The 1966 Shelby 427 S/C Cobra at The Amelia

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Unveiling a masterpiece.

In a celebration of automotive prowess and historical significance, The Amelia Auction 2024 is poised to present an extraordinary piece of racing heritage from the Racer X Collection: the 1966 Shelby 427 S/C Cobra, estimated to fetch between $3,000,000 and $3,750,000. This rare gem, chassis No. CSX 3040, stands as one of the mere 31 Semi-Competition Cobras ever produced, marking it as a cornerstone of the big block Cobra legacy.

Conceived by the legendary Carroll Shelby following his 1964 GT Manufacturers' Championship victory, the 427 S/C Cobra was a bold step forward. With a chassis reimagined by Ford engineers to accommodate the formidable NASCAR-sourced 427 cu-in V8 engine, the Cobra was set to dominate. However, a twist of fate saw these beasts redirected from the track to the road, birthing the Semi-Competition, or S/C, version—a blend of ferocious power and slight road-going concessions that nonetheless delivered a driving experience unparalleled to this day.

A Provenance of Rarity and Originality

CSX 3040’s journey from its initial delivery to Hi-Performance Motors in California to its tenure with just five owners underscores its exceptional care and preservation. Among its notable custodians were collectors Peter Briggs and Chip Connor, each contributing to the vehicle's storied history. Entrusted to Cobra authority Mike McCluskey for a meticulous restoration, CSX 3040 today boasts its original body, engine, and drivetrain—a testament to its authenticity and significance.

The comprehensive restoration undertaken by McCluskey has ensured that CSX 3040 not only retains its historical integrity but also shines in a stunning silver with white competition stripes, ready to captivate onlookers and enthusiasts alike. Accompanied by original documentation, including the SAAC Cobra Registry entry and a restoration dossier, this Cobra’s provenance is irrefutably documented, enhancing its allure to collectors and historians.

As The Amelia Auction 2024 approaches, the 1966 Shelby 427 S/C Cobra stands as a beacon of American racing history and craftsmanship. Its rarity, originality, and meticulous preservation position it as a pinnacle collectible, embodying the spirit of competition and the legacy of Carroll Shelby. This offering represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to steward a piece of automotive legend, continuing its story for generations to come.

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