If you set your sights high, you will attain your dreams. So, what’s your dream car? Shelby Cobra? Alright, maybe be more realistic with your aim. What about an authentic Cobra tribute? That’s much more attainable and, believe it or not, you now have another Cobra to choose from because Shelby Legendary Cars has announced the limited-edition Shelby Cobra CSX2000 Tribute Series Roadster.
Unveiled during a private event at the Petersen Museum in Los Angeles on August 10, this tribute to Carroll Shelby will be limited to 10 examples.
“Carroll Shelby was one of the most influential people in the history of the automobile,” said Lance Stander, CEO of Shelby Legendary Cars. “Through his cars, racing team and driving career, Carroll became a catalyst for waves of innovation and his impact can still be felt by enthusiasts worldwide. We wanted to celebrate this charismatic and magnetic personality who truly changed the landscape with a car worthy of him.”
The original CSX2000 remained within the Shelby organization from the very beginning until 2016, when it sold for $13,750,000. It’s the very same 260-powered development mule that debuted at the 1962 New York Auto Show. CSX2000 is the missing link between the AC Ace and the production Shelby Cobra that would electrify the sports car world. It has been painted several colors over its lifetime because Carroll Shelby wanted to create the impression he had more than one Cobra for the press to observe because, for five months, it was the only one in the world. Sports Car Graphic was dutifully dazzled, stating, “We can safely say that it is one of the most impressive production sports cars we’ve ever driven.”
“This car project began in 2023 as a salute to the 100th anniversary of Carroll Shelby’s birth,” said Shayna Stander of Shelby Legendary Cars. “While intended to introduce the roadster late last year as part of the worldwide Carroll Shelby Centennial Celebration, it was too important to rush the hand-built aluminum car. We wanted the details to be perfect, which required even more time. The result was certainly worth the wait for a tribute true to the man himself.”
Each handmade roadster will be sold as a complete roller featuring a Shelby serial number (CSX2000-2009) and MSO from Shelby American. They will be configured for a small-block Ford V8 and a BorgWarner T10 four-speed, both of which will be installed by you or the shop of your choice (remember, this is part of your dream goal setting!). The hue, as well as the option of a roll bar, is also up to you.
“My grandfather, Carroll Shelby, revered the first Shelby Cobra (CSX2000), and what that car represented,” said Aaron Shelby, Board Member of Carroll Shelby International. “I’m honored that Carroll’s legacy will live on through this limited run of cars. Other than the patina on the original 1962 car, it’s virtually impossible to discern any differences between it and the Tribute Shelby Cobra roadster. It feels like I stepped into Dean Moon’s SoCal shop to watch Carroll and his band of hot rodders create an international performance icon.”
Of course, charting the path to your dream will not be complete without information on how to order one of the 10 Shelby Cobra CSX2000 Tribute Series Roadsters, so direct your inquiry to www.Shelbylegendarycars.com.
