UK vs USA — 1966 vs 1963
| GT6 Mk III | Cobra 289 FIA Roadster | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 104 hp | 271 hp |
| Torque | 116 lb-ft | 310 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,998 cc | 4,727 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 10.1 sec | 5.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 114 mph | 155 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.2 sec | 13.2 sec |
| Weight | 1,949 lbs | 2,150 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,108 mm | 2,286 mm |
| Length | 3,784 mm | 3,835 mm |
| Units Produced | 40,926 | 654 |
| Original MSRP | $3,100 | $5,995 |
| Value (Excellent) | $40,000 | $2,500,000 |
| Collectibility | 6/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 6/10 | 9/10 |
Numbers favor the 1963 Shelby Cobra 289 FIA Roadster with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1966 Triumph GT6 Mk III offers lighter weight, better value, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.
The rivalry between UK and USA automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1966 Triumph GT6 Mk III versus 1963 Shelby Cobra 289 FIA Roadster is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1963 Shelby Cobra 289 FIA Roadster holds a clear advantage in raw power with 271 hp compared to 104 hp, a 167-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Triumph GT6 uses a Inline-6 OHV displacing 1,998 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 10.1 seconds. The Triumph GT6 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 201 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 Triumph GT6's 40,926 examples. On the collector market, the 1963 Shelby Cobra 289 FIA Roadster commands a significant premium over the 1966 Triumph GT6 Mk III, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1963 Shelby Cobra 289 FIA Roadster rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.