Information overload

[fzabski]

I am looking for the experts opinion on my scenario understanding that I am getting opinions here and I ultimately have to make my final choice. Any help or opinions are openly welcome.

I have wanted a Shelby Cobra 427 for a long time. Realistically I am about 1-2 years away from swinging the entire deal. My goal is to buy a car every five years. I have a love affair with automobiles. I currently have a fully restored 1973 French Blue TR 6 and a 2001 Porsche Boxster S. I love both cars.

About 2.5 years ago I visited the ERA facility in New Britian. I live in CT so it wasn't that far. I was and still am blown away. I was breathless when I walked out. I have done alot of research, visited websites, bought the Complete Guide to Cobra Replica's, etc. and hands down ERA is the place for a fiberglass non Shelby Cobra 427 Kit car.

If I was to buy a non Shleby fiberglass car there is no question in my mind it will be an ERA for many reasons, quality, loaction, expertise, etc. Realistically I don't think I could ever afford a real Shelby Cobra 427. Even if I could I don't think I could fork out 250k + just on principal for a car.

I understand that these cars are a passion not an investment but I have to look at this purchase as a serious matter.

I know Shelby is producing aluminum and fiberglass bodied car, both at a premium. I have read that Shelby and most "real" Cobra owns look down on anything non-original. Personally I have a real issue with Shelby but his cars are the real deal and no one can't debate that.

These are my concerns in general abouting buying a Cobra. They are in no particular order.

Potential Cobra choices and approximate cost:
ERA 60 k +/-
Shelby Fiberglass 60-80K +/-
Kirkham Aluminum 100k +/-

Are these numbers correct?

My issue with a kit car in general is the it is a kit car. I could buy a new "Shelby" Cobra pay a lot more but I understand I am only buying his name. Is it worth? Do you think there will ever be an appreciation in Shelby's second generation Cobra's as with the originals?

What about the Kirkham car. It's fabulous from what I see and as close the the original as I have ever seen. Granted you pay for it.

Should I start buying "parts" such as the engine, tranny, wheels. tires, etc or just hold off until I get the car?

I would like your commentary on the above statements. Nothing will hurt my feelings as I am looking for the experts opinion.