few marks on the bonnet.

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 and lighting are all in good shape.

The chrome work looks smart with no significant marks or damage.

The bumper assemblies are evenly mounted.

Interior

Finished in top-grade leather, the cabin is plush and tasteful.

Seats and Carpets

The leather racing bucket seats are in excellent shape with no major marks or wear.

The carpets are in good shape and are all dry.

Dashboard

The leather-padded dashboard and door cards look smart, free of any scuffs, with just a few light marks noted.

The carpeted centre console is clean.

All of the controls and dials display well, all are said to work as they should, with the exception of the oil temperature gauge which is not operational, and the fuel gauge was jumping during the drive out.

Steering Wheel / Gear Stick

The gear lever and steering wheel are in line with the positive condition of the cabin.

Mechanics

The RAM's thunderous performance offers a very authentic driving experience.

Engine and Gearbox

The start-up process demonstrated a couple of attempts for the engine to catch, and it needed to warm up to maintain an uninterrupted idle. It might require a tune, or simply more use, but once the engine warmed up, it ran smoothly and was restarted several times with no issue or stalling. There was no excessive smoke or unwanted dashboard warning lights during the start-up.

The engine presentation is clean, with decent hoses, ancillaries and components.

The gearbox is a Ford C6 three-speed automatic quick-shift gearbox. Dave demonstrated its operation, and it appears to select gears without any problems.

Suspension and Brakes

The suspension was typically firm, but absorbed the road without any unwanted bangs or thuds.

The car brakes smoothly, and we didn’t hear any grinds or squeals.

Brembo brakes were believed to have been fitted around ~10 years ago.

The Drive

The power from the 351 cu in, 5.7 litre Ford Cleveland V8 was not fully opened, due to the damp road conditions, the owner took us for a civil cruise along a 30 mph route, which allowed us to measure its characteristics at a bite-sized pace. The engine is a strong foundation for high-performance applications, combined with the Ford C6 quick-shift gearbox, which is commonly used in drag racing; the LR RAM is a serious piece of kit.

After the initial hesitation, the engine pulls well on the road, with no hesitation or splutters. As the air filled with the sound of the V8, the engine drove with an even beat and no unwanted noises. Raw in nature, there are minimal driver aids, and a light, rear-wheel-drive chassis needs careful throttle control to prevent spin, but the throttle action appeared to be easy to obtain as the owner managed the small roundabouts and corners.

The steering was direct and free of wobbles or play, and the car brakes without negative feedback. The oil pressure remained at 60 PSI during the drive, and the engine temperature remained in check.

Dave told us that while he’s had the car, he’s checked the oil and it hasn’t given him any reliability issues.

Electrics and Other

The car is fitted with power assisted steering and has a limited slip differential.

History and Paperwork

Believed to have been rebuilt with a mechanical overhaul and retrimmed interior, this RAM was reborn in 2015.

This 1988 car was believed to have been renovated, issued with a new VIN and then re-registered in 2015. Past information from online sale details documents that the RAM was treated to a re-paint, mechanical overhaul and interior re-trim in 2015, but these are not backed up in any invoices. It comes with its current V5 and two previous MOT certificates - one pertains to its original chassis and registration plate. It will need an MOT.

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
19-01-2024 MOT 4,268
28-10-2014 MOT 4,162
15-08-1996 MOT 3,884
Key Details
  • ModelRAM Cobra SC 427 - A Classic Evocation
  • Transmission3-Speed Automatic
  • Year of Manafucture1988
  • V5 Reg. Date23-02-2015
  • CC5,700
  • Mileage~4,357 on clock
  • ColourBlack
  • Interior ColourBlack
  • Interior TrimLeather
  • Chassis #DVLASWA3971502305
  • MOTExpired: 18-01-2025
  • MOT ExemptNo
  • Road Tax ExemptNo
  • HPi ClearYes - All Clear
  • Former Keepers1
  • Tyre BrandAvon
  • Tyre Age2015
  • LHD or RHDRHD
  • VisitedYes
  • Sale TypePrivate
  • Key FeatureFaithful Replica
  • Vehicle RegistrationWGU 571F
  • Fuel TypePetrol
  • Body Type2-Door Roadster
  • Auction ID3137






Auction Closed

Let us know if you're interested

This car didn't meet its reserve price and may soon be available as a private sale - please contact us for more information or let us know if you want to be notified when a similar car comes to market.

I'M INTERESTED
Ask Questions
Post a comment or ask the owner a question about the car.
2 Comments
doctorm
doctorm
11 months ago

In the interior video what are the disconnected wires hanging down under the dash from please?

doctorm
doctorm
11 months ago

Car looks lovely … is the steering wheel a mile off Centre?

MORE COMMENTS MORE COMMENTS

Vehicle Location

Swadlincote

Delivery Calculator


Thank You


Form Submitted

Your request has been submitted successfully and we'll keep you updated.