[jcraigau]

Down under we have "issues" with compliance when registering our replicas if we don't stick to the guidelines set out by the powers that be. Resale values don't seem to bother Aussies as long as it looks good and goes, some have Toyota V8s in them!

It's going to upset the purists but I'm going LS1 based off the fact we must use an EFI engine no earlier than 1999. On the day I was at the damaged vehicle auction my donor car was a 2001 Holden SS Ute, so for under $6K I get LS1, T56, all electrics, computers, wiring loom, fuel tank, radiator, clutch. The rest I sell off making it a great price to get things rolling.

To really put a cat amongst the pigeons isn't it an English car, not a Ford? What would have happened if Ford were a little bit further along with their GT40 program and told Shelby the same thing GM told him. Hemi powered Cobras? History shows these great cars are "Powered by Ford" so if you are going for a historical replica you need to follow a certain criteria, if you're looking for a great looking replica buy what ever makes you happy!

Now the Coyote might be another story... LS7 hmmm, yes please....

To the OP, drive it, if it feels good buy it. Fix the glass problem, cool paint job, fancy wheels, then if you're still embarrassed by the SBC go Ford. Either way it will be YOUR cobra to do with as you please.

Good luck!

PS: $10-12K would only just get you the chassis/body combo! You guys have got it too good!