Well you see Paulo that is exactly the point. What is and what isn't a 'replica'.
Some see SPF as 'replica' whilst owners (naturally) see them as 'continuation' and thus no replica.
If Italian FIA or equivalent allow them (SPF) to race in Historic I think that is fantastic as long as they race with 'period' pieces - Roush 427, in my opinion is not acceptable for this just because they are the same CI. Personally, if your Italian friend had chosen a MKI, then he would have had many more choices in the engine department - all of them with proven reliability, kinder to gearboxes, and faster on many tracks.... 255, 289, 302, 305 (?) 351 and others I'm sure.
Flame on!
PS The Pit Popsie Picture that Paulo Posted (PPPPPPPP - great aliteration)
can be seen most nights at the Pepenero Topless Bar in Riccione, one of my favourite places near Rimini and also home to the fabulous El Paradiso nightclub...
PPS Ron, yes: no cage, no safety cell - mad +1