This has been a most entertaining thread. While I have worked on all my cars in the past, I didn't have the time nor inclination to build my own Cobra, so I did a fair amount of research and decided on a replica that was close to the original, a Contemporary. After having big fun for about three months, the 390FE (it was supposed to be a 428) engine broke broke
and I looked around for a "real" 427 sideoiler. I didn't have much luck and decided to bite the bullet and spring for a more reliable and nasty aluminum Shelby 427 "replica" engine. Of course, that meant I needed to upgrade to a 31-spline top loader, heavy duty suspension and much more. So while I didn't build this car myself, I have learned a lot about it by "rebuilding" much of it. My car is less "original" than it was, but it is a lot stronger and meaner.
I remember going in with just a bit of an attitude when I compared my beast with other Cobras that just "didn't look right." Fortunately, I have gotten to know a number of other Cobra owners and now appreciate their cars as I do mine. My car isn't perfect, but it works for me. And my buddies' cars work for them. But if I met someone with phony sidepipes, I'd really have to bite my lip!
Rich