Expert Auto Appraisals inspected this 1964 Shelby 289 Cobra. I performed this Shelby 289 Cobra inspection during Monterey Car Week at the RM Sotheby’s Monterey 2021 auction. My inspection proved this was a great example of a rare Shelby 289 Cobra. The car’s presentation was excellent, finished in original colors, retaining both the original 289 engine and Borg-Warner T10L-1 transmission, stamped latches, and hinges. In addition to the presentation quality, this example was a later production car that featured desirable development upgrades seen in the later production run. My inspection of this Shelby Cobra at the auction assisted my client in making a bidding decision. As a result, my client was the winning bidder on the car. RM Sotheby’s cataloged the car with an auction estimate of $850,000 to $950,000. As a result, my client was the winning bidder on the car for $995,000 with buyer premium.
1964 Shelby 289 Cobra
The example was originally finished in Red with Black leather equipped with a Shelby-tuned 289 V8 producing 306 HP. The original customer ordered the car equipped with “Class A” accessories package, which included White Side Wall Tires and a luggage rack. The Small Block Cobra’s went through a few changes in production. This example was a later car that featured rack and pinion steering, factory side vents, Stewart Warner gauges, and Ford electrics. Shelby produced 655 Small Block Cobras with 260 (early cars) and 289 engines. Shelby created a timeless car and the Cobra brand that will live on forever.
Monterey Auction Inspection Services – RM Sotheby’s
Typical points examined on an auction inspection are chassis and body quality, driveline originality, and mechanical performance. An evaluation drive can also be arranged to check road performance if available. This type of service proves to be invaluable for our clients. As always, I collect the information important to many in buying or bidding decisions. In addition to the report, over 100 images covering all aspects of the vehicle were provided.
Expert Auto Appraisals inspects all Porsche sports cars and all other marques throughout the United States and Canada. I attend the auctions in Scottsdale, Monterey, and Amelia Island every year. Because of this, I provide inspection services at most auctions. I am at most RM Sotheby’s, Gooding & Co., Broad Arrow, and Bonhams events. I also regularly attend Mecum, Barrett-Jackson, and GAA auctions. If you are considering the purchase of a special-interest car, contact us to perform an auction inspection of the vehicle for you. Contact us today at 772.621.2622 to discuss your needs, or use our online Pre Purchase Inspection Request Form.
Call 772.621.2622
