Unique Motorcars FIA Cobra 1964

Vehicle description

The SHELBY COBRA has continued to capture the hearts of many for decades. As you must be one of those discerning individuals. Just looking? Or are you seriously looking for a Cobra to buy? IF you are sincerely looking for one, please read this AD... it may help in your decision... And remember this, none of these Replica Cobras are perfect/perfect, they're all hand built examples. This one is quite good as the pictures suggest. It drives exceptionally well and as a MkII it definitely makes an outstanding impression wherever its taken, driven and shown. In nicer climates it could even be a daily driver... PLEASE NOTE: The prices for these Replica Cobras vary, as some are dirt cheap while others are seemingly quite expensive. The real costs to create or build one of these turns out to be far more than one would think, or even calculate. Buy one finished. At $125K, I'm not making a lot of profit here believe me. But, I am willing to listen to any intelligent offer(s). This is a REPLICA of the 1964 SHELBY MkII 289 AC COBRA roadster built and to replicate a modified-street 289 COBRA. As SHELBY AMERICAN in the height of the Cobras popularity modified many 260 and 289 stock Cobra roadsters for many Cobra customers who wanted their Mk1 or MkII Cobra to mimic the racing class of the winning 289 Shelby Cobras... And YES, ya probably don't want to read all this, but its important to this particular Rep-COBRA but really to all 289 Shelby COBRAS and especially Carroll Shelby, the man behind the whole Cobra phenomena. Has there EVER BEEN a car produced with a more colorful history as the Shelby Cobra? I think not. What car can you name that equals or even comes close to the Shelby Cobras story? That mere car set this planet on a whirl-wind tour in 1962 that STILL today is amazing. And IF you doubt any of this, buy one. I firmly believe there is no car that incites as much interest and respect as a Shelby Cobra (no matter what the model or as an Original or a Replica) as they just seem to be as magical as their reputations dictate over their time here. And yes, I hate to sell this creation, but the reality of reaching 80 has hit me and I am determined to find this Replica a good owner that will ALSO uphold the fact that Carroll Shelby's 289 MkII Cobras ARE thee most important models of the entire Cobra roadster line up. So, scoff at my price/value of this one, but the price tag of whatever it is always (in todays world) determines somethings worth. As the owner of this Cobra and a super fan of Carroll Shelby, his Cobras and for ALL their worth (their historic past) and especially his 289's, this Silver MkII IS worth every dollar that it took to create it, save it, restore it, fashion it to compliment ALL 289 Cobras. One must own one to fully appreciate their values. Each one more or less represents some extension of their great history, paying homage to the man and his car... The SHELBY 289 COBRA. As the owner and more correctly... part builder-restorer of this Replica COBRA, as it sat for nearly 13 years in a barn-like setting with only 1200 miles registered on it. Mostly finished but not really as it was hardly driven when I purchased it. But I soon found out that many of its components/parts needed to be replaced and/or reworked but, now its nearly new and ready for a new adventure. And nearing 80, I can’t let this example of Shelby’s 289 Snake sit, it needs a new owner that will and can drive as well as show the car more than I can. Being the more rare 289, most onlookers are intrigued and amazed by its MkII classic statement as a copy/replica of the SHELBY COBRA that started a religion of Shelby car followers. No model of Shelby Cobras earned more recognition than his 289 Cobra racecars and street versions as well. The 289 Shelby Cobra saved AC Cars Ltd. from extinction (according to many in the know back then) but, above all set the ball rolling for Ford Motor Company for their onslaught-campaign of "Total Performance" that was due in part brought on by the impact of Shelby's 260 Cobra and then revolutionized by the 289 motor that was modified even further by his team of LA hot rodders, real car junkies and advanced high-tech thinking race car fabrication engineers that Shelby hired and brought into his mix for the production of his dream car... his COBRA Sportcar (as he called them). And then to go out and stun the world with their winning performance with their (hand-picked) by Shelby racecar drivers who seem to WIN everywhere the COBRA was taken and raced, including Europe. Where Carroll Shelby wanted to beat the dominating racing sportscars of Europe such as Ferrari. And really where the real-feud between Ford and Ferrari started, it started with Shelby beating Ferrari at his own game with the deadly 289's and then the more deadly 289 Daytona Cobra coupe's. Only (6) six Daytona's were ever produced, but they beat Enzo Ferrari's 250 GTO's. And in my book that set the tone. Along with Carroll Shelby's disdain for Enzo Ferrari (because Shelby didn't like the way Enzo treated his drivers and mechanics) and he once declined to drive for Ferrari in his racing days and that also set the tone for the coming situation between Ford and Ferrari over the so-called sale of Ferrari. The real feud started with Ford powered Cobras fueled by Shelby's ambition to beat Ferrari. As Shelby's Cobras did that famously, many times. And too bad they didn't illustrate that important point more in the Ford vs Ferrari movie including giving his Mk1-MkII and Daytona Cobras a bit more credit. Shelby's 289 Cobras real success ARE truly what led to the direction of the Mk1 GT40 program as it was powered by Shelby's 289 Cobra engine. Carroll Shelby's enthusiasm, his motivation, inspiration and his sales/business ambition to produce a sportscar capable of winning big time world-wide racing events set the stage for the new interests from FOMOCO for going sportscar racing and to include specialty car production. The real-value importance of Carroll Shelby's MkII 289's ARE far more important to the SHELBY COBRA Story than all the other Cobra models put together, that is IF you really think about their historic past credentials. IF that 289 Cobra didn't clear the path for the 427's, and all the other sporting cars that were Ford powered even the impressive Mk1 GT40 and the iconic SHELBY GT350 Mustang (that both have become one of the most sought out after car(s) in world history) then something is wrong with your calculation's. But, as my AD here suggests and tries to illustrate the importance (for this Replica MkII 289 COBRA with a FIA body) for trying to give you a new outlook of valued importance of Shelby's 289's... but, most people believe or think the 427 COBRA is the only important Cobra. But, read the stories, the real stories on the development and production of Shelby's Cobras and their real success, you will find that his smaller, early creation of the 289 was and will forever be the more recognized Cobra for their importance and their Hallowed-Value to that famous automotive icon: Carroll Shelby and that brainchild... his COBRA. No car has ever inspired more people, more attention, more credibility than a SHELBY COBRA (including his Replicas of them). The 500 words words here don't even come close to explaining a Shelby 289 Cobra's value and its legendary history. I have had my fun and completed my commitment to myself 60 some years ago with this 1964 MkII Replica Shelby 289 Cobra, but its time to pass it on to another fan of the MkII 289's. IF you read my AD for this iconic Replica in totality... you might agree with its worth, its perceived value as its owner and as a major fan and believer in the 289 Shelby Cobras impact on the world stage. In a matter of 5 years or so, I believe this Replica Cobra (properly maintained and kept in great shape even modified more, possibly even a full on FIA race car look) to be worth twice what I'm asking for it today because of where the world is headed and seems to be going. I sold my 1965 Sunbeam Tiger in 1980 and to help save my company for a mere $5500 and 7-8 years ago watched it go across a Mecum Auction block for $200K. I believe over the next 5-6 years that Carroll Shelby's Mk1 260's and more so his MkII 289 Cobras, Originals and their Replicas... ARE going to outsell and/or become the Shelby Cobras to own and really because there have been too many 427 Replicas produced and the Original 427 Cobras ARE going to be unobtainable that is, unless you are mega rich. The Original 289's WILL also be at costs that very few can muster, but as most have believed the 427 Cobra IS the king and the one to own and why the Cobra Replica industry manufactures over 50 some years have produced so many (60,000 plus of them as Replicas have been created) and the little 289's were sadly discounted and only appriciated by a few and why really there ARE so few of them in Replicated form. But, of course many will argue with my logic and assessment here of the 289's value. But numbers don't lie. Research my points here for yourself. But as history always makes its comeback in a special way(s)... the SHELBY 289 MkII COBRA is entering that arena as you read this. Believe it or not believe it. But watch these 289 MkII Cobras soar in new interests and better values. The price of this Cobra is firm, but I will ship it, transport it professionally anywhere in the USA free. And just why as a Shelby Cobra enthusiast I chose to make my move to own one on his 289 MkII Replica. As I was in no position to buy an Original one, as I waited to long to justify buying one. Unless you live in hot-climate area, your limited for driving one of these. A Replica WAS my only alternative to find out what it was like to own, drive and in a small way participate in the iconic history of a sportcar that made such an impression as a mere car like a Shelby Cobra. And the 289' MkII WAS the car... The King of Cool; Steve McQueen didn't own a 427, he owned (or was given to him by Shelby) a Black 289 MkII COBRA. The cool thing about a 289 small block Cobra (or one with 300-335-350 max HP) IS they're FUN to drive. That 427 Cobra with 400+ to 500/600 HP is not fun. Their size, their power to weight transfer makes for a hairy-ass ride. Their scary as Hell white knuckle brutes that offer a hair-raising event. I believe Shelby's 289 Cobras were the best of the best overall. And what Carroll had in mind. But as success changes our thinking, Shelby thought he had to create something far more presenting, far more impacting... and sticking a near 500HP NASCAR motor into a Cobra (even modified some for its chassis/body) in 1965-67 was too damn much car for the average joe to tool around in. And also why the 427 Cobra was eyed heavily by a new division that was rearing its head called the EPA. And then Ford was then compelled to also stop giving big-block NASCAR motors to Shelby as well. The body size, weight, safety standards that were available in the 60's ARE NOT like they are today. These Replica Cobras today (from the Original 998) are far better, far better equipped and far safer than an Original Cobra. But, in my book, the smaller body, less HP makes the MkII's the more nimble, the more enjoyable driver. Who the Hell wants a car that scares the Hell out of you and your passenger... not be brother. I want to throw it around some, get on it when I can, stop it without any fanfare and above all roll into the cruise-in a park it next to the 427's, cause there won't be ANY other 289's except yours... And by chance IF there IS another 289, it WILL BE an Original... Been they're Done that. I place tremendous added value and a greater importance on his 289 MkII Cobras over and above all the other Cobra models. As my AD here for this Replica depicts their importance clearly. But sadly, I also know that most people today DO NOT WANT to READ a lot of AD copy. Sorry, but I write ad copy for automotive catalogues and automotive stories and love these Shelby inspired machines so much so, that I don’t believe you can say enough about their statement they make and what they give back to you as an owner of one. But, if you’re one of those folks who hate to read, simply STOP HERE... the pictures should tell you enough, it’s a RARE Replica 289 MkII Cobra and as you can see it’s a very good looking 289 with the FIA body Replica in Silver with Maroon racing stripe. And with a (pro-built) small-block FORD 351Windsor and about 350HP (it’s a very solid car and wicked-fast enough for an open-top, 2K pound roadster) and coupled to a Tremec 5 speed transmission w/Hurst shifter and RAM hydraulic clutch assembly. Plus a Flaming River rack/pinion. All in all, as the smaller body of the 289 (compared to the larger 427) and its smaller downturned Cobra snout, flared fenders and historically no side pipes and the classic authentic Halibrand cast wheels w/knock-off correct-spanners GIVE this COBRA a very distinctive look and makes for a real tribute to the first generation of SHELBY 289 COBRAS… Those were very special sport cars that took the world by complete surprise in the early 1960's. But, I ALSO firmly believe that anyone who sincerely plans to buy and own a car of this nature and cost WILL want to discuss its particulars with its current owner. And as its owner (and I’m sure that Dr Dave its original owner/builder would love to know of its new owner and whereabouts as well. These Shelby Cobras even Replicas of them are a close net bunch as the respect and value of the Cobras pedigree, their historic past credentials GIVE and EARN even these Replicas a tremendous edge over most classic and/or exotic machinery, believe me as an owner of one. And as I have always admired and loved the smaller body design of the 289 over the exaggerated 427 body and especially the FIA and USRRC Cobras with their flared fenders. And I must say this: I give UNIQUE MOTORCARS far more credit to their 289 FIA COBRA body over and above several other Cobra Kit-Car manufactures. UMC FIA flared fenders (front and rear) are ascetically better looking they look more like small versions of the 427 gargantuan fenders. And the quality of the UMC fiberglass body and fittings IS absolutely excellent. In addition AS a real car guy (Google ROKSTOCK Capri) I see these MkII 289 Replica Cobras and especially the Original MkII 289 Cobras ALL reaching higher in their interests and their values over the next 5 years or so. And mainly BECAUSE there have been too many 427 bodied Replica Cobras produced over the last 50 years or so. But very few of the MkII Cobras created. 5,000-6,000 compared to 60,000 MkIII 427’s. And even when a good portion of those 427 bodied Cobras were and still are built with small-block Ford motors. I tried to finish this COBRA offered here more authentic to the 289 modified-street version. But, one could change the dash and trunk, re-spray it with no stripe easily for a more authentic street 289 or better yet, re-spray it the iconic Viking Blue, add the correct COBRA intake with the four (4) downdraft Weber carbs, the white roundels w/number for the more important FIA COBRA Replica. NO CSX Vin number, IF it did have that feature, I would have another $20 Grand added to its value right now as it sits firmly grounded on the floor of a heated warehouse and correctly insured by Hagerty. All in all, the car is still costing me money and as I am trying to fully retire, it needs to go, sadly. So, IF you are seriously looking for a Shelby Cobra, the MkII 289’s ARE on the rise and this one IS FOR SURE a nice example and tribute to Carroll Shelby, my old friend indeed… And I will say this, all the writings, books, articles that depict the Shelby Cobra story ALL start with one basic premise, that Shelby simply took an old English car design the ACE body and popped in a Ford V/8. But the basic John Tojeiro design of the Ace (and massaged a bit for the front-end to give the car a cleaner-meaner-snake-er look for Shelby’s COBRA concept) the result in my way of thinking… The Shelby Cobra HAS TO BE one of the best looking roadster-convertible-open-top car designs ever conceived. It still looks beautiful and years ahead of its time still today. With its beautiful flowing lines, tight cockpit, beautiful front snout to its masculine but very sexy ass-end. A Shelby Cobra will continue throughout time to be a time-less design and just why any version or good example of one will ALWAYS appreciate and NOT depreciate in their value. Where will this Cobra be in value in five (5) short years from now? You’re guess is as good as mine. But, mine (with my automotive experience of car understanding) believes it WILL and COULD be worth far more than I place on its value today. As I cannot be the only Cobra car guy that also believes so heavily about Shelby’s 289’s vs. his 427’s. They WERE simply the model of Cobras that cleared the path, earned their due for others to follow… including that 427 COBRA, Daytona COBRA, GT350 and even the Mk1 GT40. That IS just how important Carroll Shelby’s MkII 289 COBRA racecars and street versions were and even today and will always be to that iconic trade name; SHELBY. Shelby's 289 AC COBRA was the near-perfect and quintessential high-powered V/8 sportcar that set the automotive world on its ear. And those Originals to the Replicas of them still make an impression like no-other car... everywhere they show up. Carroll Shelby's MkII 289's WON all the races and changed automotive motorsport history for car enthusiasts worldwide. And it’s really too damn bad that FOMOCO didn’t really see nor understand fully that Carroll Shelby's Cobra could have been realized far more for its real-potential, improved more and made safer and/or above all made consumer friendly enough to be a real contender at the “Showroom Floor levels" and as result, a real threat against GM's street-version of the Corvette. As opposed to the only 998 versions that were originally produced by SHELBY. But the near 500HP of the 427 COBRA in 1967 was too much car (as it also was the car that helped to create the EPA) but also Ford wanted to beat Ferrari at his own game with their Ford-financed GT40 and the thought of a special Mustang by Carroll Shelby's standard's was more important than his COBRAS and in 1967 Shelby's COBRA operation was scrapped/stopped and sadly... ended. And truly why the 427 COBRA was so Replicated... just take something away from the public and see what happens. Hell, it was the model that was so short lived (only 348-350) was ever created. And we live in a country that when something of real-value is taken away... we find ways to copy or replicate and the Cobra was so easy to replicate, IF you ARE truly honest with yourself Carroll Shelby did the exact same thing as we are doing today with these Replica Cobras. We use a body/frame/chassis from one source then purchase a motor and transmission from another source and then spend thousands of hours and thousands of dollars into making the whole affair into a drivable car. Carroll Shelby's Original Cobras WERE more or less Kit-cars as well. And really the only difference in building or re-creating (these) Replica Cobras IS that we are not Carroll Shelby. We are simply honoring him and his great concept by building these Cobras to replicate the leader the one guy that came along at the correct time in history with the right idea and had the right background for the creation of the car. And they are basically race cars for the street. And at a time in history where you could do this, that is until you more or less go too far and of which where the 427 came into being. Near 500/600 HP in a car and its construction for 90% of the people who can buy this creation is too much. And, just why 99% of the time these big-block massive HP Cobras and just sit and become yard-art or garage art. A Cobra with 300-350 HP is by far, far more enjoyable to drive. This is what Shelby Replica Cobras really are. And praise these Cobra Kit car people for their work and diligence in honoring such an iconic figure as Carroll Shelby was and is still today with their kits and now even turn-key examples. The SHELBY COBRA has to be one of the most unique cars to have ever been created. IF you think you ARE a real car-guy or car-gal you should own one of these once in your life (even a Replica) you WILL never forget it. They are ego builders for sure. But, truthfully you really do get caught-up in the Shelby Cobra Magic. And if you think this all BS, buy one... you'll see. Being a small part of that legendary history of the Shelby Cobras and their Great Impact made on mankind and its obsession with the Automobile, there is NO CAR quite like A SHELBY inspired COBRA... maybe a Ferrari 250 GTO. But, who's got $70M to $100M to find out which car gets more attention; an original Carroll Shelby 427 COBRA or Enzo Ferrari's 250 GTO? The 250 GTO IS the obvious winner, but parked next to a Real and/or Original 427 COBRA, well, I'm sure that that COBRA and even at a fraction of the price-value of the 250 GTO will get its intended attention but enough to even hear " I know it’s crazy, but I would rather have the COBRA, than the GTO. Any Shelby Cobra IS just that good. Period... They ARE that more than good. This Replica MkII COBRA was built and created from the UNIQUE MOTORCARS 289 FIA racecar body (Deluxe Pallet Kit) but created to replicate the modified-street 289 Cobras that also ruled the streets and boulevards of Southern California and soon after... the entire world, and even helped to create the COB Cobras that dominated the racetracks and ran the streets throughout Europe. And now, those original 289 COBRAS are the prize catch for car collectors. YES, is the magic word for Shelby's MkII 289 COBRAS. This particular Replica HAS far more potential as it could very easily be converted to replicate the original (5 only) FIA race cars produced or the few 30/35 USRRC racing Cobras that earned Carroll Shelby his Cobras their distinctive place in automotive history. Overview: This exceptional modified-street MkII 289 Shelby AC Cobra replica stands out in a crowded market, offering a top tier build that is not only rare but also steeped in automotive history. Unlike the more common Replica MkIII and MkIV 427 models (and there ARE thousands of them for sale today) this vehicle pays homage to the original MkII Cobras that significantly impacted the entire automotive world. But, above all to Motorsports. As the Shelby MkII 289's were the Cobras that set the records, won and dominated the racetracks of the world. No, racing 427's ever accomplished what Carroll Shelby's 289's accomplished. They tried, but they were no match for the 289's. And the 289 motor, frame and chassis mated to the Daytona Cobra coupe Aluminum body was the Cobras that became the Cobras that cemented and forever established Carroll Shelby's name in the automotive history books forever. But, historically it took the winning success of Shelby's little MkII 289 Cobras roadsters to inspire ALL other Cobra models. And, to be honest just WHY they should be given more value and credit. And just WHY (as a real fan and as my automotive experience with Carroll Shelby is somewhat mentioned here) I intend to uphold and give real value to his 289 MkII Original and even the Replicas of them more value and recognition than most people seem to be giving the model. And, I assure you, that over time Carroll Shelby's 260 Mk1 and his 289 MkII's WILL BE the models that generate more values and more interests... When one spools up information on the web, and to include the books written on Carroll Shelby and his Cobras... what model is depicted, is shown more (and has been throughout history) his 289 race car Cobras; the FIA and USRRC Cobras to include modified-street versions. The 289's were the dominate models. Much like the 289 FIA bodied Replica offered here FOR SALE. They led the charge, laid the groundwork, established the SHELBY brand and made it possible for all other models of SHELBY COBRAS to be created. Without their importance, their true value to Carroll Shelby, Ford Motor Company and even AC Cars Ltd, it’s doubtful IF any of the other Shelby inspired cars would have ever even come to mind. There are not enough words to ever describe the sheer importance of The MkII 289 COBRA. But, IF you’re really looking to buy and own a Replica Cobra, please give Carroll Shelby's MkII 289 Cobras a closer look... they ARE definitely paramount in their significance to the Shelby Cobras legacy. A Nod to History: This modified-street version MkII 289 replica features the iconic FIA body, reminiscent of the few slab side 289 models modified by Shelby American in the 1960s for many of their original customers who wanted their Cobra to mimic the dominating racing 289's. Flared fenders and a bit more HP was the answer for these special Cobras that were dubbed modified-street roadsters. Owning this car means embracing a legacy that celebrates the achievements of Carroll Shelby and the MkII 289 Cobras, which not only dominated race tracks in the 60's but also revolutionized the entire automotive motorsport landscape. Shelby's MkII Cobras, were beyond pivotal in Carroll Shelby’s and Ford Motor Company's success. As Shelby's MkII 289's laid the real groundwork for renowned models like the Daytona Cobra Coupe, GT350 Mustang and even the MkI GT40. The incredible importance, value and significance of the MkII 289 Cobra cannot be overstated—its victories and championships established the SHELBY brand trade name and paved the way for future innovations in ALL high performance vehicles, no matter who the brand manufacture was and is. Fact. Why This Cobra Stands Out: Currently priced and valued at $125,000, this Cobra is a fantastic investment considering its build, condition, and exceptional components. And please note: IF it was a continuation replica CSX numbered Cobra it would be valued/priced at $135K/$140K. While many replicas focus on the flash of the 427, as this MkII 289 deserves real recognition for its historical significance. At a price that reflects its rarity, its quality, and its connection to the prestigious SHELBY COBRA name and as the MkII model this vehicle is a great buy for the discerning Shelby Cobra enthusiast that is seeking the replicated-authenticity of the first generation of race winning Cobras. But for its rare uniqueness, it is for one who also wants a MkII Cobra that is more street friendly as opposed to the look of an all-out racing FIA 289. This Cobra looks the part and is the perfect daily driver. With Impressive Specifications: This replica features a Pro-built 351 Windsor small-block engine (rated at 350HP and to replicate the modified 289 motors) and equipped with Ford GT40 iron heads and all top-shelf quality performance components: • Electrics: MSD • Intake: Edelbrock/Holley • Transmission: Tremec 5-speed with a Ram hydraulic clutch • Rear End: Jaguar IRS • Brakes: Wilwood 3 pot disc's • Suspension: Carrera coil-over gas shocks • Steering: Flaming River rack/pinion • Instrumentation: Stewart Warner • Wheels/Tires: Halibrand/Trigo 6-pin cast wheels with Dunlop tires In Conclusion: this MkII 289 Cobra replica offers both performance and a robust history that sets it apart from other models. If you share the passion for Shelby's iconic creations and recognize the value of this rare tribute, this Cobra may be the perfect addition to your collection. Take it or leave it—this is not just a mere car; it is a symbol of greatness that honed its image in the automotive world like no other car in history. The MkII 289 Shelby Cobras in 1962-1965 set the bar and the stage for all others to follow. NO 427 Cobra ever earned as much credit and importance as Carroll Shelby's 289 MkII's. Believe it or not believe it. But as a real car guy (ROKSTOCK Capri) and as a super fan of Carroll Shelby (over 60 years) I predict his MkII 289 Cobras to surpass the MkIII 427 for their collector values in the near future... the 289 MkII's were just to successful and all-important to that iconic brand; SHELBY. There are no words to describe their importance to the world of Motorsports. And I'm sure all you 427 fans out there think I'm way off, but think about it. The 289 COBRA paved the way AND THAT makes the difference in importance. The MkII 289's ARE beginning to soar in new interests and for sure values. This little number is about to appreciate a little more very soon as were now into 2025. And like all good collector-cars... they should appreciate a bit every year not depreciate... sound fair? CALL ME: If you're sincerely interested at: five zero three 997, two, two, two, one. And IF the AD is up, the car is still available. The listed price/value of this Cobra includes ALL shipping and transportation costs ANYWHERE in the USA.