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Old 12-30-2014, 09:29 AM
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patrickt patrickt is offline
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Cobra Make, Engine: ERA #732, 428FE (447 CID), TKO600, Solid Flat Tappet Cam, Tons of Aluminum
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Mark IV View Post
On a Superformance MK III ("427 Cobra") there are NO rebuilt or used parts or assemblies supplied from the factory. Now an ERA can be done with used or reman parts depending on the builder however you or ERA can use new pieces for most of the requirements (it may be tough to get a brand new Jag differential, I don't know) needed.

Now I have great respect to ERA and Peter is a really good guy who I always look forward to seeing at events, however the SPF and ERA really are pointed at different markets although there is occasional overlap. Yes, the SPF is targeted to the Windsor market however about 20% by my accounting are FEs. The factory supplies FE install parts, headers, etc. when specified.

The business model of SPF is different from ERA, we have dealers and inventory. ERA is pretty much build to order for rollers or turnkeys so the wait is longer. Right now we can do a MK III chassis custom order in about 120 days delivered.

In my experience most issues are minor on a factory build. And keep in mind these cars are basically from the "age of iron" so basic tools will resolve most problems other than powertrain or installer errors.

You will not go wrong with either, you are just looking a different answers to the question.
I can't disagree with anything in this post. And, FWIW, it's taken me eight years, after having ERA build me a custom 427 to my exact specs, to get it to the point where I would now say it's 99.9% perfect. Remember, these are all hand built cars, and the "bug work out" time is going to be present on all hand built cars. Earlier this year, I drove by a beautiful new Pagani Zonda that had broken down by the side of the road. There is a little chance that most of us could do any "road side fix-ups" on that little gem. Funny, on that same stretch of road (which is not a place to drive fast or anything), I have seen a broken down Ferrari and Lamborghini (that's over 40 years) -- both looked brand new. Yes, they all have their temperamental moments, but that can add some spice to the mix, too, if you're so inclined.
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