ERA by a repeat offender

[Jim Holden]

Folks:

Just so the record is clear:

In response to an off line question as to whether or not I really own 5 ERAs I responded:

Actually, I only have one at a time (although I still have the FIA as my next GT is going together).

More substantively, I enjoy planning, scrounging for parts and building these cars. While I would consider an original original, Shelby, AC, Ford, Cobra constructed within a particular time frame in the 60's (and to me, all of those are absolutely necessary and critical components of originality), I have more enjoyment out of this process. I for one view any of these cars, original or replica, as just so much processed iron ore, aluminum and fiberglass. I see absolutely no point in spending an extra (fill in the blank) $___________ for that which can not be seen nor touched. To me that is a bit of; "The Emperor has no clothes." And for all of it, if I roll one of these into a ball, I can call up Peter and get another; I have not destroyed some irreplaceable original. I would also note that I do not do business with shoddy, unethical businesses regardless of how much I may want what they offer. I have been more than satisfied with my dealings with ERA over the years. No one is perfect, but I believe that they are conscientious folks, in business to make a living for sure, but truly dedicated to producing a good, safe (have you ever really looked at the side impact protection in an original Cobra) product.

Another thing that I would add is that the wonderful thing about doing replicas is that there is room to do whatever "floats your boat". To me the creative, assembly is the thing. I grow bored with the finished car. To others, driving is the thing and they could care less or don't want to spend the time and energy to put the cars together. And finally, if you deviate from originality, who cares?

I've done the restoration thing on a couple of old Porsches and Mustangs. Dirty business that. I am also in the process (with some partners) of restoring an original GT40. Talk about a long and expensive process... and in the end we'll have so much in that we'd be out of our minds to try and drive it.

J