Rare Shelby Series 1 Sports Car Up for Auction
The Shelby company, famous for its powerful Ford Mustang modifications, created its own roadster from scratch in the late 1990s called the Series 1. Production of this model was limited to just 249 units, which is why it remains little-known even to many car enthusiasts.
A Unique Example with History
One of these rare roadsters is now up for auction in Indiana. The car was sold new to the famous Japanese-American violinist Shoji Tabuchi. It is believed to be the only Series 1 painted in Guardsman Blue with Wimbledon White racing stripes.
Construction and Design
Shelby built the Series 1 on an aluminum chassis, installing body panels made of carbon fiber and fiberglass. The design was inspired by classic Cobras but received more modern contours. Although this car is from 1999, its mileage is only 1800 miles.
Shelby built the Series 1 on an aluminum chassis and then installed carbon fiber and fiberglass body panels. Design inspiration was obviously taken from Cobras of old, albeit morphed into something looking a little more modern.
Modern Technology in a Classic Execution
Creating a car from scratch is a complex and expensive undertaking, so Shelby used a ready-made 4.0-liter V8 engine from Oldsmobile. However, the power unit was seriously modified: a carbon fiber intake manifold was installed, along with modified camshafts and a Borla stainless steel exhaust system. With the optional X50 package, the power was about 370 hp, and the available supercharger could raise it to 450 hp.
Key features include 18-inch alloy wheels with multi-component Toyo Proxes RR tires (275/35 front and 345/35 rear) and Alcon brake calipers.
A True Driver’s Car
Most importantly, the car adheres to the classic formula where it matters. The V8 engine is paired with a six-speed manual transmission that sends power to the rear wheels. No paddle shifters or reductions. Just a true driver’s setup.
Interior Trim
The Series 1 interior features bucket seats upholstered in black and gray leather, with carbon fiber with a greenish-blue tint used on the instrument panel and transmission tunnel. The car also has special badges, a stereo system with a cassette player and CD player, and air conditioning.
This car is rare, unusual, and a true Shelby that is not a Mustang. Its production was limited, and its history is linked to a famous person, making it an interesting specimen for collectors. Low mileage and original paint only increase its value in the collector car market, where authenticity and uniqueness are often more important than mass-produced characteristics.