UK vs USA — 1968 vs 1963
| Plus 8 Rover V8 | Cobra 289 FIA Roadster | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 190 hp | 271 hp |
| Torque | 235 lb-ft | 310 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 3,528 cc | 4,727 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.6 sec | 5.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 124 mph | 155 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.0 sec | 13.2 sec |
| Weight | — | 2,150 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,490 mm | 2,286 mm |
| Length | 3,960 mm | 3,835 mm |
| Units Produced | — | 654 |
| Original MSRP | — | $5,995 |
| Value (Excellent) | $105,000 | $2,500,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 9/10 |
The 1963 Shelby Cobra 289 FIA Roadster emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1968 Morgan Plus 8 Rover V8 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.
Putting the 1968 Morgan Plus 8 Rover V8 against the 1963 Shelby Cobra 289 FIA Roadster is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — UK versus USA. The 1963 Shelby Cobra 289 FIA Roadster holds a clear advantage in raw power with 271 hp compared to 190 hp, a 81-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1963 Shelby Cobra 289 FIA Roadster edges ahead at 5.5 seconds versus 5.6 seconds. On the collector market, the 1963 Shelby Cobra 289 FIA Roadster commands a significant premium over the 1968 Morgan Plus 8 Rover V8, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1963 Shelby Cobra 289 FIA Roadster rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.