[Doug Axelrod]

Friend of mine figured he could get into a self-built for about $3K less than a SPF, at least the way he wanted it done. Not counting any time, of course. I figure if you're good and have resources, you could come in for tangibly less.

For me, without any mechanical skills or resources, the answer was a turnkey offering professional and close support. I've been happy with that choice.

But I can well understand those that put their Cobras together bolt by bolt and the sense of attachment and connection that entails. I sincerely envy you mechanical guys that.

But on the other hand, putting lots of hours and miles in the cockpit under varied conditions, including 1 degree on Saturday (hard tops help...) and some track time, the connection is different than with other cars used just for transportation.

If I can add to Roscoe's wisdom here at all, it's only to drive your cars. Drive them a lot, even when conditions aren't perfect. That's the only way to feel that extraordinary connection with these beautiful brutes.