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Old 11-09-2010, 08:39 AM
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Jim Holden Jim Holden is offline
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Join Date: Nov 1999
Location: White Plains,, NY
Cobra Make, Engine: ERA140, ERA 267, ERA GT2038, ERA FIA 2045, ERAGT2077 ERA2893000EXP
Posts: 1,117
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"Less is more."

To put the quote into context, you need to understand that I have, over the course of the past twenty five years, built two ERA427SC (with 428cj motors), an ERAFIA and now the ERA289. Each has been built with a certain vision in mind. The first big block car was very "streetable" with leather interior, heater and a single four barrel Holley carb. The second big block was built with Webers and no heater. It was less streetable, but could definitely blow the wax out of your ears.

In building the ERAFIA, it was the least "streetable" of all; race rubber, no heater, Webers and no windshield. The motor was a stroker Dart block 331 (or so) with zero balance forged crank, etc. The car is a blast, but rather tiring to drive over any distance.

In building the ERA289, I wanted a car that was "180 degrees out" from the ERAFIA (which I still own). A mild 302, Holley carb, heater, top, side curtains, full interior all make it a vehicle that you can do reasonably long hours in and not be beaten to death. The light motor, relatively narrow 215 profile tires and 16" steering make the steering light and manageable. It is a car my wife loves and has in fact appropriated it for her own.

Admittedly, I have the option of going down to the shed and choosing what sort of ride I would like to have on any given day; mild or wild... not a bad place to be.



Jim

Last edited by Jim Holden; 11-09-2010 at 08:44 AM..
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