I had to go back and find your question about front suspension. Quote "Decidedly I like the idea of having a visual engine, thus the question and 2), about coil over shocks. I have seen various pictures of both, the coils over look better in my opinion and I am wondering from a performance point of view what are the benefits of with, or without, this application?"

Coil Over shocks are used with Independant Front Suspension (IFS), some folks find IFS hideous on a fenderless ride. Others prefer the tune-ability and don't mind the look. Some others think of the old straight axle and buggy spring suspension as outdated and rough riding. These are the things you need to decide for yourself!

If you prefer a "traditional" (there, I used the "T" word!) old school look - go straight axle. If you like the IFS with coil overs, there you go! It's your car so your decision.