Description:
The 1965 Shelby Cobra CSX4991 you’ve described is an exceptional example of a CSX 4000 Series continuation Cobra, blending classic Shelby heritage with modern engineering refinements. Here’s a breakdown of why this car is a standout:
Key Highlights:
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Ultra-Low Mileage & Single Ownership
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Only 287 miles from new, sold by the original owner.
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Essentially a “new” vintage-style Cobra, preserved in as-delivered condition.
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Authenticity & Documentation
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Documented in the Shelby Registry with a Certificate of Authenticity signed by Carroll Shelby.
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Part of the limited CSX 4000 Series (only 650 produced), making it a future collectible.
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Performance & Engineering
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427ci (7.0L) Shelby FE V8 – The legendary big-block, built for power and torque.
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Tremec TKO 5-speed manual – Modern reliability with classic driving engagement.
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Independent suspension, rack-and-pinion steering, Baer Racing brakes – Enhanced handling and safety over the 1960s original.
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Dana 44 rear end, Salisbury differential, oil cooler, aluminum radiator – Upgrades for durability and cooling.
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Racing-Inspired Design
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Rosso F1 Red with Wimbledon White Le Mans stripes – Iconic Shelby livery.
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15″ aluminum pin-drive wheels with knock-offs, chrome roll bar, side exhaust – Faithful to the racing Cobra aesthetic.
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Shelby S/C gauges, wood steering wheel, leather seats – Vintage touches with improved comfort.
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Modern Safety & Reliability
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Reinforced steel chassis and better alloys than the original.
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Upgraded heat insulation, racing seat belts, and cooling systems for drivability.
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Why This Cobra is Special:
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Continuation models (CSX 4000 Series) are highly sought after, as they combine the raw appeal of the original with refined mechanics.
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Extremely low production (650 units) ensures exclusivity.
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Museum-quality condition with near-zero miles—ideal for collectors or investors.
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Prices for well-documented, low-mileage Cobras continue to rise, making this a sound investment.
Ideal Buyer:
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A Shelby enthusiast seeking a turnkey, drivable classic without vintage reliability concerns.
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A collector looking for a numbered, limited-edition Cobra with full documentation.
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An investor banking on the appreciation of continuation models (similar to Shelby’s own CSX 3000 and 2000 series cars, which command high prices).
Final Verdict:
This CSX4991 is a rare opportunity to own a pristine, well-optioned Cobra that’s essentially new. With its matching numbers, legendary 427 powerplant, and factory upgrades, it’s a blue-chip Shelby that’s ready to drive or display. Given the market trajectory for continuation Cobras, this is a highly collectible piece of automotive history.
