Kirkham in Shelby Registry

[Jim Maxwell]

I didn't put that little Shelby Cobra emblem next to my name, ClubCobra did. If you don't get the self-effacing humor of the "mysterious..." comment, well....OK.
I have this nifty "AC Chassis" manual that came with my 289 and on the first page it gives top billing to AC Cars, LTD, and then mentions Shelby American. I also have an original 289 Cobra brochure. The front cover reads, "Shelby AC Cobra" and the inner page describes the collaboration between Shelby and AC. Seems like more than a supplier relationship to me.
I guess if we really want to be honest, correct, and follow the historical precedent that none other than Carroll Shelby established, then early CSX4000 aluminum body cars should really be "Shelby Kirkham Cobras".
OK. Enough from me on that. Probably more than enough for some!

I am personally in favor of listing all Cobra models, replicas, continuations, etc. in the upcoming and future registries. This is wonderful history of the incredible inspiration provided by the original series of cars and of the effort, time and pride of the owners and builders of all of these Cobras. I especially like the CSX 4000 series, particularly the aluminum body ones. My beef was with your downplaying of the important role AC Cars, Ltd played.
I like them all.
(And I wish I had a Ford GT!)

[REAL 1]

Jim: No disrespect. I agree with much of what you say. I just see Shelby as playing the more important role then AC. As I understand CS even downplayed ACs involvement as time went by and they played a minor role in the development of the Daytona and 427. Thats the way I see it. AC made the Ace and supplied the Ace chasis and body to SAI which converted them into Shelby Cobras. Thats my take. Take it or leave it but I think its factually sound.

Candidly I have no issue with guys listing what cars they have on the site. I don't see it as "bragging" or being egotistical as this is a car enthusiast site is it not? It nice and at time helpful to know who has what and many guys here have done exactly that.


I agree with your statement on the Registry too. If not for the original series there would be nothing thereafter. As far as I'm concerned the "originals" are the "brass ring" so to speak and the template to follow. No one is trying to elevate the Continuation Series to be an "original" but it does deserve recognition for what it is as stated by SAAC. Someone knocks the car. I simply defend it for what it is. Thats not "bragging", being "egotistical" nor elevating it beyond what it is nor does it mean a continuation owner is saying his is "better or prettier" then others. It is what SAAC has accepted it as. There are those here that can't accept that. Thats my point despite how its "twisted" by a few here with "CSX envy" who take every opprotunity to knock the car.

I also enjoyed the article featuring your car recently in I think it was Sports Car or Classic Car. Can't remember which but it was this past July.

BTW, you wouldn't want a Ford GT, Cowtowncobra has now declared they are "bastardized" "POS"



Jamo: You think I would be here without a heavy duty cup. As usual, I didn't start this but somehow wound up in the middle.