UK vs USA — 1968 vs 1963
| Plus Eight | Cobra 289 FIA Roadster | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 160 hp | 271 hp |
| Torque | 205 lb-ft | 310 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 3,528 cc | 4,727 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.6 sec | 5.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 125 mph | 155 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.0 sec | 13.2 sec |
| Weight | 2,028 lbs | 2,150 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,490 mm | 2,286 mm |
| Length | 3,962 mm | 3,835 mm |
| Units Produced | 6,200 | 654 |
| Original MSRP | $18,000 | $5,995 |
| Value (Excellent) | $100,000 | $2,500,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 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 1968 Morgan Plus Eight 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 1968 Morgan Plus Eight 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 160 hp, a 111-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. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 654 units built, the 1963 Shelby Cobra 289 FIA Roadster is considerably scarcer than the Morgan Plus Eight's 6,200 examples. On the collector market, the 1963 Shelby Cobra 289 FIA Roadster commands a significant premium over the 1968 Morgan Plus Eight, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1963 Shelby Cobra 289 FIA Roadster rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.