[Cashburn]

You need to have a group of them in front of you before making any decisions. The books don't convey how the car is going to fit you or look in person. As the others are suggesting, seek out a regional event of Cobras and get there to see the differences first hand.

If you are looking at used "kits" you really need to check them out in person, there is so much variation between them. If you are looking at used rolling chassis type cars (BDR, SPF, ???) then you simply research the build number and can determine from there if things are up to spec.

I would have to guess the best event to see the most variety would be the London Cobra Show in Ohio ... you could make decisions a lot easier by spending the weekend there.