Thanks all, for some well worded response.
I have not been interested in building a car for more than the past few years (sailing was my life) so I am not familiar with the early versions of the FFR cars. When I started looking into building something they had just released the Mark III version of the roadster and it looked very well done.
I too am not all that keen on the frame. Better than original I am sure, but it could be so MUCH better, but then it would not look original. That appeals to some I know.
The single donor idea is/was very good even though it did force many compromises in dimensions, ride, and handling. It did allow many to build a car that looks good and is fun to drive though.
Good point made, autocross is not life!
For me, neither is 1/4 mile time/speed. (of course not, in a Miata????)
I did not mean to imply that everyone who builds a car for less money is smarter.
But the person who DOES build a superior car for less money is much smarter in my book.
But that can be any replica kit.
I do agree that a really good looking car costs time and money and the better the kit you start with, the easier it is to end up with something to be proud of.
A
Kirkham is the best start I believe
I am glad that others are aware of the improvements FFR has made in their offerings and I applaud their goal to continue to make it affordable so that more can enjoy building one. I really like the new Mk4 body shape too. Although as I look at hundreds of original cobra photos, there seems to be quite a lot of variation even among the same model. Which is understandable considering they were all hand formed and most have been repaired several times which is likely to change the looks somewhat.
Thanks again for the input everyone