1965 Shelby Cobra CSX4000 Series Roadster

The Apex Collection · Lot F152

1965 Shelby Cobra CSX4000 Series Roadster

Sold for$990,000
Mecum Indy 2025Crossed the block 2025-05-16Mecum lot page →

1 of 2 Known Hand-Formed Polished Copper Body Show Cars, FE 427 CI V-8, 5-Speed, Only 218 Miles

Highlights

  • 1 of 2 known hand-formed Polished Copper body Show Cars
  • Used to display the unbelievable craftsmanship of the CSX4000 alloy body
  • Shelby built FE 427 CI side oiler crate engine producing 550 HP
  • Tremec 5-speed manual transmission
  • Contrasting brushed stripes
  • Rare stainless steel chassis
  • Stainless steel side pipes
  • Chrome roll bar
  • Halibrand-style knock-off wheels
  • Goodyear billboard tires
  • A unique interpretation of the legendary Shelby 427 S/C cobra
  • Only 218 miles from new
  • Complete with original Shelby MSO

Specification

Year
1965
Make
Shelby
Model
Cobra
Exterior
Copper
Interior
Black
Transmission
5-Speed Manual
Odometer
218 miles
Lot
F152

The Story

Few, if any, cars of the 20th century inspire more passion than the famed Shelby Cobra, a name that has always been synonymous with racing domination since its introduction in 1962. Its successor, the Cobra 427 introduced in 1965, has fueled the dreams of generations of enthusiasts as the ultimate iteration of Carroll Shelby’s creation. The result of the enduring popularity of the Shelby Cobra, most original examples have become cherished by collectors and have subsequently become million-dollar cars that are out of reach for most enthusiasts.

Shelby created the CSX4000 Series 427 S/C Cobras, which are everything the original models were and more. The authenticity of each vehicle is documented by Shelby CSX numbers and a manufacturer's Statement of Origin (MSO) from Shelby Automobiles signed by Carroll Shelby himself.

This CSX4000 Cobra is truly a unique example with a hand-formed copper body made up of 17 individual panels that have been shaped using traditional tools and then assembled together—an astonishing feat of workmanship. The high-gloss, polished copper body is complemented with a famous pair of LeMans stripes, which are brushed to offset them from the glistening body. Additionally unique to this example is the super rare stainless steel chassis, which shows beautifully.

Powering this copper Cobra is a Shelby FE 427 side-oiler V-8 crate engine that produces a reported 550 HP and 580 lb-ft of torque and is backed by a Tremec 5-speed manual transmission. Additional options include stainless steel side pipes, a chrome roll bar and Halibrand wheels wrapped in Goodyear Billboard tires. Since new, it has traveled a mere 218 miles and remains in collector-quality condition. The ultimate showpiece for any collection, this stunning copper-bodied Cobra is sure to grab the attention of everyone in the room.

The Films

Photography · 57 frames