[Tony Ripepi]

Hello Max,

I've owned both.......I drove and sold an SPF and currently own CSX4264. They are different cars from the inside out and each has a close and vocal set of owners/fans/etc.

First pay close attention the comments above on the registration issues in your state.....all of the comments above are very valid and relevant. If you are here in California we ned to talk in specific about the details of registration.

The SPF and CSX have different chassis, body attachments, ride and handling characteristics. My SPF had a 460 with the Tremec 5-speed, the CSX has a 427SO with a 4-speed top loader but, they both fell into the Big block definition. Both cars when you were on the rode had the instant on torque that you would expect, the transmissions were different and the 5-speed on the highway was great with the engine turning at 2300- 2500 RPM and the 4-speed keeps it at 3000 - 3200 at cruise. I will keep the 4-speed for the sake of originality but you need to decide what you want.

Fit and finish in both cars are great but, there are differences in the bodies, interior and ride comfort. The SPF wins out for interior comfort and the Shelby gets points for overall ride and handling comfort. For the size of the car the SPF has a very wide turning radius and with the big block you want to change the standard 3:73 rear end gears to a lower ratio for real use of the lower gears from a standing start.

The Shelby, as expected has a body shape closer to the original CSX3xxx cars but beauty is in the eye of the beholder, you need to decide if this is important to you. And the value to you to own a Shelby vs. SPF. They are both replicas and you need to decide which you want to own.

Engines/transmission combination in cars that are built and ready to go and the quality, longevity and long term use are real isssues. If you are considering an existing car, have it surveyed by a trusted (BY YOU) third party, leak test the engine, in depth written appraisal that you pay for.

To really determine what you want take the time to drive both cars, decide on the engine/transmission combination that works for you and then the intrisic value of which replica meets your overall desires.....this is a recreational toy, most of us only drive them weekends and to fun stuff with our significant others.

Back to your original question ------ Drive them both and decide for yourself what is important to you ---- there will always be a deal out there for an existing car. Write down what is important to you and let that be your guide. If you are looking at fibreglass cars the pricing will close but and Aluminum CSX will be a lot more expensive. This time of year is a buyers market and you have leverage ----- use it the 15k delta between them can be made a smaller number.

Have fun, Don't make it a garage queen and enjoy the driving ----- either car will be a joy to have in the garage.

Best Regards,

Tony R.