Inspired by the classic AC Cobra, the Blade concept is based on a full DOM and Chrome Molly steel chassis consisting of tubular roll cage affixed to a solid ridged box steel frame.

The chassis is combined with a lightweight full vinyl ester hand laid fiber-glass body with functional trunk doors and hood. A possible carbon-fiber body is currently being evaluated.

The engine compartment is designed to accept a wide range of units, from a Ford Big Block or Modular engine to a smaller lighter BMW Engine. The first prototype will be powered by a Roush 400IR stroked small block Ford unit delivering 500+ hp.

The Blade will be equipped with a fully adjustable independent front and rear suspension with adjustable shocks that will allow customers to easily set it up for road and for racetrack use.

Among Neal Bailey's partners for the Blade project is engineer Eric Rodela who helps with the 3D modeling and technical aspects of the build process.

The project has recently been moved to a large manufacturing facility which will increase the speed of the progress and development of the first prototype.

"Lone Star Classics has generously allowed us to lease space and access to their equipment. Lone Star Classics is one of the top competitors in the Cobra replica market and has a great facility for such a project."

The first prototype is expected to be finished towards the end of this year, and Bailey's goal is to have the Blade ready for sale in early 2009, with an estimated price ranging between $50,000 and $80,000 depending on the configuration and options requested by customers.

One of the project's goal is to market the car overseas, so the Blade will meet European standards and accept both left and right hand drive versions.

For more information on the project visit www.baileyspeed.com.

Concept and Design

Talking about the concept behind the Blade, Neal Bailey explains: "The idea was to incorporate modern and classic styling into a single flowing design. Many days were spent considering cars on the road and sketching ideas that came to me while sitting in traffic."

"The concept literally started from the ground up. Inspired by the legendary Shelby Cobra, the idea was to have something that had the raw power and look of the classic 60s cars, but with today's suspension technology and performance characteristics of a modern sports car."

"My goal was for everyone to see this car and recognize certain aspects of their favorite car in the design. People say it looks like a Mustang, Dodge, Corvette, BMW, Jag, Austin Martin etc. It went through many design stages - at least a few hundred - before I decided on the final design.

"I tried to capture specific feelings and emotions that make cars special and timeless and incorporated some of these into the design to give it that familiarity that I think people see in the car."

The chassis was designed using an existing chassis from a Replica Cobra but with several modifications to accommodate a modern adjustable independent front and rear suspension.

After the chassis was designed, work began on the body and the overall look of the car. "I wanted to make it sleek, sexy and aggressive."

From the very beginning there was a major specific goal for this car; that was to make sure that tall people could fit in it comfortably and look good as well.

"Since I am 6'4" it has always been difficult to fit into small sports cars. Special precautions were taken to design the car in such a way that anyone who is 6'6", possibly taller can easily fit into the car."

About the Designer

The creator of the Blade Concept is Neal Bailey, age 35, located in Texas.

He currently works as Director of Internet Marketing and Development for a diesel performance company, but he has always had a passion for sportscars.

He has built and restored several vehicles in the past and he recently built a 66 Shelby Cobra 427 replica. During the construction process he found himself upgrading, adding and improving on about every aspect of the car.

"I just found myself wanting to make it unique and different. While making all the changes a light bulb went off and I thought - I should just build my own car!"

(Image Courtesy: Neal Bailey)