A meticulously restored 1964 Shelby 289 Cobra, once owned by Ron Riffel.
A remarkable 1964 Shelby 289 Cobra, Chassis No. CSX 2159, is poised to be one of the highlights at the Monterey Jet Center 2024 auction, organized by Broad Arrow Auctions. With an estimated value between $1,350,000 and $1,650,000, this historic vehicle carries a fascinating provenance, having only two owners from new and boasting 52 years of single-family ownership.
The story of this Cobra began in March 1964 when Ron Riffel, an engineer from Indianapolis, came across the sleek vehicle at Jerry Alderman's Ford dealership. Enthralled by its allure, Ron traded in his MGA Twin Cam and drove home the Cobra, marking the beginning of a lifelong passion. The Cobra, distinguished as the 159th small-block leaf-spring car built, featured several advancements, including a 289-cubic inch engine, rack-and-pinion steering, and four-wheel disc brakes.
Finished in Silver Mist, the rarest color for Cobras, CSX 2159 was the first 289 Cobra to be produced with front fender vents, a detail that set it apart from its peers. The car's unique configuration and limited production make it an exceptional collector's item.
Riffel's tenure with the Cobra was marked by numerous adventures and meticulous maintenance. The car served as a daily driver, a participant in racing events, and even the vehicle that brought home his firstborn from the hospital. The couple's memorable honeymoon trip to Los Angeles in the Cobra included a dramatic incident involving a collision with a 1950s Oldsmobile during a dust storm, after which the car was expertly repaired.
In 2008, after decades of storage and sporadic use, Ron and Loreta Riffel embarked on a thorough restoration of the Cobra, enlisting local artisan Denny Jamison for a frame-off refurbishment. Ron's son, an expert automotive painter, ensured the Silver Mist color was perfectly matched to the original. The restoration was completed with great care, preserving original components and adding thoughtful enhancements like rubber padding to protect the aluminum fenders.
The Cobra, now in pristine condition, has garnered several accolades, including invitations to prestigious events such as the Eyes on Design Show and the Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals. The car has also won numerous awards, attesting to its exceptional restoration and historical significance.
The current owner, who acquired CSX 2159 a decade ago, has maintained the vehicle in the same meticulous manner as the Riffels. With its rich history, rare color combination, and impeccable restoration, this Shelby 289 Cobra stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Carroll Shelby's automotive genius. Enthusiasts and collectors will have the rare opportunity to bid on this iconic piece of automotive history at the upcoming auction.
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