The Series 1 Coupe was a high-performance sports car, an exclusive vehicle that was introduced in 1998 to honor Carroll Shelby’s vision. Car manufacturers eagerly awaited each auto show to unveil their latest models, but the Series 1 Coupe made a huge impact. It was a modern interpretation of the Shelby AC Cobra, a sleek two-seat coupe with impressive performance and stunning aesthetics.
Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph (0 to 97 kph) took just 4.1 seconds. The car was equipped with power steering, power windows, and various other power features, along with air conditioning. Some models were sold without a convertible top, as that was the preference of certain customers.
Contrary to initial claims, Shelby American did not produce all 249 units in-house. General Motors oversaw production and supplied several components, including the 4.0-liter Aurora V8 engine. This engine delivered 320 horsepower (324 metric horsepower) in its standard configuration. However, there are exciting plans for the future, set to be unveiled in 2024!
In the late 1990s, customers had the option to choose more powerful versions of the Series 1 Coupe. They could opt for the X50 power upgrade, which increased the output to 374 horsepower (324 metric horsepower). Alternatively, there was a version with a supercharger that boasted an exhilarating 450 horsepower (456 metric horsepower).
Certain elements of the car were sourced from other General Motors brands. The Monsoon sound system came from GM, the cassette/radio player was from Buick, and the instrument cluster and climate controls were provided by Pontiac. Thus, the Series 1 Coupe wasn’t entirely an in-house production.
Fast forward to 2018, and the Shelby Series 2 Coupe was introduced as the successor to the Series 1. This new model had a very limited production run, with only four units being built each year. It featured redesigned bumpers, new headlights, and additional power, all for a price tag of $225,000 per car. Almost all production slots were quickly sold out shortly after its official unveiling at the 2006 Concourse Italiano in Monterey, California.
In a collaboration between Carroll Shelby Licensing, Wingard Motorsports, and Custom Coaches, the Shelby Series 2 Coupe has been revived to commemorate the anniversary of the Series 1’s debut. Only ten units will be handcrafted and sold as rollers by WMC. The model measures 169.0 inches (4,292 millimeters) in length, 76.5 inches (1,942 millimeters) in width, and 47.0 inches (1,194 millimeters) in height, with a wheelbase of 96.0 inches (2,428 millimeters).
The story began seven years ago when Wingard Motorsports acquired the remaining Shelby Series 1 chassis and components. The team made modifications to enhance performance, focusing on reducing weight, fine-tuning the suspension, strengthening the chassis, improving braking, and enhancing the drivetrain. Bob Wingard, the Founder of Wingard Motorsports and Custom Coaches, claims that the platform can handle more than 1,000 horsepower.
The base of the vehicle is built around the original aluminum honeycomb monocoque frame of the Series 1, known for its exceptional rigidity. Out of the total production, seven models will have aluminum bodies, while the rest will feature carbon fiber.
The upcoming model will offer a range of engine options. Customers can choose between the Carroll Shelby Engine Company 427 Windsor V8, a supercharged version of the powerful Ford 7.3-liter V8 Godzilla engine, or an electric powertrain as part of the Performance EV package. The exact performance specifications have not been disclosed yet.
With an almost equal weight distribution between the front and rear, the Shelby Series 2 Coupe 25th Anniversary Edition will weigh less than 3,200 pounds (1,452 kilograms). It will also come equipped with an inboard cantilevered suspension. The car will ride on 19-inch monoblock wheels fitted with Potenza performance tires.
Those interested in owning an aluminum-bodied limited edition coupe will have to shell out $498,200. This version can be either polished or painted with the iconic Shelby racing stripes.
On the other hand, the carbon fiber models are relatively more affordable, priced at $385,600. However, an additional cost of $83,500 will be incurred for the powertrain, which includes the engine (or electric motors) and the six-speed transaxle. These components are essential for optimal performance.
What do you get for this considerable investment? You get to choose your preferred engine, enjoy a concours fit and finish, and even have a six-inch paddle adjustment based on your preferences. Each car will be unique and will carry the Shelby American CSX5500 series serial number, which will be registered in the official Shelby American Registry.