I was in a conundrum of sorts as well. When I started my build I learned in the concourse restoration direction. I used factory iron heads and about the only major deviation was headers. I grew tired of every Shelby I saw with matte black everything. I also wasn't overly enthralled with the lack-luster 355 HP 428. I wound up going with a mix. While maintaining factory components I went with a lot of plating, got away from the iron heads and went aluminum. I restored things like the C7ZX intake and many of the original parts. What got the shine was the engine itself. The wiring is all exact reproductions with all the OE part number tags. The interior and the trunk were done as well. I didn't like "dynamite sticks" I hated the way the brake lights sequenced when you stepped on the brakes.
I wound up wiring factory sequentials in. I like tasteful and shine. The old adage: If it don't go, chrome it doesn't fit the car. I showed the vehicle at two car shows on the same day week before last. I took a best of the show at one and my class at one and best of class in the second. This is the first time I have ever taken the vehicle to a show. I have no intention of drag racing the car. However, I do like to run it a bit on occasion. I am still going easy on it being it has only a few hundred miles on it.
Because I actually drive my vehicle there were a few safety considerations made. Upgraded pads, shocks, sway bars and lowered control arms, total control springs and larger rims so I could utilize modern tires. The original 15 X 7 ten spokes leave a lot to be desired in tire choices. I went with the 10 spoke 17 X 7 and 17 X 8 and they are tucked even with the 245 45 17 and 265 45 17 rears.
Even the period correct Traction masters are plated.
All can be changed back and there is no damage done to the vehicle to that would make the return to original too difficult.
