1964 Shelby Cobra 289 Roadster

This 1964 Shelby Cobra 'B' Production Racing car is the 'winningest' Cobra in History. It was invoiced to Shelby America on 6/10/1964 and carried the chassis number CSX 2473. It was sent to Los Angeles on the SS American Princess on June 23rd. Its first owner was a Shelby employee named James Findley who purchased the car for $3,778. In 1965 he had the car painted black with white Le Mans stripes. He added 6.5-inch and 8.5-inch Halibrands, flared fenders, side pipes, quick-life jacks, a hood scoop, and a roll-bar.

With a little more preparation the vehicle was ready for competition in 1966. It was raced in 1966 and 1967 competitions, such as hill climbs, SCCA AutoCross trials, and road racing events. The car and driver were now ready for Regional and National 'B' Production racing.

During the 1967 and 1968 seasons, the car was driven by Don Roberts and scored 25 'BP' 1st place finishes, including 14 first overalls. It wore number 89 and was sponsored by Watkins Ford of Scottsdale, Arizona. After winning the SCCA 'B' Production title the car was invited to compete in the ARRC (American Road Race of Champions) where it took first place. This meant that the car and driver were the fastest in the Nation.

At the conclusion of the 1968 season, the car was sold to Bob Rodgers of San Francisco. He went on to qualify for the ARRC in 1969 and 1970. CSX 2473 was re-purchased by Don Roberts in 1972 and continued to race the vehicle. He returned to the SCCA run-offs after winning his Nationals. While traveling in first place, he spun out. After some vicious struggle, he was able to work his way back into second place.

The Cobra was again sold to ted Laverack of Salem, Oregon. It was sold to Larry Less of California in 1979. Later, Roberts bought it back, this being his third time. He and his partner, Jere Clark and Dave Walters, entered the vehicle in vintage competition.

At the 2006 RM Auction in Monterey, Ca the Cobra was estimated to sell between $950,000-$1,250,000. At the conclusion of the bidding, the vehicle was sold for $1,237,500.

It is estimated that CSX 2473 won more than 30 National, Regional and Hillclimb races sanctioned by the SCCA.

By Daniel Vaughan | Dec 2006