[Rickd]

Ghost. Take a look at the ERA web site. They have what I believe is the strongest chassis in the business, great glass work, engineering detail unsurpassed by anyone building a glass bodied car (for aluminum - see Kirkham Motorsports = truly special). Their 289 FIA body is a visually exact replica of CSX2345 - the only one of the 5 original FIA factory race cars that was not wrecked (currently in the Shelby museum in Boulder, Colorado). The visual detail of their engine compartment, cockpit, and trunk are exact replicas of the original 289, right down to having the gas tank over the rear suspension and the battery in a compartment in the right rear wheel well. If you want a 427 SC body, they have a completely different chassis (many builders use the same one for all cars), and again, it is visually an exact replica of the original, with gas tank under the wheel well, and filler cap on the fender. They are in New Britain, Ct., and you can visit any time. They also build an incredible GT 40 replica. I had another builder's 289 FIA first, then had a chance to drive an ERA, sold mine and had an ERA FIA built. You can buy any stage of build from turnkey car, painted roller to complete yourself, or a complete do-yourself kit. Most ERA buyers who build their own, have the body painted and bonded to the chassis. ERA also builds a custom rear suspension that is a pure work of art: aluminum frame with Jag rear end (IRS), outboard over sized racing brakes, and posi-traction is standard. The ERA "street seats" are works of art as well. As part of the educational / research process, you should definitely plan a visit to ERA in New Britain, Ct., and speak with Peter (owner / GM), and Bob (chief engineer), also with Doug (head builder - master mechanic), and visit their chassis and glass shop, as well as the finished assembly shop next door. They build about 55 - 60 cars a year. All custom order - no spec builds. Feel free to contact me via a PM if you want to exchange phone numbers to discuss details of their cars or ask any questions at all.