Legendary 1965 Shelby 427 Cobra CSX3009 Heads to Mecum Auction

The 1965 Shelby 427 Competition Cobra Roadster, CSX3009—affectionately known as the “Essex Wire Cobra” or “Ollie the Dragon”—is set to hit the auction block at Mecum Kissimmee on January 18th, 2025. Widely regarded as one of the most iconic and successful racing cars in history, this legendary Cobra has racked up numerous accolades, including three major championship titles, and has undergone an impeccable restoration, making it one of the most sought-after vehicles among collectors and enthusiasts.

A Racing Legacy That Defined the Era – 

The story of CSX3009 begins in 1965 when the Cobra was built and campaigned by Shelby American for Essex Wire, a prominent industrial wiring company. Essex Wire’s sponsorship was masterminded by its visionary president, Walter Probst, who formed a marketing partnership with Ford to promote both brands through racing. The project was spearheaded by Essex’s Ford Account Executive, Fred Krammer, who recruited Robert “Skip” Scott, a rising star in the racing world, to drive the car.

Upon its arrival in 1965, CSX3009 was finished in Wimbledon White, adorned with a wide black stripe bordered in orange, with “Essex Wire” boldly displayed on each door. It featured the mighty 427 cubic-inch side-oiler V8 engine, producing more than 500 horsepower, paired with a Ford Toploader 4-speed manual transmission. With its distinctive look, powerful engine, and racing pedigree, CSX3009 quickly made its mark in the world of motorsports.

On April 4, 1965, CSX3009 made its competitive debut at the USRRC 200 in Pensacola, Florida. Driven by Scott with Dick Thompson as a relief driver, it qualified 10th and finished fourth overall—an impressive feat for the car’s first major race. This was just the beginning of a racing career that would see the Essex Wire Cobra secure victories at various major races, including Bridgehampton, Watkins Glen, Road America, and the Continental Divide. The Cobra’s next big win came when it placed third overall at the prestigious FIA-sanctioned Bridgehampton Double 500 race.

The Birth of “Ollie the Dragon” – 

CSX3009’s nickname, “Ollie the Dragon,” was coined by the team due to the car’s fiery exhaust bursts. As described by driver Dick Thompson, every time the throttle was let off, a “belch of fire about three feet long” would shoot out of the hood scoop. This dramatic display of power became one of the car’s most distinctive and unforgettable features, cementing its place in racing lore.

Dominating the Track in the 1966-1970 Seasons – 

By 1966, the Essex Wire Cobra had achieved enough success for its team to focus on the SCCA’s A Production series. With Ed Lowther taking over driving duties, CSX3009 went on to win the 1966 SCCA A Production National Championship. The car continued to show dominance with additional victories, but a near-miss in 1967 saw Lowther and the Cobra edged out of the championship by another competitor.

In 1970, CSX3009 underwent a rebuilding phase after being involved in a major crash. Despite this setback, the Cobra continued to perform well in races and saw success in the 1973 and 1974 seasons. Under the ownership of Sam Feinstein, CSX3009 found itself back in the winner’s circle, capturing the Northeast Division A Production Championship two years in a row, as well as victories in the American Road Race of Champions (ARRC).

A Legacy of Restoration and Authenticity – 

After changing ownership several times, the car was sold to renowned Shelby collector George Stauffer in 1982, and it remained in original racing condition for many years. In the mid-1990s, the car was handed over to David Trueman, who commissioned a restoration by Racing Restorations Ltd. of Danbury, Connecticut. The car’s restoration continued under André Ahrlé, a former race driver and Cobra enthusiast, who then sought the expertise of renowned Cobra restorer Mike McCluskey.

McCluskey’s meticulous work returned CSX3009 to its former glory, bringing it back to its Essex Wire livery and preserving its racing heritage. During the restoration, Carroll Shelby himself visited McCluskey’s shop three times, advising on the process and ensuring the finished product would be as authentic as possible.

Immaculate Restoration and Award-Winning Status – 

In 2013, CSX3009 was entered into the Shelby American Automobile Club’s (SAAC) 38th Annual Convention in Fontana, California. There, it earned the highest-ever restoration score for a competition Cobra, receiving 493 points out of a possible 500. The vehicle also became a multiple-time Best of Show winner at prestigious events, further solidifying its reputation as one of the most well-restored and historically significant Shelby Cobras in existence.

Rare Original Components and Historic Documentation – 

CSX3009 retains an impressive array of rare, original components, including its magnesium intake manifold, aluminum competition cylinder heads, and T10 4-speed manual transmission. The Cobra also comes with an additional set of original Halibrand wheels and Goodyear Blue Streak tires, enhancing its authenticity and appeal to collectors.

Along with the car, the new owner will receive an extensive history file filled with period photos, race documents, and restoration details. Notably, CSX3009 is accompanied by the original helmet, race suit, and gloves worn by Ed Lowther during the 1966 season when he claimed the car’s first championship. Furthermore, an exact 1:5 scale model of the car, crafted by Jorge Sordelli, is included as a tribute to the car’s storied past and painstaking restoration.

A Once-in-a-Lifetime Auction Opportunity – 

The sale of CSX3009 at Mecum Kissimmee represents a rare opportunity to own one of the most legendary Shelby Cobras in existence. With its unmatched racing pedigree, flawless restoration, and iconic status as the “winningest Cobra,” CSX3009 is expected to fetch a significant price at the auction, attracting collectors and enthusiasts from around the world. For those with a passion for racing history and Shelby’s enduring legacy, this is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to acquire a piece of automotive greatness.

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