Superformance MKII FIA

This Superformance MKII FIA is a licensed continuation of the 1962 Shelby Cobra 289, designed to emulate the iconic race cars of the 1960s with a Tojeiro-style round tube chassis, transverse leaf spring suspension, and compatibility with a 289 motor and Tremec TKX transmission. It’s built for both track and street use, maintaining authenticity with features like FIA-specific bodywork, a Le Mans-style fuel filler.

Race History of the Original Shelby Cobra 289 FIA (1962–1965)

The Shelby Cobra 289, introduced in 1962, was a dominant force in international and American motorsport, particularly in FIA and USRRC competitions. Its racing pedigree is what the Superformance MKII FIA seeks to recreate.

1.  1962: Early Success

•  The Shelby Cobra 289 debuted in 1962, powered by a Ford 260ci V8 (later upgraded to the 289ci). It quickly proved its mettle, winning five races in its first year.

•  The Cobra’s lightweight AC Ace-derived chassis, combined with the powerful Ford V8, gave it a significant advantage over European competitors like Ferrari and Porsche.

2.  1963–1964: FIA and USRRC Dominance

•  The Cobra 289 FIA models were modified for endurance racing under FIA regulations, featuring a Tojeiro-style round tube chassis, transverse leaf spring suspension, and specific bodywork adjustments like the Le Mans-style fuel filler and trunk dimples for luggage space.

•  Notable achievements:

•  1963: The Cobra 289 secured multiple victories in USRRC events, establishing its reputation as a formidable competitor.

•  1964: The Cobra 289 FIA cars competed in international FIA events, including Le Mans, where they were fitted with long-range fuel cells and other race-specific modifications. The cars were known for their distinctive colored stripes across the fenders and hood, a feature replicated in the Superformance MKII FIA.

•  The Shelby team’s modifications, such as riveted hoods to prevent high-speed detachment and fender air vents to manage engine heat, enhanced performance in endurance races.

3.  1965: FIA World Championship

•  The Shelby Cobra 289 achieved its pinnacle in 1965, becoming the first American-made car to win the FIA World Sportscar Championship. This victory solidified its status as an American icon, outpacing European rivals like Ferrari in the GT class.

•  Key drivers, including Bob Bondurant, piloted the Cobra 289 to success in various races, contributing to its championship win.

Standard Equipment

• Show quality two-stage paint finishes
• Hand laminated fiberglass body with reinforcing inserts
• Heavy duty TIG welded 3″ Tojeiro style frame chassis
• Transverse leaf spring style suspension
• Limited slip differential
• Willwood® front and rear disc brakes with double master cylinders
• Original style shifter and hand brake lever
• Aluminum interior, trunk and engine compartment
• Sun Visors and wind wings
• Original style latch-lock seat belts
• Moto – Lita wooden steering wheel
• Monza style filler
• Aluminum hi-performance radiator, shroud and fan
• Original style gauges (Stewart Warner) and switches
• Stainless steel fuel tank 14 gallon
• Stainless steel roll bar, chassis mounted

DIMENSIONS and CAPACITIES:

• Wheelbase: 90″
• Length: 151.5″
• Height (Top of screen): 45″
• Width (Overall): 72″
• Track Front: 53″
• Track Rear: 53″
• Fuel Tank: 14 gal.
• Front Wheels: 15″ Dayton 70 spoke knock off
• Rear Wheels: 15″ Dayton 70 spoke knock off
• Tires-Front 205/70 R15
• Tires-Rear 205/70 R15
• ZF Limited slip differential, ratio 3:46:1
• Chassis: Round Tube
• Body: Fiberglass with steel tube reinforcements
• Body Reinforcements: Beneath doors, hood and trunk
• Front Suspension: Transverse leaf spring, Spax adjustable shocks
• Rear Suspension: Transverse leaf spring, Spax adjustable shocks
• Steering: Rack and pinion
• Pedal Box: ¾ clutch master cylinder, 2x ¾ brake master cylinders with balance bar
• Front Brakes: Wilwood 4 pot dynalite
• Rear Brakes: Wilwood 2 pot with handbrake incorporated
• Exhaust system: Twin pipe rear exit
• Instrumentation: Stewart Warner
• Interior: Motolita steering wheel, leather/vinyl seats
• Weather: Optional soft top, side screens and tonneau cover
• Recommended engine & transmission: Ford 289/302 based with TKO 600