Quote:
Originally posted by CRZN427
Shelby brought the majority of the manufacturing to California and modified the chassis to accept the big block with such upgrades as stronger material for the chassis, A-Frame coil spring front suspension, in lieu of the AC's transverse leaf spring, wider body to accept the bigger tires and a stronger transmission and rear end for the added power.
|
There really was no difference in manufacturing by AC, between the 289 and the 427 product lines. Both were finished by AC to approximately the same level.
I don't believe SA ever left an AC badge on their vehicles.
The first batch of 289 Cobras got this badge:
During the first year, the reference to AC was dropped and this became the 289 badge:
After (approx) the first year, the badge changed to the one we all recognize as the "standard Cobra" emblem, also used throughout the 427 production.
As far as the steering hub is concerned, all 289's had the AC emblem.
For the 427's, it is not as clear.
The first 427's...the Comp cars... had no hub emblem.
The silver and black Cobra emblem seems to be the most prevalent for most of the 427's.
One source cites the red-white-and-blue Cobra emblem as aftermarket and actually made for the 1965 GT-350s, and may have been used on some 427s
Randy... nice catch on a bit of trivia.. the FIA cars had no badging on any side.