Why does every thread here devolve into a "Real" vs. "Replica" argument?

[REAL 1]

Originally Posted by Nedsel

Evan, I don't link the current Cobras to the originals because, apart from their appearance and their use of the Shelby name, they aren't connected. AC Cars did not build them and they are far from exact copies. You say they are from the same manufacturer, and I ask - do you really understand what the F you are talking about? It's the same in name only, with different players, different manufacturing methods, and a different corporate structure. Same manufacturer? Only a fool would argue that. But if the shoe fits ...

As for my referring to your car as a replica, you read the definitions on one page, but fail to comprehend the bigger picture on the other pages that specifically deal with the CSX 4xxx cars. Such as SAAC's note on page 707 that explained how Shelby would compete with the other replica manufacturers directly "by building and selling a Cobra replica of his own." Charitably, SAAC decided to label the new Shelby cars as something other than replicas simply to differentiate them from other recreations that were already referred to as replicas, since Shelby was building them. Note that they also state the 4000-series cars were "built to more or less original 427 Cobra S/C standards." Still want to insist they are connected?

And don't make me laugh by mistaking exactly who is "grinding his own personal axe to protect his turf." All of us know that refers to YOU.

Ned: Not connected? Really. Your clubs registry states SAI has continued in existence since 1968. That's a fact. Carroll was connected with the original Cobras. But for him they wouldn't exist. So a Ferrari today is not a Ferrari because Enzo is dead and the employees who made Ferrari's in the 50's and 60's no longer are around and manufacturing processes are different etc...? Really???? Ok. That makes sense. That would apply to any manufacturer that was around back then and is around today. Talking about fools yours is a fools argument. Hey, if the shoe fits.

Who the hell needs AC? AC made the chassis and bodies for the original Shelby Cobra. The major design changes and improvement that made the Cobra a Cobra came at the direction of SAI. AC was the fabricator for the most part. SAI owns the rights to the name and marks and it was their name and mark back then and now. SAI historically also did plenty of fabrication then and now.

But for value I'd rather a have a current production Shelby Cobra. Much better car.

Whether the current production Cobras are exact to original standards or close is irrelevant. You and your friends can wallow in that minutia all day long. It matters not a wit to the issue.

And you will also note that your Clubs Registry notes expressly the current production Cobras as "authentic" Cobras and identifies them as such in more than one location. Very charitable indeed. Thank you. I guess they "charitably" did that in 2004 and right through the Registry. You also noted it was Shelby who referred to them for legal reasons as Component Cobras not SAAC. But for federal regulations Carroll would have not used "component" either. Go ahead look silly and tell me differently.

All we need is Shelby American for the current production Cobras. Don't need your charity either. We have the facts. If the majority of SAAC board members are like you and want to ignore history and ongoing history just drop the Continuation series from the club and Registry.

If your club is going to change it's stance to humor your own personal animus and bias don't be surprised that when your club looks to track the Continuation series and obtain info for it's next Registry continuation owners tell your club to kiss their asses. It's also a good way to alienate a lot of club members. But hey if it makes Ned the curator personally happy and if that's more important to your club then you guys go right ahead.

Won't change the facts though.

Oh yeah. Almost forgot. I am grinding an axe. It's clear. No qualms admitting it. I am protecting the current production Cobras from being knocked and demeaned from guys with sour grapes and pompous asses who only want the original series to be the only authentic Cobra on the block. You grind your axe. I'll grind mine.

P.S. I'd be willing to bet my Continuation Cobra will likely be worth near what your COB is in a few years. Must really burn your derriere.

P.S. P.S. This response if for the rest of you guys too. Can't respond to each of you. Too many here on this thread. I believe I covered though. Have a great day.