AC Cobra 289
The AC Cobra is perhaps the most iconic American-British sports car hybrid ever created. Carroll Shelby's idea was simple but brilliant: take the lightweight AC Ace and install a Ford V8. The 289 Cobra was the first version, using the small-block Ford 289ci engine that produced 271 horsepower in a car weighing just 2,248 pounds. The result was savage performance and razor-sharp handling. The 289 Cobra is considered by many enthusiasts to be the better driver's car compared to the later 427 — its lighter weight and more balanced chassis make it more enjoyable on winding roads. Only 654 were built (plus racing variants), making them exceedingly rare. The Cobra's legacy extends far beyond its production numbers — it established Carroll Shelby as an automotive legend and created one of the most replicated cars in history.
Genuine 289 Cobras are worth $800K-2M+. Shelby American registry authentication is essential — thousands of replicas exist. The CSX serial number is the key to authenticity. Even genuine cars may have replacement engines/transmissions. The Ford small-block is supremely well-supported. Continuation Cobras offer the experience at lower cost.
About 654 Mark II/III 289 Cobras were built from 1962-1965, alongside racing versions. The Mark III (CSX 2001-CSX 2643) had rack and pinion steering. The later 427 Cobra used a completely redesigned wider chassis. Thousands of replicas and continuation cars exist.