Hi Jason,
First off, welcome to the club!
Lots of great advice above, here is my .02 for what it's worth.
Below is a link to a thread that Illustrates exactly what you are talking about … there are a lot of choices when considering which way to go.
CSX2000 Fender Flares - AC / Shelby American / Privateers -
ERA makes a wonderful Cobra and can pretty much custom make whatever you like, but as mentioned above, if you stray too far from their standard offerings, it will cost more money … and take more time.
I was interested in a 289 car, and after a lot or research selected ERA and ultimately went with the FIA body with no hood scoop, no
oil cooler scoop and no trunk bumps. It has the FIA dash, quick jacks and to me the best part is the grille. In a way it's bit of an odd duck, as it does not replicate a particular CSX car and I doubt any were ever built quite like this one and that's OK with me.
You are wise to do your homework, and as also noted above, when choosing the key elements of the car like body shape (and color for that matter) take the time and spend the money (within reason of course) to get what you are looking for. Things like motors, suspension options, wheels, seats and the like can be changed later if needed, bodywork and paint not so much.
Best of luck with your build!
- Tim