[Don_Lightfoot]

This is very interesting and I'll provide my "two pennies" worth which has really not changed in the 15 years or so I have been back in the hobby.

I have what most would consider a very rare car. There is no original documentation with it and the block is a "CE" unit. In addition, the transmission and the rear end are not original to the car either. I have been able to trace the history back to the second owner who passed away last year. I also have good confirmation from a reputable individual stating he knew of my car from day one and was able to provide to me the original selling dealer. However, there is no confirmation available as to what "the original drivetrain" might have been as they were probably scrubbed or broken during the early drag days of the car.

Now, would this information I have satisfy a proposed purchaser? I really can't say and don't care to be honest, that would be up to them obviously. I would never attempt to misrepresent the car in any way as my ethics would not allow me to do that. All I could do is provide the history I have, let the quality of the car speak for itself and go from there. Let's face it, there are people out there that want the original numbers in addition to documentation. There are also people out there that want a quality car that just happens to turn their crank. The latter example is why I bought the car five years ago. I don't lose any sleep over things I can't control like numbers and documantation - I just enjoy the car which is what the hobby means to me.

Having said all that, to answer your questions I will provide the following responses:

APPEAL - I don't think the fact my car does not have the numbers and documentation lessens the appeal one bit.

VALUE - Most definitely effected by the circumstances mentioned. However, I care more about "fun factor" than "value" as I am not what would be considered an investor, just a hobbyist.

Guess I rambled on a bit here, sorry about that.