Unlock the Legend: Will the Ultra-Rare Shelby Cobra Dragonsnake Shatter Auction Records with a $1.7M Bid?

Imagine a car so rare and iconic that its appearance at auction threatens to break the internet among automotive enthusiasts and collectors alike. The 1965 Shelby Cobra, known among the elite circles as the Dragonsnake Stage III, is poised to do just that. With its eye-watering estimate of $1.7 million, this car isn't just any collector's item; it's a piece of American racing history, destined to turn heads and open wallets.

Carroll Shelby's creations have always been more than cars; they are symbols of American ingenuity and racing heritage. The Cobra, taking its roots from the British AC Cobra, was Shelby's crowning achievement. But within the Cobra lineage, the Dragonsnake variant stands in a league of its own. Built specifically for drag racing, the Dragonsnake Cobras were the nightmare of the quarter-mile strip in the '60s, with this particular 289 Dragonsnake being one of only five factory-built specimens.

This isn’t just any 289 Dragonsnake, however. It is the world's only factory Stage III model built to a customer's spec. Such exclusivity adds layers to its legend, charting a course from its brief but glorious racing career, through a series of storied custodians, to its current standing as a pristine, restored masterpiece awaiting a new owner at the upcoming Mecum Auction.

The 1965 summer saw this Dragonsnake tearing up drag strips, embodying performance and victory. Its journey took it from spirited runs at the York U.S. 30 Drag-O-Way to the prestigious asphalt of the Indianapolis Nationals. However, the thrill of competition was short-lived, with retirement coming soon after its debut season. What followed was a continuous passage through the hands of various owners, each adding to the car's lore and occasionally modifying its livery and spec.

Today, it stands in its original glory, resplendent in yellow, a testament to meticulous restoration using authentic, period-correct parts. The car flaunts a 289ci engine mated to a four-speed manual gearbox, boosted by a Stage III setup featuring quadruple Weber carburetors, tuned racing suspension, and other performance enhancements befitting its Dragonsnake moniker.

The question of value is always intriguing with vehicles of such rarity and historical significance. Originally sold with a sticker price that translates to just over $90k in today's money, this Dragonsnake has seen its value skyrocket, reflecting its unique status in the Shelby Cobra pantheon. Previous auction outings saw it achieve new heights in valuation, with its most recent sale in 2022 fetching $1,375,000. Now, with eyes set on a $1.7 million prize, the automotive world watches with bated breath.

The anticipation surrounding its sale is not just about the numbers. It signifies the appreciation for automotive history, the reverence for Carroll Shelby’s vision, and the passion that fuels the collector's market. This Cobra’s journey from the racetrack to the auction block is a narrative of heritage, performance, and prestige, making it not just a car, but a milestone in American motorsport history.

As the gavel readies to fall on May 18th, the question remains: Will this legendary 1965 Shelby Cobra Dragonsnake set a new record? Only time will tell. But one thing is for sure - its story will continue to inspire and captivate the hearts of car enthusiasts and collectors for generations to come.