The original 289 Shelby Cobras are among the most iconic cars ever built. The creation of racing legend Carroll Shelby, the Cobra was introduced in 1962 and produced through 1967. The short run of Cobras led Shelby American to create the continuation series, a modern day build of the classic Cobra. The car on offer is one such example, a true continuation car built by Shelby American, bearing the serial number CSX 8001.

The story of this Cobra began when the original owner, Bob Kennedy, of Phoenix, Arizona, found a 1965 Ford 289 K-code engine. He personally contacted Carroll Shelby and gave him a blank check to build an aluminum bodied “slab side” 289 Cobra. After a 22-month build process, CSX 8001 was delivered in late 2002. CSX 8001 became the first in a small series of continuation 289 cars, all of which are highly desirable in today’s market. The car offered here is one of a small handful of cars built with an aluminum body, whereas most examples were bodied in fiberglass, making this a highly special example of the legendary 289 Cobra.

Period-correct features abound, including the proper Ford 289 K-code with Weber carburetors, cast aluminum seven-quart oil pan, remote oil filter and oil cooler. The V-8 engine has recently been tuned and dyno-tested and is backed by a Borg Warner T5 five-speed manual transmission with hydraulically-actuated release bearing assembly. Power is distributed through a limited-slip differential. It also features an enlarged competition radiator, a Le Mans quick release fuel filler, 17×8.5-inch knock-off wheels, and a chromed roll bar.

Having had just two owners and covering just over 10,000 miles from new, this continuation Cobra presents beautifully. Recent upgrades include new rear leaf springs, an aluminum fuel tank, halogen bulbs, upgraded stereo with iPod connector, a country air horn and new three-point belts, and a driver’s headrest. Side curtains and convertible top also accompany the car, for all-weather enjoyment, if so desired. The Cobra also features custom hidden air conditioning, allowing some relief on the sunny top-down days most characteristic of Cobra ownership.

This car is a true one-off, well documented example of the highly popular continuation series of Shelby Cobras. It is currently registered in the UK and has been serviced and maintained in the UK by Thunder Road cars. CSX 8001 comes with a substantial documented history including reports from the recent tuning and dyno testing, and it is immediately recognizable with its polished aluminum body and unique aesthetic. With original 289 Cobras changing hands in the high six figures and beyond, this bespoke aluminum bodied continuation car by Shelby American is a superb way to enter the world of Cobra ownership.