RedCSX: No stripes!? C'Mon!!! ;-)
Actually, I originally wanted a solid colored car as well (BLACK / no stripes!) but after seeing the paint job on the SPF's with stripes (you can't even feel them, it's so smooth) I changed my mind. I will tell you, however, that SPF doesn't give you a credit for not getting stripes.
Why do I need a top? I live in Chicago (not sunny California). No, I wouldn't drive the car in the winter, but spring & fall days can change in a heart beat (especially as the sun starts to go down - COLD!!). They also don't do a very good job of predicting the weather around here (do they anywhere?). No, I wouldn't take the car out in the rain, but I could get caught in a shower while already being out. Here in the Windy City, we like to say: If you don't like the weather, wait a minute........It'll change!
Oil Cooler system is now standard? When did this change?? I just got my price sheet from Shelby in the mail a couple days ago!? Well, that's a plus if it's standard! (plus 975.00 that is!).
Heater: I already explained why I need that.
Defroster: Ditto
Mirror: .....C'Mon, Shelby has to charge you 75.00 bucks for a mirror!? Maybe they would throw that in for me.......
You wouldn't want a 5-speed for the track? I doubt you would have a problem with the TKOII with a 427 or 428. Just ask the guys with 500+ci BB SPF's w/ 600lbs tq and a TKOII.
Hal already mentioned quite a few of the things SPF's come "standard" with earlier (pg. 13 I think). I mentioned a couple of the upgrades they added this year.
Bottom line is, I think they are BOTH good "deals". I think it will depend on the buyer and what he wants to do with the car, that will be the deciding factor. People that want to show the car, or just want to build a car that will look more like a original will probably choose the CSX (or ERA). Especially if they want to go with an FE. People that prefer a SB stroker, or go with a massive BB stroker with gobs of HP and TQ, and want to race - or drive their cars "hard" will probably go with the SPF. Not saying you couldn't do "racing" or "shows" with either car.........but each one has it's advantages in each category (IMHO).