In terms of a potential purchase for me, I would be making my choice between an SPF and new CAV, not a "Series 100." Would anyone be able to speak to the differences in fit and finish as well as suspension and brakes between the new CAV GT's and the SPF?
Again, I'm weighing the positives and negatives, and the steel versus fiberglass roof is of great importance as well. When opening and closing various sections of the car (e.g., clamshell, doors, bonnet, etc.), which car feels more solid? If the CAV GT weighs more, and has a simpler design, it may be the leader in this category.
Rod,
From what you want in a GT40, or a CAV, or one of the other copies, you may want to buy a Ford GT. Sure it cost more, but it doesn't leak in the rain, has way more to offer in creature comforts, ABS brakes, newer steering/suspension package, and a tamed exhaust system. I see your from California so you wouldn't have to put with getting past the CARB and obtaining a tag to drive one of the GT40-P-xxxx, or CAV.
I don't remember reading or hearing reports of the first GT40s from their drivers about getting wet....it is a race car. The car I have is a continuation of that race car. The 427 FE in that car is loud and produces large amounts heat. It handles like a race car that was adapted for the roads or track. I had no misconceptions of what it was when I bought the car. My wife will ride in the car. (I cheat and use A/C).
My roof is made of steel, as were the first cars. The ZF has never been a transmission to 'speed shift'...you do that often and you'll be repairing something expensive (ie Pantera). If I have any problem I call and get an answer
or SPF will send a truck if needed. Great support and I support the dealer. The group of owners I know are car guys who car turn a wrench or appreciated the work of the people who know race cars. Oh get a Gurney bubble if you plan to track the car...the helmet hits the inside roof if you don't.
I guess it depends on what you want to do with the car--cruise up the Pacific coast highway, Blue Ridge Parkway, or blast down the track at VIR, Charlotte, Nurburgring, or your local road track. Then buy what your dreaming about...we never really own its soul but for a fleeting moment before the car passes to the next dreamer.
I let people drive my cars...but the GT40 is different. You can hit 113 going 2- to 3rd why merging. The rear view isn't. I go with them to make sure the big grin doesn't cause them to make a mistake. If your in this end of the country, call me and we will go for a drive. All of my cars leave people smiling.
Good luck making you choice