Hal
I've crawled around the insides and outsides of both, and they are fraternal, rather than identical, twins. One of the most substantial differences (not all that substantial) occured quite recently when SAI went to a more modern electrical system, with relays and fuses that appear to match those of a modern production car. Kirkham's wiring is pretty much the same, appearance-wise, as an original. On the other hand, the Kirkhams have developed highly adjustable and sleek looking arruminum suspension components while still offering up the old style if you wish. SAI offers Girling brakes like the originals, but offers the choice of Brembo (I think), while Kirkham goes with Wilwoods. Kirkham uses full wool carpets, done in snap-in pieces on the floors for cleaning and replacement, like the originals; SAI uses one-piece carpeted floors with what I believe is a wool/
synthetic mix (I may be wrong about it being a blend). SAI uses fuel cells, Kirkham uses an SS gas tank. Kirkham's dash braces are fixed; SAI's are removable. SAI uses a push-pull for its lighting switchgear, and a turn signal high beam switch; Kirkham uses a three position light switch and an original style floor mounted high beam switch. Windshield frames come from two different suppliers. Obviously, there are more differences, such as Kirkhams now offering the SS frame, etc., but you get the idea about them being darn close. Casual observers would never notice.
As Wayne has explained, the folks working for either operation are respectful of the fact that knocking one is to knock both.
Definitly a sight to behold...every time I turn on the garage light.
