The original production of the Shelby Cobra, involving Carroll Shelby's direct collaboration, ceased in 1968.
The End of Original Shelby Cobra Production
The iconic Shelby Cobra, a high-performance Anglo-American sports car, had a relatively short but impactful initial production run. The collaboration between AC Cars (who produced the Ace body) and Carroll Shelby for the "Shelby Cobra" concluded in the late 1960s.
- Production Period: From 1961 to 1968, a total of only 998 original AC Cobras were built for the Shelby venture.
- Cessation of Collaboration: AC Cars stopped producing the Ace body in late 1968. Crucially, they continued to produce AC Cobras for Shelby until 1968. This marks the end of the direct "Shelby Cobra" production as a joint venture.
Breakdown of Original Shelby Cobra Units
The limited production numbers contribute to the legendary status and rarity of these classic cars. The models were primarily distinguished by their engines.
| Cobra Model | Units Built |
|---|---|
| 289 Cobras | 655 |
| 427 Cobras | 343 |
| Total Cobras | 998 |
The Legacy Continues: AC Cobra Production
While the specific "Shelby Cobra" production ended with the cessation of the partnership in 1968, AC Cars, the original manufacturer of the chassis, continued to produce the AC Cobra as a sole manufacturer. This continuation has extended until recent days, with various iterations and continuation models being produced, though these are distinct from the original cars directly produced under the Shelby collaboration.
