A Classic American Racer.
This 1964 Shelby Cobra 289 Mark II stands as one of approximately 528 Mark II examples produced between 1963 and 1965. Initially billed to Shelby American by AC Cars Limited on December 20, 1963, it made its journey to Los Angeles on January 2, 1964. Chassis 2274 was first sold to an owner by Noble Motor Company in Danville, Illinois. Over the years, it passed through several Midwest owners and underwent a repaint in the 1980s to its current blue with white Le Mans stripes. In the 1990s, the car joined a collection in New Hampshire where it remained for over two decades. Following a comprehensive refresh of its running gear in 2022, it was acquired by its current owner in 2024. This iconic vehicle is now offered on dealer consignment in North Salem, New York, with a detailed history and comprehensive documentation.
Powering this classic racer is a 289ci Ford V8 engine, which breathes through twin four-barrel carburetors, mated to a four-speed manual transmission. This Cobra features transverse leaf-spring suspension, rack-and-pinion steering, and four-wheel disc brakes, ensuring a dynamic driving experience. Its exterior includes painted 15” wire wheels, a hood scoop, dual rear-exit exhaust with chrome tips, and a black convertible top with matching side curtains. Inside, the car boasts black leather bucket seats, a riveted-wood-rimmed steering wheel, and Stewart-Warner instrumentation. The 2022 refurbishment, performed by Rare Drive in East Kingston, New Hampshire, included significant mechanical updates such as rebuilt calipers, replacement of dual master cylinders, and installation of new Koni shock absorbers.
Carroll Shelby, having retired from competitive driving due to a heart condition, embarked on creating a European-style sports car with American V8 power. In 1961, Shelby partnered with AC Cars in Surrey, UK, to develop a variant of the AC Ace, completed by Shelby in the US with Ford engines. The Cobra model was introduced in 1962, initially with a 260ci engine, before shifting to the 289ci unit in 1963. This specific example was originally finished in white with blue stripes and modified with a hood scoop in the 1970s before its 1980s repaint. The car's authenticity and provenance are well-documented, including its original invoice and SAAC registry entry.
The car's interior features include black carpeting, Impact latch-and-link lap belts, AC-branded pedals, and a cowl-mounted rearview mirror. The 289ci Windsor V8 engine is topped by Stelling & Hellings chrome air cleaners, with the 2022 refurbishment including new Buddy Bar ribbed valve covers and other engine components. Power is delivered to the rear wheels through a four-speed manual transmission, with the driveshaft and rear axles fitted with replacement U-joints. This Cobra 289 Mark II represents a well-preserved piece of automotive history, combining classic design with meticulous restoration, making it a coveted addition to any collection.
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