The Shelby Cobra Daytona was a groundbreaking racing car that caused a sensation on the track in the 1960s. It was developed by renowned designer Peter Brock and built by Carroll Shelby. This outstanding car, based on its predecessor, the AC Cobra, was specifically designed for international motorsport and built to conquer Europe. The first generation was built from 1964 to 1965. The goal was to challenge and surpass the previously dominant Ferrari 250 GTO. The Shelby Cobra Daytona stood out for its aerodynamic body shape, implemented in a wind tunnel-optimized design. This enabled higher speeds and better stability on long straights, such as those found in Le Mans. Technically, the car was equipped with a powerful V8 engine producing about 385 horsepower and capable of reaching a top speed of over 300 km/h (186 mph).
The Shelby Cobra Daytona was equipped with a 4.7-liter V8 engine originally developed by Ford. Weighing about one ton, the car was not only fast but also agile. The racing cars had disc brakes on all four wheels and a precisely tuned suspension optimized for racing. The body design proved to be a milestone in aerodynamics. A special feature was the long, aerodynamic hood that minimized air resistance. Steel and aluminum were generously used to save weight while providing the necessary stability. The car was built on a ladder frame and featured independent suspension, ensuring excellent roadholding and driving dynamics. These technical features significantly contributed to the success of the Shelby Cobra Daytona in motorsport.
The Shelby Cobra Daytona achieved numerous successes in international motorsport, particularly in the FIA World Sportscar Championship. In 1965, the Shelby teams won the GT World Championship, a milestone in racing history. Among the drivers who piloted the Shelby Cobra Daytona to its victories were well-known names like Ken Miles and Bob Bondurant. These drivers played a major role in establishing the car's reputation as an unbeatable racing machine. The Shelby Cobra Daytona was particularly successful in endurance races, where its combination of speed, reliability, and driving dynamics shone.
In addition to Ken Miles and Bob Bondurant, there were other prominent drivers who led the Shelby Cobra Daytona to great victories. Dan Gurney and Phil Hill are two more names frequently mentioned in this context. Especially in endurance races, the car proved to be highly successful, with drivers contributing their skill and experience to achieve the best results possible. The Shelby Cobra Daytona was also known for its reliability, a crucial factor in races like the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
For model car collectors worldwide, the miniature model of the Shelby Cobra Daytona is a real highlight. This 1/18 scale model was manufactured by Shelby Collectibles and is part of the collection of Modelly member "BenzW110". The miniature model is made of die-cast material and impresses with its attention to detail and high-quality craftsmanship. The metallic blue paint with white stripes reflects the iconic design of the original. Notable are the many small details like sponsor decals, such as the Goodyear one, the tires, the chrome exhaust, and the detailed cockpit. The simulated rivet look on the rear window is also a remarkable detail that emphasizes the authenticity of this model. The model is perfect for collectors looking to add a standout piece to their collection.