Evaluation: Works Cobra driven by Ken Miles and Bob Bondurant in 1963 with nine podium finishes, and privateer race history in SCCA from 1964-66. Also displayed by Shelby at the 1964 World’s Fair in New York. The new Cobras brought Shelby USRRC and SCCA titles in 1963, in large part thanks to this very car. The paint has a few scattered chips at the lower edge of the rear wheel flares. The engine compartment is fully restored but could use a light detail. The underbody is clean with no oxidation. The seats have some creasing from use but the interior is not excessively worn. An excellent restoration done in 1997 that has held up exceptionally on this works Cobra, and of course the history is really what matters here.
Bottom Line: This very important early Cobra sold for $2,585,000 at Pebble Beach 10 years ago, but the Shelby legend and reputation have only grown since then, as has the market for historically significant racing cars. Ken Miles’ reputation has also been enhanced by the 2019 Ford v Ferrari film, and CSX2129 was driven onto the block by his son Peter. The car deserved every bit of this price.
