Some more questions about SPF Cobras

[mattpatt]

Still (and will be for quite a while, unfortunatley) thinking about buying a used SPF Mk3. Some additional questions:

1) At which chassis number did SP start shipping the latest soft top design?

2) At which chassis number did the standard 3.45 rear ratio start?

3) I've noticed that nearly all the used Mk3s for sale have carbs. VERY FEW have fuel injection (only the new Mk3R as near as I can tell). Is this because most guys just want something more "authentic"? Or, is there a technical challenge to putting an injected engine in? I seems to me that an injection system (serial port injection with throttle bottle control) would still look "kinda" like a carb setup but give all the advantages of FE. ?????

4) Wheel sizes: While the 17" and 18" wheels undoubtedly give better handling performance (is that true???) is there an increase in harshness using 40 or 50 profile tires on the street? I plan to only do street driving.

5) How often to people actually get burned on the side-pipes? I'm sure just once will remind anyone to be careful - but I'm thinking of passengers (especially my wife! who I hope will ride in it occasionally). I assume the optional "protectors" work well?

I'm sure I'll have many more questions but any help with these are appreciated.

Respectfully,

Matt