Shelby Cobra CSX3209 was purchased new by Karl Schiffmayer in June 1966. The blue on black Cobra received minor body repairs necessitated by shipping damage and a hard top was fitted at the same time.

Known as a dyed-in-the-wool car guy, “Fritz” Schiffmayer had previously owned an early Thunderbird and a 1962 Corvette. In his hands, Schiffmayer installed a 427 Tunnel-port engine in the early 70’s, replacing the original 289 Ford V8. To increase cooling for the larger engine, a hood scoop and venting louvers were added to the hood.

By the late 80’s, the car had been equipped with Halibrand wheels, a chrome roll bar, black sidepipes and a competition fuel cap. Schiffmayer’s passion was racing his Shelby Cobra all over the country. He soon became the fastest Cobra driver in the nation, beating Bob Bondurant.

Owner of a Wisconsin-based plastics company, he later bought Paul Newman and Scott Sharp’s GT1 Oldsmobile. Karl then won the SW Grand Prix National Race in 1994. CSX3209 was Karl Schiffmayer’s pride and joy until his passing in April 2010, perhaps the only Shelby 427 Cobra ever to remain with a single owner since new.

The car will be auctioned at the upcoming Mecum Mecum at Monterey collector car event, August 13-14, 2010.See the web site for additional details.