1964 Cobra 289 FIA Roadster

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The AC Cobra 289 FIA Roadster 1964, otherwise known as the Shelby Cobra, is a legendary sports car that has held the hearts of petrol heads for decades. This vehicle is a true masterpiece in terms of both form and function, with its sleek lines and powerful engineering. At its core lies a 4.7-liter Ford V8 engine that produces a whopping 271 horsepower and 312 lb-ft of torque. This potent powertrain is paired with a four-speed manual transmission, which delivers lightning-fast gear shifts and exceptional control over every drive.

In terms of handling, the AC Cobra 289 FIA Roadster 1964 is a true driver's car. Its lightweight body is crafted from aluminum, which not only reduces overall weight but also provides incredible stiffness for exceptional handling. As for the suspension, the car features an adjustable coil-over setup on all four corners. This allows the driver to fine-tune the car's handling characteristics to their liking, whether that be for track use or road driving. The braking system is also top-notch, with four-wheel disc brakes providing impressive stopping power.

Inside the car, the focus is on simplicity and performance. The cockpit is stripped down to only the essentials, with minimal upholstery and no luxuries to speak of. This creates a focused driving environment that allows the driver to focus solely on the road ahead. The steering wheel is smaller than average, which provides exceptional grip and feedback for a more engaging driving experience. The gauge cluster is also designed for simplicity, with just the essential information on display.

Overall, the AC Cobra 289 FIA Roadster 1964 is a true masterpiece of engineering. It's a raw, visceral driving machine that is sure to put a smile on the face of any enthusiast. Its stunning design, potent powertrain, and exceptional handling make it a true icon of the sports car world. Whether you're a collector, a track day enthusiast, or just someone who loves to drive, the AC Cobra 289 FIA Roadster 1964 is a must-have addition to any garage.

Milestones

- 1961: Carroll Shelby begins creating the AC Cobra by fitting a Ford V8 engine into an AC Ace sports car - 1962: Shelby and his team create the 289 Cobra, which features a 4.7-liter V8 engine - 1963: AC Cobra 289 FIA Roadster is introduced and gains immediately popularity for its sleek design and impressive performance on the track - 1964: AC Cobra 289 FIA Roadster wins its class at the 24 Hours of Le Mans endurance race - 1965: Shelby releases the 427 Cobra with a larger engine, but the 289 FIA Roadster remains a popular choice among racers and collectors - 1966: Production of the AC Cobra 289 FIA Roadster ends, with only 51 units produced in total - 1998: Shelby American, Inc. is given permission by Carroll Shelby and AC Cars to produce continuation models of the 289 FIA Roadster, offering collectors a chance to purchase a brand-new version of the iconic car.

Technical

- Engine: Ford 289 cubic inch (4.7L) V8 - Horsepower: Approximately 271 hp - Transmission: 4-speed manual - Suspension: Independent front suspension with coil springs, dual A-arms and anti-roll bar; live rear axle with coil springs and radius arms - Brakes: Disc brakes on all four wheels - Steering: Rack and pinion - Wheels: 15 inch Halibrand knock-off magnesium wheels - Tires: 215/70R15 Goodyear Eagle GT radial tires - Body material: Fiberglass reinforced plastic (GRP) - Top speed: Approximately 140 mph (225 km/h) - 0-60 mph time: Approximately 5 seconds - Weight: Approximately 2,200 pounds (1,000 kg) - Fuel capacity: 17 gallons (64.35 liters) - Length: 157 inches (3,988 mm) - Width: 64 inches (1,626 mm) - Height: 48 inches (1,219 mm)