1964 Shelby Cobra 289 CSX2197
For the Shelby Cobra enthusiast seeking perfection, we’re proud to offer CSX2197. This wonderful example delivers the performance, handling and excitement you’d expect from one of Carroll Shelby’s hot rod/sports-car hybrids, all in a package that’s been literally rebuilt from the ground up. Every nut, bolt and component has received careful attention, right down to the factory-supplied floor jack, knock-off hammer, tool kit and grease gun.
CSX2197, a red-over-black 1964 model, was delivered to Crater Lake Motors of Medford, OR on December 11, 1963. Its first owner, Mark C. Tower, took delivery of the car with a compliment of “Class A” accessories including chrome valve covers, luggage rack, radio, and white wall tires. Number 2197 spent many years on the West Coast before being acquired in 1981 by long-time Shelby Club director, Ken Eber of White Plains, NY. Its chain of ownership is well documented in the Shelby American World Registry.
The car changed hands again, eventually going to John McCann (Greenwood, IN) in May of 1982. At the time, 2197’s odometer showed just 9700 miles. Steve Posey purchased the car in the mid 80’s, then re-sold it to renowned Cobra restorer Bill Kemper. In 1987 Mr. Kemper put 2197 on the market with an asking price of $33,000. When it went unsold, he decided to disassemble the car and save it for what would someday be a long-term personal restoration project.
Mr. Kemper sent CSX2197 to the specialists at Baurle Auto Sport who, by 1990, had completed the chassis. From the ground up, the painstaking restoration was continued by Mr. Kemper. The results are absolutely stunning. There is possibly no finer example of a 289 Shelby Cobra anywhere. The fit, finish, interior and mechanicals are fabulous. A convertible top and tonneau are included and are also presented as new. Fully eligible for rallies and touring events both domestic and abroad, CSX2197 has been thoroughly tuned and tested by the team at Canepa Design to ensure it delivers performance to match its appearance.
