As we approach the final month of 2024, we’d like to take a moment to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

We have had another big year at Matamata Panelworks and one of the more notable achievements was adding Almac Cars to our performance division.  Almac now sits proudly alongside Tickford and Shelby to perfectly compliment our Collison Repair and Restoration divisions. You can read more about Almac down below.

In the meantime, we would like to extend a huge thanks to all our valued customers who have trusted us to repair, restore, design and build some really cool cars this year. We would also like to say a big thank you to our many other customers that currently have work underway or booked in and scheduled to start early next year. 

Stuck for Christmas Present Ideas ?

If you are looking for that special Christmas present idea for the car enthusiast in your life, be sure to head on over to our Shelby NZ store and check out our large selection of licensed Shelby apparel and merchandise. We’ve just had a large shipment of new products arrive, so get in quick while stocks last.

Nothing gets your pulse racing and stirs the imagination like a Shelby Cobra! 

The original Cobras lightweight design, combined with the brute power of a V8 engine, resulted in astonishing acceleration and impressive performance that still captivates car enthusiasts today. Design features, such as the long bonnet, flared fenders, menacing racing stripes and the glorious sounding exhaust have all contributed to its legendary status.

Today, original Cobras remain highly coveted collectors items, symbolizing innovation, speed and American automotive accomplishment. The Shelby Cobra not only stamped its mark in the world of auto racing but also in pop culture, cementing its place as one of the most iconic sports cars in automotive history. The legacy of the cobra continues to inspire new generations of car enthusiasts and collectors around the world.

Almac Cars (a division of Matamata Panelworks) can now build you a state-of-the-art turn-key Shelby Cobra replica based on the most iconic of all Cobras – the 427SC.

Since buying Almac Cars from the founder (Alex McDonald) in May 2024, our team at Matamata Panelworks has re-engineered almost every aspect of the Almac 427SC Cobra Replica to take advantage of modern components, current engineering practices and high-tech manufacturing processes.

Our cars are not only beautifully hand-crafted and a pleasure to look at, but with modern suspension, brakes and steering components, plus three different powertrain packages to choose from, they will also perform like no other Cobra replica ever built in the past!

Although many design elements and build processes for the Almac 427SC have changed significantly since its inception, certain features such as bonding the floor and bulkheads to the outer body and moulding steel support structures into integral parts of the shell have all been retained, as this has proven over a long period of time to give a superior rigid structure that will always retain its shape no matter what.

In addition, the precision laser cut Almac 427SC chassis retains an original robust ladder-style design, but numerous changes have been made and re-engineered using 3D CAD software to allow us to take advantage of modern components and current LVVTA build regulations.  A coupe of these changes include fully adjustable front and rear suspension, quick ratio motorsport steering rack, S550 Mustang IRS, larger brakes, front and rear safety crush zones, functional roll-over bar, vastly improved driving position with adjustable seats, adjustable pedal-box and electronic park brake, just to name a few.

When buying an Almac 427SC, you don’t just get a car; you get an experience – a blend of classic design, modern engineering, exhilarating performance and an unparalleled driving experience that captures the spirit of freedom and honours the legacy of the original Shelby Cobra.

Whether you’re a collector, a weekend racer, or a true automotive enthusiast, the Almac 427SC is sure to impress. 

To learn more about the all new Almac 427SC please phone 027 500 2875 or Email: almac@panelworks.co.nz

 

New Mustang S650 Shelby Super Snakes coming soon! 

Shelby’s new Super Snake ushers in a new era of automotive excitement, boasting a range of thrilling features designed to redefine performance for the next generation S650 Mustang. With a striking all-new look, this iteration of the Super Snake stands out as the most engineered and driver-focused production model to date. Its heart-pounding performance is driven by an impressive 830+ horsepower supercharged V8 engine, meticulously calibrated to deliver exhilarating power and performance.

Key features of the Super Snake Mustang elevate its performance to new levels. The vehicle’s focus on air management and cooling ensures optimal performance in even the most demanding driving conditions. Lightweight magnesium alloy wheels contribute to enhanced agility and responsiveness, while the use of advanced materials such as carbon fiber reduces weight and improves overall performance. With meticulous attention to detail, every aspect of the Super Snake’s design is crafted to maximize performance and driving enjoyment.

It’s not often Shelby New Zealand have new cars for sale, as most are built to order, but early next year we will have three brand new Mustang S650 Shelby Super Snakes for sale. Colour choices will be black, red and white.  

 Call Ross on 027 500 2875 to place your order or visit our website for more details –  www.shelbynz.co.nz

Did you know Matamata Panelworks also offer a large range of exclusive Tickford and Shelby performance parts, accessories & upgrades to suit most 2015 t0 2024 Mustangs

– Mustang 5.0 N/A Performance Packages for 2015 to 2023 Mustangs

–  Supercharger Systems from 627Hp to 850+Hp for 2015 to 2024 Mustangs & over 1000+Hp for 2020 and up GT500’s

– Mustang Brake Upgrade Package

– Mustang Suspension Upgrades 

– Mustang Driveline Upgrades

– Mustang Exhaust Systems 

– Mustang Wheel and Tyre packages

– Mustang Spoilers, Body Kits and Panels

– Mustang Interior Upgrades

– Custom Graphics Packages and Window Tinting

– Shelby Wide Body Conversions for 2005 to 2014 Mustangs

Call us anytime to discuss options and ideas for your Mustang 

Phone: 027 500 2875 or Email: ross@panelworks.co.nz

Once again we wish you all the very best for a fun and enjoyable holiday season. Travel safely, and we look forward to catching up with you all again next year 🎅