Why does every thread here devolve into a "Real" vs. "Replica" argument?

[twobjshelbys]

Originally Posted by 1ntCobra

If Carroll Shelby used the term "real" to describe his continuation Shelby Cobras I think he would be OK with you calling your car "real" too. Why do you need SAAC's approval if the Shelby himself thought it was OK. If the man was OK with "real", I guess I am OK with it too.

Now if you call your car "original" or claim that Carroll personally installed your hood scoop to get the rivet patter just right, I am going to be upset with you. I will be watching to keep you in line...

The night I bought my Cobra at Barrett Jackson was before the time in the auction when we sold a car with proceeds to the Shelby Foundation. I spoke with Carroll on the phone and we chatted about the donation, etc. Then I told him I'd bought a CSX Cobra a few hours before [thankfully the TV coverage blinked for a commercial and I got to tell my wife on the phone instead of the camera that was shoved in my face]. Carroll was more excited about me getting the CSX4005LA car than the donation. He congratulated me on getting a real cobra, but was more intrigued that it was one of the HST Carbon Fiber cars and said he thought they were some of the best looking ones. I still think the quality of the finish was excellent. That was probably due to the clientele that HST was working with for that group of cars.