Quote Originally Posted by davehanman View Post
Rubydagard says "welcome to the world of Strati'. Whether you have made the correct choice, or not, only time will tell.

But with Hawk being in business for over thirty years and producing over 600 Strati' sent world-wide, manufacturing spare parts for the likes of Perez and Waldegard, it will be interesting to see how the values of LB on the used market compared to Hawk products will fare over the next few years. There have been many competitors and copiers of the Hawk product - all of whom have failed. Gerry Hawkeridge has worldwide recognition as a leading expert in automotive engineering as well as a dedicated passion for both the Stratos and the Cobra cars. As one of the first customers of Hawk of nearly 30 years, all i can say is that Gerry makes the most authentic and accurate replica on the planet - FULL STOP. With this reputation, i am happy to say that i have entrusted him, and his team with the restoration of my most treasured possession (apart from my wife). Hawk cars are currently helping to restore the HOLY GRAIL. If you don't understand what i mean by the holy grail - it's the most famous, most fantastic Stratos in the world.
Gerry's knowledge is second only to Mike Parkes.
.... if only the best will do, there is no choice. I have owned an original Hawk Stratos for the best part of 30 years, and it is so accurate and true to the original, it's unbelievable. During the restoration of the Holy grail, we were held up by a lack of original parts. I was able to raid Gerry's tea chest of parts and everything fitted.

Signed, Rubeydegard
I detect you may be a firm believer in the Hawk car then :-)

Building a car is always going to be a matter of personal choice and preference. LB may be a young company but it's product seems to better suits my needs.

As much as I am a fan of the Strato's shape, I have no desire to create a perfect facsimile of the original car. For me, I want the option of creating a more modern homage as that is what appeals to me. I have no particular interest in second hand values and I would be happy if I could enjoy a few decades of ownership.

For me a thoroughly modern and robust chassis, less reliance on used and ever harder to source parts, bespoke parts, good pedal layout and cabin room are all positives. I might even consider fitting a digital dashboard and machined aluminium switches along with TVR style electronic door opening. A/C is a must for me as is a built in Sat Nav and a sound system (I might not be able to hear it but will be happy in the knowledge that I have it!!!!). Sacrilege to some, but I'm building the car for me to make me happy.

I am well aware of Gerry's reputation and the originality of the Hawk, but there in lies my problem to a degree. I think I would simply feel obligated to build a faithful replica with the Hawk rather than following my heart and feeling comfortable that I can with the LB.

Regards

Hugo