Many factors raise a car to collectible status: its manufacturing date and process, equipment, and even its ownership history. The 1963 Shelby 289 Cobra is a prime example, a masterpiece of British and American engineering, bearing the signature of a legendary automotive figure.
Already a coveted asset regardless of condition or provenance, this particular Cobra’s value skyrockets due to its association with Steve McQueen. The iconic actor, renowned for his love of automobiles, drove this Mark II Cobra, chassis number CSX2161, for approximately two years beginning in 1965, despite not being the official owner.
This meticulously preserved example retains its original tubular steel chassis, bodywork, and 289 cubic-inch engine, coupled with a four-speed manual gearbox. A rare piece of automotive history is set to cross the auction block in Monterey, California.
This 1963 Shelby Cobra once belonged to famed film composer Elmer Bernstein, but its true claim to fame is the time it spent behind the wheel with Hollywood legend Steve McQueen.
Originally boasting a silver exterior and a red interior, the Cobra was adorned with the Class A Accessories package, adding a touch of chrome with elements like the air cleaner and valve covers. The car’s European adventure began in 2003, marked by a color change to black and the addition of a roll bar for a more aggressive look.
It returned to the US in 2006, carrying over 17,000 miles of history. Despite the mileage, the Cobra’s true value lies in its connection to McQueen, a fact reflected in Mecum’s estimated selling price of $1.25 million to $1.5 million. All eyes will be on the auction in mid-August to see this piece of automotive royalty find a new home.
