Both are VERY nice cars, but I think the ERA is closer to the original in appearance.
The SPF has a few details that are not quite as original:
- The section of the body underneath the radiator opening and above the
oil cooler opening has a sharply concave curve -- this panel (from top to bottom) is flatter on the originals and on the ERA. Also, the curve of the body as it wraps into the mouth is sharper (tighter radius) on the SPF than ERA or original
- The crease where the front fender meets the flare is more pronounced, especially toward the front of the car at the bottom of the curve ahead of the wheel
- The vents on the front fenders behind the wheels are not as original -- look at the two cars for the differences (I can't describe it well)
- Under the hood, ERA replicates the appearance of the original's front suspension mounting structure, because it is visible when the hood is open
- SPF hangs the pedals from above -- ERA pedals are hinged on the floor, as original
- The inboard rollbar tube of the SPF is visible behind the seat ahead of the bulkhead, but the outboard tube is not -- both tubes are visible on the ERA, as original. (As far as I know, SPF, ERA, and of course Kirkham and Shelby are the ONLY manufacturers that don't incorrectly hide both of the roll bar tubes behind the bulkhead)
- The angle of the rollbar support tube (the one that extends rearward through the rear panel) is too vertical on the SPF, though better than most others. The ERA rollbar does this right.
- The windshield wipers on the SPF park to the left, while the ERA's park to the right. I've been told that the originals came both ways, but personally I've only seen originals with wipers that park on the right.
I don't mean to sound as though I'm picking on the SPF -- it's a fabulous car, and more "accurate" than almost any other glass replica. But to answer Ray's question, the ERA is just that bit more true to the original in appearance. I can identify an SPF at a considerable distance. I have to get very close to an ERA to determine whether it's an original or a replica.
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