Thanks Chris, I appreciate your comments. I was glad to read that you recognize an overall approach, it's one of the most important aspects of this project for me. It influences just about every decision I make.
My main goal with this car is to keep the basic format of the original build but to maximize its potential with thoughtful parts choices and better execution. How's that for a mission statement?
Bottom line though is that it's rewarding to know that there is interest in what I'm doing!