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

[REAL 1]

Originally Posted by Tommy

"-The "common guy's" "understanding" of what he considers to be a "real" Shelby Cobra is has no bearing in fact or reality on what is or isn't a real Cobra except of course as to that particular individual and what HE chooses to accept in his own mind as one. " - Real1

Like President Clinton's, "It depends on what the definition of 'is' is," this logic may pass the legal test, but it doesn't pass the common sense test. When a clueless stranger asks me if my car is real, I strongly believe he is asking if it is a multi-million dollar car from the 60s, not is it a rebadged, slightly modified Kirkham? Unless either of us takes the time to ask what he really means, we are each free to interpret the question however we like.

"-SAAC 4th Edition of World Registry carries that statement position forward in 2008/9 and further explains common misuse of term "replica" as defined by Websters. SAAC acknowledges the widespread misuse and incorrect meaning now commonly used but says can't put the "toothpaste back in the tube". Point being non Shelbys are not "replicas" but merely cars that look like Cobras but really not. A "bootleg" to use a euphemism. SAAC notes that technically only the continuation Cobras are "replicas" i.e. true replicas as defined by Websters, i.e. an item or work reissued by the original artist or maker. " - Real1

I'll agree to start calling my car a "bootleg knockoff" if you'll agree to start calling your car a "replica." Deal?

What the "common guy" with little or no real understanding thinks or doesn't think about the current production Cobras is irrelevant to the actual facts that exist and SAAC's position which is my position and the overwhelming majority of current production Cobra owners I have conversed with both in person and email over the past 15 years. Many many more current production owners than bother to participate on this cite due to the fact t this cite is seen as very biased against the current production Cobras and constantly demean them. Most if not all of this "knocking" coming from not surprisingly those that don't own Shelbys.

In light of the commonly intended meaning of the word "replica" as correctly laid out by the Registry which does not comport with the correct Websters definition of the word, no. I'm not stepping into that trap. Thanks for the invitation anyway though. I'll just stick with SAAC's position.

I'd prefer to have the current production Cobras acknowledged as non original genuine Cobras or authentic Shelby Cobras and those cars not fitting the "Cobra" definition set forth by SAAC as "replica Cobras".