A 1966 Shelby 427 Cobra Roadster, considered among the finest and most original examples of its kind, will cross the block at Mecum’s Indianapolis 2025 auction on Friday, May 16. The meticulously preserved and concours-restored roadster is expected to draw serious attention from collectors and historians alike.
Offered as Lot R422 and part of the prestigious Apex Collection, the Cobra boasts its original dual-quad 427 cubic-inch V8, Toploader 4-speed manual transmission, and rear end — a remarkably intact drivetrain for a car that defined American muscle in the 1960s. Even more remarkable is that the car retains its original, unmodified aluminum body and chassis, distinguishing it from many Cobras that were raced, restored, or modified over the decades.
Only about 155 true 427-powered Street Cobras were built by Shelby American, and fewer than 100 were delivered with the high-performance dual four-barrel carburetor setup. This example, finished in its factory-correct red over black leather interior, is one of those elite few.
The car shows just 14,671 miles on the odometer and has had only two private owners from new through 2023. It underwent a no-expense-spared concours restoration by Legendary Motorcar Company — a name synonymous with world-class automotive restorations. Despite the restoration, it still features its factory-original leather seats, adding to its authenticity.
Listed in the Shelby Registry, this Cobra includes a full set of accessories: tool roll, jack, grease gun, manuals, and soft top. According to Mecum, it is among the rarest surviving Cobras to retain its original, unaltered components while also benefiting from expert restoration — a combination that places it among the finest 427 Cobras to ever come to public sale.
With collector interest in original-specification Cobras at an all-time high, this street-spec Shelby may set a new benchmark when it crosses the block.
This vehicle is selling at Dana Mecum’s 38th Original Spring Classic May 9-17. Watch the action in person or on ESPN+. With 3,000 classic and collectors vehicles for sale, there’s a great selection!