Welcom Jdog,
Congratulations on the ne Shelby. YES, it will be a real Shelby Cobra, just not an original. As for the small block, big block issue I think that is something that you have do determine yourself. How are you going to drive the car or are you just going to park it and look at it. If you decide to go small block, save the big block as it will add value if you ever decide to sell the car. As for racing or waxing, which do you like best. Maybe just driving it and showing it at shows would work for you. The car is for fun and enjoyment and you are going to have that no matter what you do. As for color, whatever you like unless you are obsessed with trying to say as near the originals as possible. As for leaving it unpainted aluminum, Turk can clu you in on that.
Ron
