While there are numerous replicas of the Shelby Cobra on the market, nothing can compare to an authentic model, such as this 1963 Shelby 289 Cobra that’s going under the hammer at Mecum’s sale. This event is set to align with the 2023 Monterey Car Week coming up next week.
This Cobra, identified by the serial number CSX 2100, is believed to be the 100th car manufactured following the completion of the initial Cobra prototype, CSX 2000, in 1962. The auction information notes that it was charged to Shelby American on March 13, 1963, and billed to McCollum Ford in Dishman, Washington, on June 7 of the same year.
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Shelby American provided the dealership with CSX 2100, featuring black paint and black interiors. It comes with a 289-cubic-inch Ford V-8 engine and a 4-speed manual gearbox. Although later models of the Cobra had larger engines, early versions like this 289 Cobra played a significant role in cementing Carroll Shelby’s sports car’s status as an automotive legend.
According to the World Registry of Cobras and GT40s, CSX 2100 was sold to a Seattle used car dealer in 1966, allegedly by its first owner. Later, Rupert Streets in Washington acquired it and found an aftermarket bell housing and 4.56 gears, suggesting that the initial owner had used the Cobra for drag racing, as per the details in the auction.
Image of the 1963 Shelby 289 Cobra Roadster (courtesy of Mecum Auctions)
In 1967, Streets transported the Cobra to Canada and sold it to a resident of British Columbia, Peter Kelley. The car was eventually stored in a barn, registering about 27,800 miles. It was unearthed in 1982, renovated, and has since switched owners on several occasions.
Though CSX 2100 has undergone some changes, including new paint and interior during its 1982 restoration, any legitimate Cobra can fetch a high price. Mecum anticipates that it will go for somewhere between $1 million and $1.2 million—a price that corresponds with the towering values associated with Cobras.
The auction during Monterey Car Week is scheduled to take place from August 17 to 19.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about 1963 Shelby 289 Cobra Roadster
What is the 1963 Shelby 289 Cobra Roadster that’s going to be auctioned?
The 1963 Shelby 289 Cobra Roadster is an original production model that’s known for its black paint, black interior, and 289-cubic-inch Ford V-8 engine. It is set to be auctioned by Mecum during the 2023 Monterey Car Week.
When and where will the auction of the Shelby 289 Cobra take place?
The auction for the Shelby 289 Cobra will occur during the Monterey Car Week, scheduled to run from August 17 to 19, 2023.
Who has owned the 1963 Shelby 289 Cobra Roadster, and what is its history?
The car was initially billed to Shelby American and then McCollum Ford in 1963. It changed hands several times, being traded to a Seattle dealer in 1966 and later sold to Rupert Streets and then Peter Kelley. It was restored in 1982 after being parked in a barn and has changed owners a few times since.
What is the expected selling price of the 1963 Shelby 289 Cobra Roadster?
The 1963 Shelby 289 Cobra Roadster is expected to sell for between $1 million and $1.2 million at the auction.
Is the 1963 Shelby 289 Cobra Roadster completely original?
No, the Cobra received new paint and a new interior during its 1982 restoration. However, it is still considered a genuine and highly valuable model.
5 comments
A true piece of automtive history. This Cobra symbolizes an era of racing and innovation. The details of the drag racing parts is a great addition, very nostalgic.
Never really got the fuss about old cars but this one seems special. my friend would love this, he’s into classic stuff. Does anyone know how to attend the auction?
i heard about this car before, such a rich history and its great that its been restored to glory. would love to own it but that price tag… Yikes.
Those were the days, big engines, manual gear, real cars! The new ones just dont have the soul that these old beauties had, 1.2 million seems fair for a legend like this.
Wow, this cobra sounds amazing wish I could see it in person! Anyone know if the auctions are open to public?