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1964 Shelby Cobra 427 prototype to be auctioned by RM in JanuaryJanuary
is just a short few weeks away, and along with the Detroit Auto Show,
that means classic car auctions to us automotive types. The televised
circus of Barrett-Jackson and the more reserved auction houses of Russo
and Steele and RM will be hoping to empty the pockets of those
automotive aficionados who still have money left to burn after more
than a year of tough economic times.
With most of the lists of
cars being finalized for each auction, the highlight of the weekend
will likely be a 1964 Shelby Cobra 427 that will be offered to the
highest bidder at RM's sale at the Biltmore Resort & Spa in
Phoenix, Arizona. While just about any Cobra merits attention, this
particular one is the actual prototype for the legendary 427 Cobras.
Nicknamed the "Flip-Top" for its clam shell design, the car actually
competed at tracks like Riverside, Sebring, and Nassau, and has an
extensive vintage racing history.
RM doesn't provide an
estimate, but we wouldn't be surprised to see the final bid easily
reach seven figures. You can read a short description of the car after
the jump or browse the high-res gallery below provided by RM.
PRESS RELEASE:
Blenheim,
ON (December 4, 2009) − The one-of-a-kind 1964 Shelby Cobra 427
Prototype s/n CSX 2196, nicknamed "The Flip-top" for its unique clam
shell design, is set to cross the block at RM's Automobiles of Arizona
event at the Biltmore Resort and Spa in Phoenix on January 22.
Its
design, build, development and racing were spearheaded by legendary
racing driver Ken Miles and after months of testing and modifications,
2196 became the only prototype produced for the famed 427 Cobras that
followed. It was raced in period at Riverside, Sebring and Nassau.
Over
the years, 2196 has competed in many of the world's historic races
including Laguna Seca, Monterey Historics and Goodwood Festival of
Speed. Today, the well-documented Flip-top sports its original livery
of Guardman Blue with white stripes and black interior, and is
unquestionably one of the most desirable Shelby Cobras ever built.
(Estimate: Available upon request)
"The 2010 Arizona auction
presents one of RM's most diverse line-ups of automobiles ever offered
at the luxurious Biltmore Resort & Spa, ranging from historically
significant Shelby Cobras to an unprecedented selection of important
concept cars," said Ian Kelleher, President and Chief Operating
Officer, RM Auctions. "Every facet of collector cars is represented at
this year's event with the schedule being extended to two days for a
British-themed Thursday evening sale."
Source: Auto Blog
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