Family, Friendship, and Memories: Patrick W.’s Factory Five Journey
Patrick W.’s Factory Five build story spans over a decade and is filled with family memories, friendships, and a whole lot of passion for cars. It all began back in 2005 when Patrick picked up his Mk3 Roadster kit. Like many others, the build took time, and it wasn’t until 2009 that the project came together. For Patrick, the journey was more than just putting the car together—it was about the experiences along the way.
One warm December day during the build, Patrick rolled the Roadster chassis out of the garage. His son Shane, then just 8, and daughter Abigail, 6, were there to witness it. These moments back in 2009 are moments Patrick looks back on fondly. The car itself is just part of the story.
Over the years, Patrick has become more involved with the Upstate NY Cobra group, a passionate group of Factory Five owners and car enthusiasts. Over the years they’ve shared countless drives, adventures, and memories. One of the most exciting events is their “Lake George Summer Run.” This event is more than just a chance to hit the road—it’s a chance to reconnect with friends who share the same passion for these iconic cars.
As Patrick says, “the friendships made along the way have been just as rewarding as the build itself.” Fellow FFR owners like Scott P., Jens W., Jerry R., Dan C., Larry F., Pat B., Jesse L., Charles K., and Stephen H. have all become part of his extended car family. Whether it’s meeting up for drives or hanging out, Patrick’s Factory Five has created lasting bonds. During their last “Summer Run” a good day was topped off with awards to the Factory Five crew like the ones Jens and Larry recently won!
Of course, the sentimental family stories have been just as much of a bonus as building a Factory Five and developing lifelong friends from it. One story that stands out for Patrick is when his daughter, then just 7, came home from kindergarten after having a rough day. The only thing that could cheer her up? A ride in the Cobra, of course. The car, which was still in its gel coat from the early days of the build, quickly became a symbol of comfort and joy for his family. It’s these kinds of memories that make the journey and miles more meaningful.
Patrick’s build may have started as a personal project, but it has turned into so much more. It’s become a way to create memories with his children, form lasting friendships with fellow car enthusiasts, and to be part of a larger community that shares a passion for Factory Five builds. For Patrick, it’s not just about the car—it’s about the people, the moments, and the joy that the journey has brought into his life.
And the journey isn’t over. With the car still evolving and new events always on the horizon, Patrick looks forward to more drives, more laughs, and more memories made with his Factory Five family. As he says, “Some of us have been around longer than others, but it’s always a great time.” Here’s to many more years of cruising, camaraderie, and cherished moments in the Factory Five community.
Patrick’s build started in 2005 and was on the road by 2009. It was painted in 2010, after plenty of time spent enjoying the car in its gel coat! His Factory Five Mk3 Roadster is powered by a ‘01 Ford Explorer 302 engine, equipped with a Holley 570 Street Avenger carburetor, WC T-5 transmission, and 3-link rear suspension with 3.73 gears. It also features Wilwood pedals mounted with Mike Forte’s bracket, a 5-lug conversion, Baer 13” front and 12” rear brakes, and FFR 17″ Bullitt wheels.
While the build might seem more basic by today’s standards, its personal touches—like the Jaguar Racing Green paint with Mazda Silver Reflex stripes—make it truly special. The addition of stainless Gas-n pipes and the fact that it has no power steering or brakes gives it an old-school, raw driving experience. Patrick’s daughter, Abigail, now 22, can handle it with ease!
Patrick’s Factory Five journey is one of passion for cars and building connection. From its early days in the garage with his kids to its place at the heart of his car family, his car is a reflection of the people and memories that make it so much more than a build.
