1964 Shelby Cobra 289 Roadster

This Shelby 289 Cobra was billed to Shelby America from AC Cars on October 21, 1963, and nine days later, was dispatched to Los Angeles aboard the SS Loch Loyal. Shelby America fitted the engine, upgrades to the chassis, and Class 'A' accessories which included Cobra valve covers, aluminum Cobra valve covers, chromed 60-spoke wire wheels with whitewall tires, and a luggage rack. It was invoiced to Broad Motors of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on January 8, 1964, with a total suggested retail price of $5,584.05.

This 289 Cobra's first owner was a Philadelphia-area art collector who owned the car for just a few months before selling it to local clothier Stanley Spritzler. Lee Weinstein of Chatham, New Jersey, acquired the Cobra in 1968 as a high-school graduation gift to himself. It was used as daily transportation throughout the 1970s and in the care of Mr. Weinstein for the next 47 years (until his passing in 2013). In 1981, Geoff Howard of Accurate Restorations in Danbury, Connecticut, was commissioned to perform a thorough chassis and mechanical restoration.

Since entering new ownership, the car was given a three-year full restoration to factory specifications by Classic MotorSports of Northville, Michigan. Colour Restoration of Loveland, Colorado, was tasked with bringing the aluminum body back to factory specifications. Over 300 hours were spent block sanding the body alone. Upon completition, the car wore a factory-correct finish of Vineyard Green with Saddle leather upholstery.

By Daniel Vaughan | Apr 2023