Steve McQueen's 1963 Shelby 289 Cobra Roadster Set for Auction at Mecum

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Steve McQueen's 1963 Shelby 289 Cobra Roadster, rich in Hollywood history, set to auction at Monterey 2024 by Mecum.

The iconic 1963 Shelby 289 Cobra Roadster, famously owned by Hollywood legend Steve McQueen, is set to cross the auction block on Friday, August 16th, at the Monterey 2024 auction by Mecum. Known by its chassis number CSX2161, this historic vehicle not only boasts a rich automotive heritage but also a fascinating history tied to some of the most notable figures in Hollywood.

Initially billed to Shelby American on July 16, 1963, and shipped to Los Angeles aboard the SS Pacific Fortune, this Cobra was originally finished in silver with a red interior. It came equipped with the Class A Accessories package, which included chromed air cleaner and valve covers, chromed front and rear bumper guards, a chromed luggage rack, wind wings, tinted sun shades, competition seat belts, a Smith heater, and whitewall tires.

On October 30, 1963, the car was invoiced to Wolper Productions of Los Angeles and registered to renowned film producer David L. Wolper. Wolper's impressive credits include films and documentaries such as "Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory," "The Thorn Birds," "Roots," and "L.A. Confidential.” In 1965, conductor and composer Elmer Bernstein acquired the Cobra from Wolper and loaned it to his friend, Steve McQueen.

Steve McQueen, a legendary actor known for his love of fast cars and motorcycles, maintained possession of the CSX2161 from 1965 until late 1967. During this period, McQueen drove the Cobra regularly, and his attachment to the car was so deep that he managed to keep it for several months even after it was sold to its next owner. McQueen's fondness for the vehicle adds a significant layer of historical and sentimental value to this already extraordinary car.

After McQueen, the Cobra was purchased by Richard A. Mathis in 1967, who permitted McQueen to keep the car for a few more months. Two years later, Mathis sold the car to Wayman McCoo, brother of singer Marilyn McCoo and road manager for her group "Fifth Dimension." The car was imported to Switzerland in 2003 and received several modifications, including a new black paint job, a driver’s roll bar, 15x6.5 inch FIA Halibrand wheels, a hood scoop, and chrome rear quick jacks.

The Cobra resided in the United Kingdom from 2006 to 2024, gathering numerous certifications and historical documents along the way. These include MOT test certificates, a FIVA identity card, a copy of the U.K. registration certificate, U.K. homologation paperwork, previous registration copies, and a CD of restoration images. The car is also listed in the Shelby Registry, affirming its authenticity and historical significance.

Under the hood, the Cobra retains its original 289 CI V-8 engine and 4-speed manual transmission. It features a tubular steel chassis, wishbone front and rear suspension with transverse leaf springs and telescopic dampers, rack and pinion steering, and Girling 4-wheel disc brakes with 2-piston calipers. The interior is outfitted with a wood-rimmed AC steering wheel, Willans harnesses, Smiths metric instruments, and a fire extinguisher, all riding on Pirelli tires.

With its rich history and association with Steve McQueen, the 1963 Shelby 289 Cobra Roadster CSX2161 is a unique collector's item. Its journey from the hands of Hollywood elite to the auction block at Monterey offers a rare opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts to own a piece of automotive and cinematic history. As it prepares to cross the block, all eyes will be on this legendary roadster, a testament to Shelby’s engineering prowess and McQueen’s enduring legacy.

This great vehicle is selling at Mecum Monterey. Visit their site to learn more about this and their other consignments.

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