UK vs USA — 1971 vs 1963
| E-Type Series III V12 Roadster | Cobra 289 FIA Roadster | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 272 hp | 271 hp |
| Torque | 304 lb-ft | 310 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 5,343 cc | 4,727 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.4 sec | 5.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 150 mph | 155 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.5 sec | 13.2 sec |
| Weight | 3,307 lbs | 2,150 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,667 mm | 2,286 mm |
| Length | 4,686 mm | 3,835 mm |
| Units Produced | 15,287 | 654 |
| Original MSRP | $6,900 | $5,995 |
| Value (Excellent) | $180,000 | $2,500,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 9/10 |
The 1963 Shelby Cobra 289 FIA Roadster emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering quicker acceleration, higher top speed, lighter weight. The 1971 Jaguar E-Type Series III V12 Roadster counters with better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
When UK engineering meets USA craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1971 Jaguar E-Type Series III V12 Roadster and 1963 Shelby Cobra 289 FIA Roadster embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1971 Jaguar E-Type Series III V12 Roadster producing 272 hp and the 1963 Shelby Cobra 289 FIA Roadster delivering 271 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Jaguar E-Type uses a V12 SOHC displacing 5,343 cc, while the Shelby Cobra 289 relies on a V8 OHV with 4,727 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1963 Shelby Cobra 289 FIA Roadster edges ahead at 5.5 seconds versus 6.4 seconds. The Shelby Cobra 289 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1157 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 654 units built, the 1963 Shelby Cobra 289 FIA Roadster is considerably scarcer than the Jaguar E-Type's 15,287 examples. On the collector market, the 1963 Shelby Cobra 289 FIA Roadster commands a significant premium over the 1971 Jaguar E-Type Series III V12 Roadster, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.