[RedBarchetta]

Long time, part-time lurker, but now I've decided to really start doing some research for "the one". All inputs are valued and I appreciate them!

I'm 6'3", so I have to fit in whatever I buy! I've had my eye on the SPF for sometime, as I've decided to involve myself far less in the actual build (I consider myself an excellent shade tree mechanic, but time constraints and family quality time will limit my "build time" considerably).

The budget will be somewhat flexible, but I'm trying to keep a $50K cap on the whole thing. Power will be small block oriented with a target of 450HP (for ease of maintenance, power/weight ratio, etc.), but it doesn't necessarily have to be a Ford (okay, I'm sure I've made friends with that statement!). Sorry, I was schooled on Chevys, but I'm willing to learn to work on Fords, too (if necessary). Looking at a Tremec 5 or 6 speed for a tranny, but not sure which way to go for the rearend (Corvette/Jag IRS or solid)? I could handle a TKL option and drop the drivetrain in myself, but if I have wiggle room on the cap, I might go full turn key.

I've waivered for a while on buying new vs. used. After lots of thought, I've decided that potentially buying someone else's problem might not be worth the expense. If this is the one dream car that I've longed to own (and can afford), I might as well go the distance and buy a new one.

One question I do have is regarding registration in California. I really don't want to hassle with "The Man" during the smog certification/ritual. I'd just as well pay more up front for a '65 registration, if you know what I mean.

As my username implies, the Cobra will be red w/white stripes. Oh yeah, will probably want to run 17"s and low profile rubber, though my budget could limit me there.

Again, I really could use some inputs as to whether the budget is realistic and what else besides SPF is something I should really look at (i.e. E-M, ERA, etc.).

And FWIW, my current daily driver is a '93 Corvette (LT1 - 6 speed coupe). THANKS!

-Deano