Kit Cars

Kit car registration varies dramatically by state. California and a handful of states require a referee inspection and smog certification. Most other states will issue a title based on the manufacturer's certificate of origin (MCO) from the kit maker (Factory Five, Backdraft Racing, etc.) or as a "specially constructed vehicle" using the chassis VIN. Contact your state DMV before purchasing for specific requirements.

Confirm the build quality: professional-quality wiring loom, properly routed fuel lines, correct brake proportioning, and a properly aligned suspension. Ask for build photos showing the quality of the chassis work. Verify the donor components used (engine, transmission, suspension) and their condition. Incomplete or amateur builds can cost as much to correct as a fresh build would cost to complete.

When properly built, modern kit cars like the Factory Five 427 Roadster and Backdraft RT3 are extremely reliable because they use proven donor platforms (Fox-body Mustang, Coyote 5.0, or Tremec transmission). Reliability depends almost entirely on the builder's skill level. A professional-built Factory Five will be more reliable than many factory sports cars. Ask for a builder resume and reference list.

Specialty insurers like American Collectors, Grundy, and Hagerty insure kit cars at agreed-value rates — typically much lower than collector car insurance because kit cars have a known replacement cost. You'll need an appraisal and photos. Some states require a safety inspection before insuring a specially constructed vehicle. Liability coverage is straightforward; it's comprehensive and collision that require agreed-value policies.