The iconic 1964 Shelby Cobra 289 Mark II is considered one of the most celebrated sports cars of all time. This highly coveted vehicle is now being auctioned after decades of ownership.
In this blog post, we will delve into the illustrious history and key details of this Shelby Cobra that is up for sale. From its previous owners to technical specifications, keep reading to learn everything about this collectible classic.
RM Sotheby’s is set to auction off the 1964 Shelby 289 Cobra, famously known as the “Snake Charmer.” This Cobra was owned by legendary musician Hank Williams for nearly 60 years in a single-owner collection.
Some noteworthy details about this collectible include it retaining original numbers-matching body and engine with an unrestored build sheet. Williams was a decorated WWII hero and renowned jazz artist who purchased the car in 1965.
He customized the Cobra with add-ons like a removable hardtop and raced it in over 400 events. Williams’ well-documented racing career and friendship with Carroll Shelby make this an important piece of automotive history. The auction is estimated to start at an upon-request price and includes over 260 trophies and memorabilia accumulated over Williams’ ownership.
This auction offers car enthusiasts a unique chance to own this piece of history associated with Hank Williams and his beloved “Snake Charmer” Cobra.
Hank Williams had a decorated career in racing the “Snake Charmer” Cobra in over 400 events across the West Coast starting in 1965. His racing success allowed Williams to develop a close friendship with famed Shelby designer Carroll Shelby.
The two racers often collaborated at Shelby American Automobile Club (SAAC) events over the decades. Williams meticulously tracked the Cobra’s racing history and his partnership with Shelby in over 260 trophies coming with the sale of the vehicle. Documentation provides a window into the acclaimed musician’s passionate involvement in the sport for nearly sixty years.
Photos also showcase Williams repping Shelby’s team attire at competitions. The racing heritage makes this Cobra an iconic part of both automotive and music history.
Records show unmatched care by Williams to preserve the Cobra’s originality. Inspections find the vehicle retains approximately 87% of its first parts. This includes the numbers-matching 289ci V8 engine and body that arrived from the factory in 1964.
Over its lifespan, Williams performed only minor tune-ups and repairs to keep the “Snake Charmer” in showroom condition for decades of club events and car shows. After spending 2 years in an automotive museum, the Cobra still boasted its unique Silver Mink paint and Naugahyde interior applied by Williams in the 1960s.
Bidders can trust the vehicle’s authenticity, which is rare for a survivor sports car of this caliber. Extensive documentation and the original build sheet further prove this 64 Cobra’s origin story and single caring owner.
A huge collection of memorabilia is included with the auction of the Hank Williams Cobra. Over 260 trophies earned at events with SAAC and other clubs showcase the vehicle’s successful racing history. Original ownership documentation and sales records prove this Cobra’s inception.
Also included is Williams’ iconic racing jacket and Shelby team shirt, presenting buyers with a tangible link to the previous celebrity owner. Other period materials such as photos, invoices, and awards cement this Cobra’s important place in both automotive and music history.
The extensive memorabilia package provides not only historical insights but also extensive displays for any car collector.
Another ’64 Shelby Cobra 289 Mark II is on the market, this time in North Salem, New York. Starting with AC Cars in the UK records detail it’s shipping to Illinois in 1964. The Cobra has since changed hands among Midwest owners and spent over two decades in New Hampshire.
In 2022, it received a thorough mechanical refurbishment by a renowned shop. All major drivetrain and suspension components were rebuilt or replaced with high-quality parts to strict original specifications. Cosmetic upgrades include a repaint, maintaining its distinctive blue and white stripe scheme.
Sold with supporting documentation of its provenance and maintenance, this presents collectors with a highly documented example of the hallowed 289 just refreshed to matching concour standards. Its performance offerings and historical integrity make it a worthy successor to continue the legacy of 1960s Shelby racing.
The 1964 Shelby Cobra 289 is considered the primary production model, and around 528 Mark II variants were manufactured by AC Cars and Shelby American from 1963 to 1965. Key specifications include a 4.7-liter V8 engine producing over 306hp and paired with a 4-speed manual transmission.
These utilized an upgraded rack-and-pinion steering setup over earlier 260ci Mark I cars. In 1965, the Mark III variant was introduced for the 1966 model year with more power in mind.
Featuring a thicker chassis to support larger engines like the 7.0-liter 427, wider bodywork, and extended wheel arches distinguished the definitive Mark III look. Approximately 150 of the more muscular Mark IIIs were produced through 1967 before Ford ended exports.
Both are highly sought after among collectors today for their ideal blend of European handling and American muscle.
The 1964 Shelby Cobra 289 Mark II coupe available here presents a seminal piece of history from Carroll Shelby’s legendary sports car. With documented single ownership, rare preservation of its numbers-matching components, and recent recommissioning, this investment-grade ‘Cobra offers the chance to take the reins of an icon.
Likewise, the Hank Williams “Snake Charmer” represents the spirit of motorsport, music, and admiration that has enshrined Cobras in culture for generations. Their offerings present distinct opportunities to participate in automotive royalty for the qualified collector.