I would recommend you put an Optima in an original case (or a reproduction case). I can give you instructions as to how to do that if you drop me an email. I think C & G sells the repro cases. I much prefer an original if you can locate one.
I would have a hard time paying $150.00 for a battery because the word ford is on the side of the battery.How many people are going to get under a 35 to look at the side of your battery. how much do you think it cost to make the ford battery on the same production line as a $35.00 battery.Granted there is not a strong demand for a 2L group battery but the prices for repro parts is out of hand.
Roy, as Don has said, Vintage Battery sells the exact replica of the lead acid battery, if you wish to stay strictly authentic. I bought mine at one of the car shows for $100.00 and carried it out myself. Tom
Tip for early ford owners who would spend $150.00 for ford script battery.Go to napa store and buy $35.00 battery.Take the $115.00 you saved ,fill the old ford with gas.Take your wife or girl friend out to eat at a restaurant she likes. Buy her any thing she likes plus a couple of drinks.Go home and spend some time parking with her in the driveway,rumble seat is best if you have one. Resulting fun beats the hell out having a battery with ford on the side.You should have enough cash left to do this several times.