Cobra or Lightning???

This is a pretty vague post, need more info about what you intend to do with the ride. I say snake, but a truck may be better suited for your needs.

I've driven '01 versions of both (I own the cobra, my Dad the Lightning) and I really don't think you'll be disappointed either way. I lean toward the snake myself, but that's just me...and I like shifting. The truck sure is nice, though, and I'd vote 50/50 comparing an '01 to an '01. Putting the Lightning up against an '03, it's no contest - get the Cobra!

I say go for the Cobra

You can never go wrong with the Cobra, but in your case maybe the Lightning is in order.

I have a lightning and it is the sweetest truck I've ever owned. But it is still a truck. I kept my 93 cobra for the longest time and right now my little brother has it and is planning on buying it. We've already agreed and I'm already looking for another 93 cobra. I haven't had the pleasure of driving the new cobra but I have ridden in them and the lightning just doesn't compare. But in my situation the Lightning is perfect. I do, however, miss shifting. It really comes down to preference. The cobra is a lot faster and is easy to make fast whereas the lightning is a heavy brick and not quite as easy to make fast. As for ride, the lightning handles like a car, albeit a heavy car, and the cobra outhandles the lightning by a longshot.

My advice is to test drive both vehicles and think about what you want in the longterm. They are not the cheapest vehicles and you may regret what you get if you don't sleep on it.

Good luck.