Autocraft Python

[sandpitcobra]

I have just been offered a part finished Autocraft Python. I am yet to take a look at it but was wondering if anyone knows anything about this kit?

Thanks.

[sandpitcobra]

By the way I know the potted history on this forum tells the origins of this kit but what I really want to know is the kit any good? How does it compare to the DAX for quality.

[dingocooke]

I visited them in Harlow in the early 1990's, nice bunch of guys, a small but very well run operation, and very nicely built kit IMO. Chassis very solid, not exactly a subtle GD or RAM, more along the lines of a very strong AK or SR in design (think big box section). The guys were clearly enthusiast, and I was impressed by their outlook. Their backgorund was hot rod/custom cars, and their demo was easily the best finished Id seen. The Python was jag IRS based, and mostly Chevy equipped. They had a very inexpensive and neat solution to the perenial problem of flapping cobra hoods too.
There is a guy on here called Neil Bracken with a python who will give you loads of info too.
Still a really good kit in my opinion, although as Unique Autocraft closed before SVA was introduced, you will probably have a few things to consider to get it through SVA; although that will probably be a mere bagatelle in comparison to the dilemmas Viper builders have to get round.
You ask about a comparison to DAX, well I visited Dax, Unique and RAM in the same week at that time (DAX and Unique on the same day) and they were poles apart as companies, DAX were a lot bigger, a lot busier, and everything at DAX seemed a lot tattier; including the prduct. The chassis of the UA Python seemed a lot better than the very 'flat' profile of the DAX; think box section like a heavy duty AK or SR way rather than a tubular RAM or GD. It appeared much stronger, with better door, bonnet and boot hinges/framework, much more dash support, a very strong diff mounting framework, and a non bonded body chassis. The only downside to this is its probably a bit heavier than needs to be.
The Pythons glass work was in a completely different league to DAX's, which, at the time, was pretty poor. When I visited Unique autocraft, they were building a black Python in gel coat, and the quality shone through.
The people at DAX had a bigger company attitude, and whilst that meant I would probably be more of a number than a customer, and it appeared that the Unique guys would have bent over backwards,I did think Unique appeared a little less strong financially, and were a much much smaller set up. Basically, I would say that Unique felt like a passion that had grown into a business, whilst DAX seemed like a business that was a little lacking in enthusiasm to improve the product.

Of course all these comments are based on what I saw almost 15 years ago, and DAX are the only company in this sector who have survived that period; which says a lot about their commercial skills. Also, since then DAX have moved along in many ways, they now offer the De Dion chassis, although I think their glass work is still very much at the lower end of the quality scale in the UK plastic cobra scene.
One very important thing to consider, when you've built the car and had your fussy out and want to sell it, the DAX will almost certainly command a better resale as it is a car still in production, and probably the best known cobra kit.

Only my opinions and impressions from the time, and to be fair you could have bought and built either kit and been a very happy bunny.

[sumoboy]

I agree with all of Steve's comments.

Just 1 point to add:

The floor pan of the Python, sits on top of the chassis rails instead of between them, this gives a slightly elevated seating position.

Not good, if like me, you are tall.
Although the leg-room is very good..........

Good luck

Dave.F.

[dingocooke]

yes I forgot that detail Dave; its a long time ago! There was loads of leg room as you say. In terms of seat height, I would say the python was similar to a Hawk or Crendon (all of them sitting on top of the chassis) whereas a DAX sits lower (although probably no more than 2").

[sandpitcobra]

Steve and Dav, many thanks for the information. I won't be able to see this kit now until the end of the month but I will let you know what I think of it when I get the chance to have a good look.

[sandpitcobra]

I have looked at the Python now and was very impressed. Seems to be a very solid kit. I plan to make an offer on the car in the next few days.

Cheers,
Ian

[Andy S]

Steve just one small point mate.
Dax isnt the only one still going......
The SR is still available albeit it has now passed from Repower to Madgwicks.

[twiggy]

Originally Posted by sandpitcobra

I have looked at the Python now and was very impressed. Seems to be a very solid kit. I plan to make an offer on the car in the next few days.

Cheers,
Ian

I have owned a python for the last four years and am well pleased with it ! I also have build manuals and loads of info on them if it helps ! They are fairly rare cars as i believe only 90 odd were ever made ! Is it all there ?

[dingocooke]

Originally Posted by Andy S

Steve just one small point mate.
Dax isnt the only one still going......
The SR is still available albeit it has now passed from Repower to Madgwicks.

Hi Andy
Not really mate, because my point was about financial security, and as far as I'm aware, of the kit companies that were around in the late 1980's, only Dax has survived; both RAM and SR kits are still available, but RAM went bust, only to resurface as Realm, and, as you say, SR was sold on twice. So the only kit around available from the companies that were making them then, is the DAX?