588R big block

[Buzz]

Originally Posted by Joe's Garage

Just using the OP's example of a Roush 588, personally I think Buzz has it right regarding a BDR, a Kirkham would likely be a different story.

Absolutely. A true period correct build with the intention of replicating an original Cobra would mean aluminium bodywork, authentic chassis and suspension, interior, switches, etc. etc., and of course, the correct drivetrain.

Once you have a fibreglass body, altered wheelbase or shape, rectangular tube chassis, different suspension, dual roll bars, TKO transmission, modern brakes, EFI, etc. etc., then it's a custom build and from there it's just pointless to pontificate about the "correctness, authenticity or originality" of putting a Ford FE engine under the hood. If you do so because you love FE's and that's what you want it's all good - but it won't make your customized build "more of a Cobra" than the next guy's with a stroked Windsor, a 385 series or a Coyote.