Built in December 1968, this car was used by the London dealer Colliers as a demonstrator, and sold to Mr Ian Harris, from whom I bought the car. CF16 is one of only 19 Frua 428 Cobras ever built. AC continued to use the 427 Chassis for the first three 428 cars, and then they lengthened the chassis by 10 cm for the production cars, transforming the 427 racer into a fast, comfortable grand touring sports-car with comfortable seats, an excellent hood, electric windows and a sizeable boot. The twin exhaust systen has been replaced in stainless steel with a larger bore, 60mm, which makes a very agreeable music. The chrome wire wheels are only 3 years old and have only done 3000kms. CF16 is one of only 14 428 cabriolets to be fitted with Ford's very strong automatic gearbox. I have replaced the petrol tank with a larger specially made tank with the enormous LE MANS filler cap inside the boot (2 were made, one also for CF6) The original filler was very slow and badly thought out, and the original external filler flap now conceals the battery master switch with removeable key, a good safety and anti theft device. The car has been completely repainted. The engine has been completely rebuilt, the block fitted with 8 new sleeves, new lightweight forged pistons, the iron cylinder heads and inlet manifold have been replaced by new Lead-free Edelbrock Performer aluminium cylinder heads and inlet manifold (saving over 40kgs on engine weight!) New crank bearing, chain and oilpump overhauled. The front and rear suspension has been completely rebuilt, and new front shock absorbers fited, specially made by Spax. 40,000 miles in 38 years is backed up by a documented history.
Sale Information Lot 33. Sale 6449 Exceptional motor cars and automobilia 26 March 2001 London, King Street.
...."This convertible has been in the present ownership for 29 years, and was for many years used as an everyday car, although its recent use has been limited, which is the reason that we offer it for sale. The vendor has always kept the car on the road in this period, and has had it maintained, although it has never undergone a full restoration. The most recent repaint to the present livery does also show a few signs of age as does the interior which is original. The dash features the early, more attractive layout.
All 428's are rare, and this has the benefit of being offered from long term ownership."
