[lippy]

William,

I wanted to build mine as well and went with the ERA. The experience was very good and the kit turned out great, but ERAs are far more expensive than FFRs and most of the others. I do think FFR makes a great kit, but you should make sure you see a few of any brand you consider in person before you decide.

Whatever brand you use, I would spend the money on an independent rear. With these cars, the combination of a long engine and trans and short wheelbase necessitate a very short driveshaft. With a solid rear that is travel-limited, light weight, and high power, it can be pretty dangerous IMO.

For the engine, all the ones you mentioned are good choices. I have an FE 427 and wouldn't do it differently, but to be honest, the small-block Fords and the Chevy's (esp LS) are probably better engines from power, cost, and reliability standpoints. You shouldn't worry about what others will think. It will be a cool car with a Ford, Chevy, or whatever, so do what you want.

On the wheels, I think the pin drives really make the look of the car. To save money, I went with the 5-pin/adapter set-up, rather than the 6-pin one. Other than a slight weight penalty, they look great and work perfectly.

-Lippy