The 1964 Shelby 289 Cobra represents the pinnacle of Carroll Shelby’s vision, lightweight British design fused with raw American power. Chassis CSX 2208 is one of just 453 street 289 Cobras produced and one of the most authentic survivors, finished in its original Vineyard Green over Saddle leather trim. Restored by the specialists at Classic MotorSports of Northville, Michigan, this Cobra exemplifies the heritage and craftsmanship that make Shelby’s creations timeless icons.
The Birth of a Shelby Icon
By the early 1960s, Carroll Shelby had already achieved global recognition as a racing driver. Yet, he sought something greater, a car bearing his own name that could dominate both road and track. His opportunity came with the AC Ace, a lightweight British sports car known for its agility and balance. Shelby’s idea was simple but revolutionary: replace the Ace’s modest engine with Ford’s V-8 power.
Ford eagerly supported the project, supplying 260-cubic-inch V-8 engines. When the Cobra debuted at the 1962 New York Motor Show, it stunned enthusiasts with its aggressive stance and thrilling performance. The car’s perfect blend of British craftsmanship and American horsepower defined a new era in sports car engineering.
The Evolution of the 289 Cobra
A year later, the Mk II version arrived, equipped with rack-and-pinion steering and a potent 289-cubic-inch V-8. With a top speed of 130 mph and 0–60 mph acceleration in under six seconds, the 1964 Shelby 289 Cobra became a true performance benchmark. It not only cemented Shelby’s reputation but also shaped America’s identity in global motorsport.
The Story of CSX 2208
Chassis CSX 2208 left AC Cars in England in late 1963, bound for Los Angeles aboard the SS Loch Loyal. It received its engine and chassis modifications at Shelby American before being delivered to Broad Motors of Philadelphia on January 8, 1964. Ordered in the seldom-seen color of Vineyard Green with Saddle leather, it was equipped with aluminum valve covers, chrome wire wheels, and a luggage rack, priced at $5,584.05.
The first owner, a Philadelphia art collector, soon sold it to Stanley Spritzler, who then passed it on to Lee Weinstein of New Jersey in 1968. Weinstein would cherish CSX 2208 for the next 47 years, driving and maintaining it faithfully through the decades. His long-term care preserved the Cobra’s originality and legacy.
The Restoration by Classic MotorSports
After changing hands in 2015, CSX 2208 underwent a meticulous three-year restoration by Classic MotorSports in Northville, Michigan. The car’s aluminum bodywork was refinished by Colour Restoration in Colorado, where over 300 hours of precision sanding and preparation led to a flawless respray in its factory Vineyard Green hue. The interior was re-trimmed in new Saddle leather, matching the original specification perfectly.
Importantly, CSX 2208 retained its matching-numbers chassis and original hood and trunk latches, confirming its authenticity. The result is a concours-level restoration that respects every detail of the Cobra’s factory configuration.
Power, Engine Specs, and Performance
Under the hood lies the legendary 289-cubic-inch Ford V-8, an engine that delivers an intoxicating mix of torque and sound. Producing around 271 horsepower, it catapults the lightweight roadster from 0 to 60 mph in under six seconds. The rack-and-pinion steering enhances precision, while the car’s minimal weight ensures thrilling agility on the open road.
In July 2025, renowned specialist Tom Yang of Hollowville, New York, performed a detailed service that included a full inspection, fluid change, and clutch master cylinder replacement, ensuring this Cobra remains road-ready for decades to come.
A Lifetime of Provenance
CSX 2208’s documentation includes Lee Weinstein’s original care notebook, restoration records, receipts, and period service invoices. A rare AC Cobra chassis instruction manual accompanies the car, further validating its provenance. Such comprehensive history is exceedingly uncommon, marking this example as one of the most significant surviving 289 Cobras.
Summary
The 1964 Shelby 289 Cobra CSX 2208 is more than a car, it’s a living artifact of American motorsport heritage. Restored by Classic MotorSports and finished in its original Vineyard Green, it embodies Carroll Shelby’s vision of uncompromised performance and timeless style. With matching numbers, authentic provenance, and a 47-year single ownership legacy, CSX 2208 stands as one of the finest examples of Shelby’s most celebrated creation.
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Source & Details: rmsothebys.com
