We're an odd group. generally, if you ask advice of one of us, the answer you'll usually get is to buy the same make car that the person you're asking happens to own. Why this is I'll never understand.
That being said, you'd probably get more accurate info if you asked two questions:
Why did you buy the make car you own, and if you couldn't buy that car which would you buy and why?
Don't let anyone tell you that "I own Brand "X" and you should too."
Good luck, the search is as much fun as owning it. ENTDOC is right about looking for a used car. Decide what you want, and look for a good used one, there's lots of them out there, and good buys to be had. Do your research, look into each and every brand and take your time making your decision, you'll live with it for a long time.
To me the three biggest differences are level of accuracy, type of rear suspension, and engine type.
More accurate cars (at least as body look goes) are known to be (In no particular order, and not by any means a complete list) Shelby, Kirkham, ERA, Contemporary, Unique, etc.
IRS vs. Solid rear: All the above have IRS, GENERALLY the more expensive cars are IRS. The argument rages about this, personally I like IRS, you may not. Look carefully into the pros and cons of eack. Again, IN GENERAL, IRS handles better, solid is stronger for things like drag racing. Most if your more expensive and accurate cars have IRS.
Big block vs. small block - If you want to liven up a Cobra gathering, just ask which is better, step back, open a cold beer and watch the fireworks begin!
Really, it's up to you. Again, don't let anyone tell you that one s better than the other - you decide what you want. Big block FE's are more expensive, and in 427 type cars more accurate, After that, it's up to you.
Good luck and enjoy the ride.... If you want email me and I'll send you my phone number, we'll talk. I have a Contemporary, I won't even try to sell you on one!
Doug