Shelby Celebrates Golden Anniversary of F1A Championship with New Models

Carroll Shelby International Inc.'s Shelby American unit is launching a new Cobra Daytona Coupe to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the company's first Formula One manufacturer's title. Two versions aluminum and fiberglass will be available. Combined output will be limited to 50 cars.

The anniversary cars are built using the blueprints and measurements for the 1965 model, including leaf springs and a tubular chassis design. But Shelby says the new Daytona Coupes will have a stronger frame and incorporate disc brakes and other modern safety and performance features.

The interior will include a wood-rimmed steering wheel and black leather upholstery. The cars will be delivered as a rolling chassis without an engine. Buyers can add an engine on their own or opt for a 289-cu-inch mill from Shelby Engine Co.

The fiberglass anniversary model starts at $180,000, and the aluminum version will go for $350,000. By comparison, the six remaining original Daytona Coupes are each valued at several million dollars.