A 1966 AC Cobra 4.7-Liter Two-Seat Competition Hardtop Coupé with deep racing history will cross the block at Bonhams|Cars Goodwood Revival sale on September 13, where it could fetch as much as $2.7 million.
The Cobra, chassis No. CS 2131, is notable for its early origins and remarkable competition record. One of only five right-hand-drive chassis built before November 1963, it originally competed at the 1963 24 Hours of Le Mans, where drivers Ninian Sanderson and Peter Bolton secured a class win and seventh overall. The Cobra covered 2,592 miles at an average speed of 108 mph, hitting 160 mph on the Mulsanne Straight.
Following Le Mans, the car was campaigned by John Willment Automobiles Ltd. at circuits including Silverstone and Goodwood. A Nürburgring crash led to its restoration and rebirth as “13 COB” in 1966, beginning a long and successful second career. Under the ownership of Martin Colvill, the Cobra became a fixture in competition, achieving 12 overall victories and 44 class wins in more than 100 races.
Bonhams recently confirmed the car’s authenticity through forensic analysis, which verified the original CS 2131 stamp on the chassis. Today, it is fitted with a 4.7-liter Hi-Po V-8 producing 440 horsepower and wears the livery used during its time with the Bell & Colvill team.
The Cobra has been with its current owner since 2000 and has continued to appear in historic motorsport events, including the Le Mans Classic and Modena Centro Ore.
“This car embodies all that today’s discerning collector seeks—period originality, eligibility, long-term care, and race-winning pedigree,” said Mark Osborne, global director of motorsport for Bonhams|Cars.
Would you take this Cobra back to the track—or keep it as a crown jewel in a private collection?
