I will be building a Cobra replica, and have decided to power it with a SBF. Specifically, a 331 based on a FRP Boss 302 block; AFR 185 heads; and Weber 48 IDAs up top. I'm not to the point of specific cam selection yet, but was pondering solid v. hydraulic, and am really leaning towards the mechanical lifters. I realize this will necessitate periodic valvetrain adjustment, but since the engine is not destined for a daily driver, that part is ok.

Any thoughts on the choice on solid?

 

Solid lifters will make more noise than hydraulics but I would consider that part of the game.
The original Cobras with 271HP 289's all had solid lifters as did many of the early muscle cars of the '50's-'60's.
They really aren't a problem at all, they will need to be checked once in a while but not really adjusted unless something is wrong with the valvetrain..........

 

I have COMP Cams solid lifters in my Windsor swap. It's a tight lash solid roller cam from Ed Curtis at Flowtech Induction, and it doesn't require frequent valve adjustments like some solid rollers do.

 

I use a very small nearly antique solid roller in my bracket car.
Seems like the game is more of a checking thing than an adjustment thing......