Bill,
Lots of great advice here and you can’t go wrong no matter which one you choose.
For me, I have always gravitated towards the 289 cars. From the slab side street cars, to the comp cars to the FIAs. The 289 with it’s balance of handling & performance with those classic lines is a Cobra to me. When I started my ERA FIA project, the ERA slab side was not yet available, so I did a ’street’ version of an FIA.
It’s interesting that about 70% of the 60’s originals were 289 cars, yet the vast majority of the continuation / replica / tribute Cobras are 427s. It’s probably the lust for more power that tips the scale towards the 427s and they are indeed very impressive.
Like the guys said, you need to decide for yourself, but either way you are in good company. Welcome to the club and best of luck with your project!
tkb