Looking for Authenticity How far to go?

[LMH]

Originally Posted by RodKnock

A “Cobra guy” is a “dying breed.”

I consider myself a “Cobra guy” and could have built an accurate replica. I could have spent another $25,000 (a pure WAG) making my Kirkham accurate, but: a) the ROI would have been 10 cents on the dollar, if that, b) 1 (“you” the builder) out of 1,000,000 could actually notice any difference and c) no replica (anything built after 1967) will ever be an original.

However, if “you” the builder derive fun from those tiny details, then more power to you. But I’ll need to remind “you” the builder, if you’re building your authentic replica from fiberglass, then “you” the builder missed the most basic and essential detail of building an accurate replica.

Well you've almost got it! If you think the "A Cobra Guy" is a dying breed, you haven't spent enough time around original cars/owners. (yes, I know you're referring to originalist replica owners though)

Totally disagree with you about aluminum bodies vs fiberglass. An original car having an aluminum body is NOT the essential detail that makes it original and a replica using an aluminum body is the same way. The essential detail (visually) on a replica would be it's shape, not the material it's made of. Besides, no originalist would ever polish a body of aluminum. Always paint and in original colors. On my car, I haven't decided which way to go, aluminum or fiberglass. For aluminum, it somewhat depends on who makes it and the buck they have to make it on. Chassis is the same either way. But the point is that the body material isn't THE main aspect of a replica as doesn't change the experience of what it's like to drive an original car. It's the chassis, suspension, steering, brakes, etc.

The research on how the cars were made has been the best part of it all though! The tiniest details of every aspect of original cars IS the hobby and I hope goes on and on! (thank you Dan!)

Larry