The Shelby Cobra 289, a legendary sports car and an icon of American automotive engineering, was developed by Carroll Shelby in collaboration with AC Cars in the early 1960s. Originally designed as a lightweight, high-performance roadster, the Cobra 289 quickly captured the hearts of motorsport enthusiasts worldwide. The vehicle, produced from 1962 to 1967, is based on the British AC Ace and was equipped with a powerful Ford V8 engine. The combination of the lightweight chassis and the American engine resulted in an impressive power-to-weight ratio, contributing to its racing dominance.
The Cobra 289 is powered by a 4.7-liter V8 engine that produced approximately 271 horsepower (275 PS). The car could reach a top speed of around 240 km/h (149 mph) and accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) in just under 5 seconds. Noteworthy technical features included disc brakes on all four wheels and a large cooling system that kept the performance stable even under extreme conditions. The chassis was tuned to provide the highest agility and precision on both the road and the race track. The Cobra 289 was an evolution of the Shelby Cobra 260, which had a slightly smaller engine but shared similar design features.
The Shelby Cobra 289 left an indelible mark in motorsport history. Particularly notable was its success at the 24 Hours of Le Mans and other significant endurance races. The car was driven by famous racers such as Ken Miles, Dan Gurney, and Bob Bondurant, all of whom made crucial contributions to its numerous victories. In the 1963 season, the Cobra 289 achieved numerous successes in the SCCA and at international events, showcasing the superiority of its design.
In 1964, the Cobra 289 scored significant wins in the FIA GT Championship, including the prestigious Le Mans race where it claimed first place in its class. Here, the car proved itself as one of the most enduring and performance-oriented models of its time. All these triumphs helped solidify the reputation of the Shelby Cobra 289 in motorsport and establish it as a symbol of speed and prowess.
The 1/12 scale model of the Shelby Cobra 289, meticulously crafted using Diecast materials by GMP, is a detailed collector's piece that accurately captures the essential features of the original. From the visual standpoint alone, such as the precise reproduction of body shapes and components, this model car is a rewarding collectible.
Special attention should be given to the paint job and decoration of the model. The model car is finished in a glossy black color and bears the distinctive number 15 on the doors and hood. The yellow accent stripes along the fenders and the meticulously replicated sponsor and manufacturer logos of Goodyear and Purolator add an authentic racing look to the model. This model, found in the collection of Modelly member "flyman," also showcases the authentic spoked wheels with Goodyear tires, further enhancing its accuracy.
The designers and engineers involved in the Shelby Cobra 289 brought their expertise in various areas. Carroll Shelby, the renowned American racer and constructor, led the project alongside Ken Miles, who served as the development driver. The use of aluminum in the body and the targeted suspension tuning set the Cobra 289 apart. These elements significantly contributed to its performance and reliability on the racetrack.
The combination of a British chassis and American engine technology created a perfect synergy that set standards in both technical and aesthetic aspects. The car's success on the track and on the road was supported by innovative technological advancements, such as weight reduction and improved aerodynamics.
The miniature Shelby Cobra 289 is an impressive model that captures every square inch of the original. The detailing of this model goes down to the smallest detail, including the replication of the cockpit with steering wheel, instruments, and gear lever. Many of these elements are movable, giving the model a realistic and dynamic presence.
A standout feature of this model is the reproduction of the engine under the hood, which can be opened to reveal the intricate V8 engine replica. This 1/12 scale model by GMP is a true collector's piece and a must-have for any classic racing car enthusiast. The precise craftsmanship and attention to detail make it a centerpiece in the collection of Modelly member "flyman".