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The 1965 Shelby 427 Competition Cobra CSX3019 has a storied past, racing across Europe in major events such as the Targa Florio. After decades in museums, the car was rediscovered, restored to its original racing spec, and returned to glory.
Shipped to Europe and campaigned by Freutel and his ex-Formula 1 co-driver, Tony Settember, the Shelby 427 Competition Cobra CSX3019 competed in numerous European events during the 1966 season, including the Targa Florio, Spa, the Nürburgring, and the Le Mans 24 Hours. Despite Freutel's limited racing experience—having previously raced cars like MGBs—the team was ambitious in entering such prestigious events.
The Cobra's debut at the Targa Florio was marred by an accident on the second lap, damaging the right front wheel and suspension. After recovery, it was discovered that several parts, including the road wheels and carburettor, were missing. The car was sent to Modena for repairs with Shelby parts flown in and reinstalled.
Years later, Gary Bartlett traced the car to the National Motor Museum in Beaulieu, where he first saw it in a psychedelic paint scheme in March 2018. Noticing an unusual dry-sump oil filler cap, Bartlett began researching its history and uncovered its significance. After being sold by Freutel to John Tojeiro and then to John Woolfe—who had racing success with the car before his tragic death at Le Mans—the Cobra passed through several owners and was placed in the museum for around 35 years.
Bartlett acquired the car in October 2022 after years of persistence. Although it appeared in good condition, restoration revealed underlying damage and unprofessional repairs. He decided to return it to its original Targa Florio specification. The restoration was a transatlantic effort: Barry Burgess (JA Rose, Hawkhurst, Kent) handled the mechanical restoration, while Angus Blomfield (Class Works, Sunbury-on-Thames) refinished the paintwork. The engine work was undertaken by DeWaine McGunegill in Muncie, Indiana, and Nick Acton (Acton Custom Enterprises, New Hampshire) supplied parts and information.
During the rebuild, the V8 engine was found to have a Le Mans-spec crankshaft and connecting rods, distinguished by features like a dollar sign stamp and upgraded rod bolts. The Cobra's unique history, once hidden, now shines after a comprehensive restoration.
At events like Goodwood, the Cobra appears small yet powerful, with a storied competition history and a remarkable comeback to the track, underscoring its legacy as a significant Anglo-American race car.
