Description
- Superbly documented, original 289 Cobra MK II
- One of only 655 cars produced
- Extensive racing history, completely known history
- Excellent general condition, nice patina
- Since 2007 in Germany, registered in Germany
- 2012 Goodwood and 2013 OGP with driver Jochen Mass
Vehicle history:
In 1961, when the Ace production at AC was already dropping, former U. S. racer Carroll Shelby offered to upgrade the car using a more powerful Ford V8 engine. Formalities were quickly sorted out and Ford began supplying modified 4. 3-liter V8 units. Shelby's suggestions were quickly implemented at AC's Thames Ditton plant, and the first car hit American roads by February 1962. Instead of simply putting a V8 in the engine compartment, the frame was additionally reinforced, and the transmission and suspension were also adapted to the more powerful engine. The Salisbury differential and the disc brakes of the Jaguar E-Type were fitted. A Borg Warner four-speed gearbox provided the power transmission. The track was widened, as were the fenders. This created the Cobra's typical slim but muscular-looking shape.
This 289 Cobra was delivered to Shelby in L. A. in 1963 by AC Cars Limited, England aboard the SS Amsteldyk. Used as a promotional vehicle for Ford in Florida until 1965, the car then began a racing career. Photos, historic car passes, and receipts of this period are at hand. The engine currently has 410 bhp and was built in Germany.
