1965 Other Makes / Models - 1965 Shelby Cobra 427 CSX 4179 Roadster Challenge Racer

Description

Not only has Carroll Shelby resurrected the ultimate Cobra through the “Continuation” series, the racing Cobra is back as well, albeit in strictly limited numbers. Based on the CSX4000 series Cobra, the Shelby Challenge Racer incorporates extensive modifications designed to improve its durability, strength and safety. Each Shelby Cobra Challenge car is built on a fully triangulated SCCA-certified chassis and powered by a 351 Ford Windsor engine (stroked to 427) rated at a minimum 450 horsepower.

The CSX4179 is the first of six cars specially built for the SCCA’s Cobra Challenge Series. Hidden beneath the Canary Yellow fiberglass body is a 500-horsepower 351 Windsor-based Ford engine equipped with Aluminum heads, a high-volume Holley 830 carburetor, Aviad dry sump oiling system and a custom build side-dump exhaust headers. Power is delivered through a Tilton Engineering magnesium driveline setup via a Jerico 4-speed manual transmission. Engine and differential oil coolers assure component longevity, as does the Fluidyne aluminum radiator.

Rolling on fourteen-inch reproduction Halibrand knock-off wheels and Goodyear Stock Car Special racing slicks, the chassis is Shelby Automobiles’ upgraded and modernized version of the original 427 unit. The independent coil-over shock suspension and tubular sway bars are fully adjustable to suit track conditions, as are the upper control arms at all four corners. Huge heavy-duty competition four-wheel disc brakes provide sure-footed stopping power.

Besides the SCCA-approved cage, safety features include the trunk-mounted ATL fuel cell, Simpson five-point harness, and a Woodward collapsible steering column with detachable wheel. An onboard Halon fire protection system is central to driver safety.

The car has been raced at such venues as Virginia International Raceway, Road America, Charlotte, Hallet, Miller Motorsports Park, Las Vegas Motor Speedway, Nashville Speedway, and Autobahn Raceway.

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