olddog, I have to agree with you, to some degree. The demographics of Cobra ownership have steadily been moving away from 'period correct' for some years now. While a few, hardcore, retain that thinking our voices are growing ever fainter. The demographics began to change in a marked way about the same time BDR came on the scene. New, modern, better, CHEAPER became the new watch words, the Walmartization of the replica industry. Get it now, get it cheaper, just add 'water' (a motor).
Not all side oilers are created equal, a 'real' date coded 1965 block is more desirable for 'period correct' than a later model block, for instance. In keeping with the new spirit of things, however, a 1968 or later block maybe actually be preferred by some (myself included) because you can run hydraulic lifters (as in hyd roller) if you chose to do so. So a later block gives you more flexibility while retaining the flavor of a 'real' side oiler. Of course, 'real men' run a flat tappet anyway...
SOME replicas are better suited for 'period correct' than others. Putting a date coded 1965 side oiler in some 'kit's' would be a rather futile undertaking as far as resale goes. It would be right at home in a nicely prepared Kirkham, on the other hand.
In my case I bought my ERA specifically because it had a side oiler, while an alloy KC or Shelby is interesting, I would NOT have bought the car with either of those engines under the hood. I have a friend who bought an older Hi Tech for the same reason, specifically because it had a side oiler. There are some of us left who still think that way...
