Shelby celebrates the Daytona Coupe’s 1965 world championship with a limited production run

Shelby celebrates the Daytona Coupe’s 1965 world championship with a limited production run

In 1965, the Shelby Daytona Cobra Coupe dominated the over 2-liter category of the FIA’s International Championship for GT Manufacturers, posting enough class wins to clinch the title on July 4, after 13 of 20 races. Five decades on, Shelby American will pay tribute to this championship with a limited run of 50 Shelby Daytona Cobra Coupes, available with the buyer’s choice of fiberglass or aluminum bodies.

Only six original Shelby Daytona Coupes were constructed, which puts them beyond the reach of most enthusiasts. Several manufacturers have constructed replica cars over the years, but to date Shelby American has not produced an aluminum-bodied Daytona Cobra Coupe with a continuation serial number. That changes with this limited run of fifty cars (which counts both aluminum and fiberglass-bodied variants).

The fiberglass Shelby Daytona Cobra Coupe.

Of the two, the aluminum Daytona is closest in concept and execution to the original cars, and will be built from original measurements and original blueprints. Like the cars built in 1964 and ’65, it will utilize a tube steel frame, a transverse leaf spring rear suspension, and even a 35-gallon fuel tank, though certain components have been upgraded to more modern specifications. The frame is said to be stronger than the original, and the four-wheel disc brakes are four-piston units sourced from Wilwood.

Inside, the sole concession to luxury in the aluminum-bodied cars is leather seating. Air conditioning is not available, nor is power steering or power windows. Heat shields in the foot box area should make the car tolerable for track day driving, and a Halon fire suppression system ensures that one’s investment is protected under the worst of circumstances. Those seeking a bit more civility can take comfort in knowing that sound deadening and heat abatement are available options, as is paint (in Guardsman Blue with Wimbledon White stripes and meatballs, of course). Those seeking the ultimate in weight savings, however, can opt for a polished aluminum exterior.