Let's see...
There are some nice GTs out there that don't pretend to be anything other than GTs. They're well kept, look good and are fine examples of what GTs should be...
--then--
There are "garbage clones". These cars are poorly done. They include things like Cobra badging, 4 lug Cobra wheels, Cobra intake plates (on stock manifolds) and the list goes on. These examples are things that make their owners look like huge posers. You know... kinda like a hair band of the 80's that takes their wig off after each show.
Many examples of the Saleen clone as described above for the Cobra, can also be found. "Poserness" also applies but is even more apparent .
Then... there are the well done clones. Yes, they are still clones but much time and effort was spent in making them what they are. There are folks out there that can still distinguish these cars from the real thing (I do not claim to be one of these but I have spotted a well done fake a time or two). The thing with these cars is that even though they are not originally a Cobra or Saleen, they have to be admired for the attentioin to detail that went into making them what they are. Making a clone that is praiseworthy is a very difficult task and can require vast amounts of time in research and application. Often, the creator will either leave or make a tell-tale sign that this vehicle is a clone. The purpose here is not to try and fool anyone, but to re-create.
Poorly done cloning or haphazard badging is usually a sign of "I wanna be that", syndrome. I mean... if hanging a Saleen sign across the windshield of a GT looks good then putting one for a Lamborghini up there would be AWESOME! This ranks right up there with any other ricer that goes out ans steals Type R decals for their mom's hoduh because he's not got even two nickles to rub together for a real VTAK.
So to sum up my worthless soap box instruction...
Don't be a poser. Mods are great! They make the car yours and custom. If you're going to mod though... do custom mods. Stealing badging etc. from other models that are considered higher end versions of what you have is just sad.
Edit: Once again, my condolences for the damage to your car. It does sound like you had it coming though. I can't help but appreciate that you came right out and admitted that too.
