The AC Cobra, also known as the Shelby Cobra, was the result of a British-American collaboration. AC Cars of Britain received a letter from legendary American racer and tuner Carroll Shelby asking whether they could build him a car modified to accept a V8 engine, and they accepted. The result was the Shelby Cobra, a fearsome beast that few could ever tame, a car that commanded respect from many. With less than a thousand original Cobras made, finding one isn't easy. That's why the replica market is thriving, with examples such as this 1964 Shelby Cobra Replica By Shell Valley that we've got for sale right now. With just 200 miles on the motor, the current owner reports the car to be titled as a 2000 model-year vehicle and built by Shell Valley. Let's investigate what it offers.

Exterior and Interior

The squat stance of a Cobra is always a sight to behold, whether it's an original or a replica done right. This 1964 Shelby Cobra Replica By Shell Valley belongs to the latter category and shimmers in the sunlight, with rays dancing off its lovely red paint job. You'll also note the tan convertible top and side windows that offer better weather protection than the original ever could. Side exhausts emit all the noise in the world to accompany the blistering pace that this car can provide, while dual roll bars add protection and structural integrity. And yes, it's road legal, with headlamps, turn signals, windshield wipers, and more. There's also a locking gas cap. Inside, there's a snug cabin for two occupants with five-point harnesses, although there's very little for the passenger to do other than buckle up, hold on, and try not to scream. There's a fire extinguisher in the cabin, as every race car should have. The driver grips a thin wood-rimmed steering wheel and faces a set of white-faced Ford-branded gauges that communicate all aspects of the car's performance and health. Other than a heater, there's very little else in the way of creature comforts.

Engine

Sporting a Pro Dart Ford V8 under the hood with only 200 miles on the engine, this 1964 Shelby Cobra Replica By Shell Valley is endowed with some serious power. The current owner claims that the engine has been dyno tested to produce 620hp and reports that the dyno sheet plus video are available to back up the claim. The drive is sent to the rear wheels via a 5-speed Tremec manual transmission and a 9-inch Ford rear end. The Pro Dart aluminum sprint car engine is endowed with 225cfm C&C ported headers and is said to have been built by Al Parker Race Engines in Newton, Iowa.