JohnnyPhysix

Is this slot still available? Was planning a Birkin so have a few questions if I am going to pivot. Drop be a PM.

Thanks Tom. I realized rather quickly after opening this can of worms that I need to reconnect with you. We did correspond last year when this was just a twinkle in my eye, and thought still waiting for other things around here to settle down, it seems that I do have more questions that you can help with.

Thanks for the support and responses! I actually reached out to Tom via email last year and was very responsive. From the lack of mention of TMW, I am guessing they may be a no-go? I've been curious: does all Birkin imports actually go through BirkinDirect? Another thing for those who've gone this route, any idea how much I'll need to budget for above and beyond the kit such as engine, brakes, etc? I know I can probably go crazy with modifications, but rather get up and running first and not sticker-shock the wife too much.

I've been lurking here for awhile and researching even longer. I use to own a Spitfire and miss tinkering with cars. I also live in Pittsburgh and the wife an I always participate in the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix. We also just go places just for drive. With all that being said I want to get something to build and have fun driving and having always admired the 7's, I think I decided on building a Duratec 2.0 Birkin SS3 unless anyone has any arguments. Here's my thoughts: Birkin because it still looks like the original (that throws out Stalkers, Westfields, etc). Also the Lotus coral may still let me in with them for the Grand Prix Birkin because it is priced like the original (I'd love a Caterham, but just can't justify the price) I want a kit (can't seem to verify if any US Caterham dealers actually sell kits anymore) Don't need the wide version because I am only #135 at 5'8 and my wife is even smaller. I've heard choosing seat may be a different matter for a later time. The Duratec, well just because. And I guess my dad use to work for the engine plant. Assuming I am not crazy and in good company I am hoping to get some updated opinions. I did see a post back in 2012 (7192-New-member-want-to-build-a-Birkin-any-advise) and some build logs, but curious if any sediments changed. One of the specific things on my mind now is US distributors. It seems we have two now (BirkinDirect-USA or TexasMotorWorks or is there a third distributor)? Any opinions / recommendations? I also imagine they both could source all the other parts too? Or should I just go to FordParts for the engine? Not sure on the diff and transmission. The other thing nagging is the big unknown. Should I be expecting a big surprise half way through the build like so weird 50% kit car tax or some oversea's shipping fee. I know its possible, most of you are proof, and not to worried about the mechanics, just the other stuff (if there really is any other stuff). Hopefully I am fretting about nothing but getting to a point in the planning where I want to poll the community.