Las Vegas, Nevada - 2015 hasn't even begun yet and already we have a contender for Rip-Off of the Year, as Shelby American announces the 50th Anniversary 427 Cobra.
The 1965 Shelby Cobra MKIII was a huge step forward from its small-block predecessors, with all-new coil suspension, a bigger passenger compartment, upgraded brakes, wider track, fatter tyres and, most important of all, a thundering 6978cc Ford 427 FE V8 crate engine that was rated at 362kW in racing trim.
For the next few seasons the third-generation Cobras ran rampant in sports-car racing and, with a top speed very close to 300km/h, they were still competitive well into the 1970s.
Only 343 were built, making them among the rarest and most sought-after Cobras of them all.
‘CONTINUATION’ SERIES
Now, to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the 427 Cobra, Shelby American is planning to build just 50 'continuation' chassis (that means they'll be recorded in the World Shelby Register as genuine 1965 models!) with the serial numbers CSX4500 to CSX4599, with original styling (in either fibreglass or aluminium) and coil suspension but with modern disc brakes, a stronger frame and premium black leather trim.
Each will be built to order, finished in Shelby's signature racing blue with white stripes (although aluminium-bodied cars can be ordered with a polished finish) and will come with a powder-coated frame, an 87 litre racing-style fuel tank, racing brakes, special 15" rims, custom gauges, gold 50th anniversary badging and a fitted car cover.
A special optional engine package is being developed by the Shelby Engine Company.
The anniversary Shelby Cobra will be shown in public for the first time at the Barrett-Jackson auction in Scottsdale, Arizona on 13 January, and the order book will open at that time, starting at $119 995 (R1.38 million) for a fibreglass or $179 995 (R2.07 million) for an aluminium-bodied car. Please note that these prices do not include engine or gearbox; those are extra, as is the cost of having them installed.