USA vs USA — 1962 vs 1967
| Cobra 427 S/C | Corvette Sting Ray L88 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 485 hp | 430 hp |
| Torque | 480 lb-ft | 450 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 6,997 cc | 6,997 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 4.2 sec | 4.9 sec |
| Top Speed | 165 mph | 170 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 12.2 sec | 12.8 sec |
| Weight | 2,500 lbs | — |
| Wheelbase | 2,286 mm | 2,489 mm |
| Length | 3,962 mm | 4,445 mm |
| Units Produced | 348 | 20 |
| Original MSRP | $7,495 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $5,000,000 | $5,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 10/10 | 10/10 |
On balance, the 1962 Shelby Cobra 427 S/C makes a stronger case on paper with more power, quicker acceleration, stronger collectibility. However, the 1967 Chevrolet Corvette Sting Ray L88 counters with higher top speed, greater rarity, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1962 Shelby Cobra 427 S/C for outright capability, or the 1967 Chevrolet Corvette Sting Ray L88 for a more distinctive ownership experience.
In the world of Sports Car cars, few comparisons generate as much discussion as the 1962 Shelby Cobra 427 S/C versus the 1967 Chevrolet Corvette Sting Ray L88. Both hail from Muscle era and represent the pinnacle of their respective manufacturers' ambitions. The 1962 Shelby Cobra 427 S/C holds a clear advantage in raw power with 485 hp compared to 430 hp, a 55-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Shelby Cobra uses a V8 OHV (Ford 427 FE) displacing 6,997 cc, while the Chevrolet Corvette relies on a V8 OHV with 6,997 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1962 Shelby Cobra 427 S/C edges ahead at 4.2 seconds versus 4.9 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 20 units built, the 1967 Chevrolet Corvette Sting Ray L88 is considerably scarcer than the Shelby Cobra's 348 examples. On the collector market, the 1967 Chevrolet Corvette Sting Ray L88 commands a significant premium over the 1962 Shelby Cobra 427 S/C, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1962 Shelby Cobra 427 S/C rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.