The Shelby Cobra 427 S/C is an iconic American car from the 1960s, created through a collaboration between American racing driver and entrepreneur Carroll Shelby and British sports car company AC Cars. Originally intended as a racing car, it later transformed into a street-legal vehicle due to changes in homologation regulations. The car’s impressive specs, such as the 7.0-liter V8 engine producing 425 horsepower, and its lightweight of approximately 1,100 kilograms (2,425 pounds) delivered remarkable acceleration and speed.
At the core of the Shelby Cobra 427 S/C lies its powerful V8 engine, co-designed by Ford engineers John Wyer and Roy Salvadori. The combination of a robust chassis and a lightweight aluminum body design made it one of the fastest and most coveted sports cars of its time. Other notable technical features include independent front and rear suspension, disc brakes on all four wheels, and an aerodynamically optimized body. The Shelby Cobra 427 S/C excelled in performance and boasted a timeless design that remains coveted even decades later.
The model car of the Shelby Cobra 427 S/C shown here in the 1/18 scale, manufactured by Kyosho, is an excellent example of the detail accuracy and quality cherished by collectors worldwide. Made of diecast material, the model not only has a realistic weight and feel but also ensures high durability. The model's paintwork reflects the classic racing car appearance with a deep blue base color and white racing stripes. The interior is faithfully recreated, showcasing the typical steering wheel and seats of the original. Particularly striking are the Goodyear tires with distinctive lettering and the detailed rims that give the model an authentic look. Belonging to the collection of Modelly member "neophyte1410," this miniature is an exclusive collector's item for enthusiasts.
In 1965, when the Shelby Cobra 427 S/C was first built, several significant events unfolded, offering insights into the era. The Beatles released the single "Yesterday," and Martin Luther King Jr. successfully led the march from Selma to Montgomery in Alabama, a pivotal moment in the American civil rights movement. Additionally, in 1965, NASA launched the Gemini IV space program, during which astronaut Ed White conducted the first American spacewalk. These events contextualize the time and cultural significance of when the Shelby Cobra 427 S/C emerged, emphasizing its value and timelessness for collectors and car enthusiasts.