Steve, I am a AACA member with a recent Senior Award 58 Ford Sunliner. I received my Junior 1st in Hershey in 08 and my Senior Award in Gettyburg last month. it is a Torch Red. 332 cu in with the Fordomatic trans. I will be entering it in the Grand Nationals in 2010 in New Bern, NC. If I can be of help with your friend who is considering a die cast version let me know. Regards, Andy Barcellona