The 1964 Shelby Daytona Coupe CSX2299 was the second coupe built, the first to wear Italian coachwork and carries the best race history of the six coupes built. It competed in a total of ten FIA events in 1964 and 1965. It scored a debut class win during the 1964 24 Hours of Le Mans. Two months later Dan Gurney piloted the car to a GT win at Goodwood. Early in 1965, victories at the Daytona 2000 km and Sebring 12 Hours were also added to the cars history.
By the end of the 1963 season Shelby American realized the need for a more aerodynamic version of the 289 Cobra roadster to keep up with the sleek Ferrari 250 GTO. Peter Brock was busy designing this new coupe body and assuring everyone at Shelby American this was the best design. He was, in fact quite correct as the end result was the first and only American built FIA GT World Champion.
Overview
- Production Year: 1964 (racing debut)
- Manufacturer: Shelby American, Inc.
- Class: Sports racing car / GT racing car
- Body Style: Two-seat coupe
Design and Specifications
- Engine:
- The Shelby Daytona Coupe was powered by a high-performance Ford V8 engine.
- Initially, it used a 4.7-liter (289 cubic inches) small-block V8 engine, similar to that used in the Shelby Cobra, producing approximately 385 horsepower.
- Later versions, such as the competition-specification models, were upgraded to a 7.0-liter (427 cubic inches) big-block V8, significantly increasing power output.
- Transmission:
- The car was equipped with a 4-speed manual transmission, allowing for quick shifts and precise control over acceleration.
- Chassis:
- The chassis was based on the AC Cobra's ladder-type steel tube frame, reinforced and modified for improved aerodynamics and rigidity.
- Suspension:
- Front suspension typically consisted of independent coil springs and wishbones, while the rear featured a live axle with coil springs and trailing arms.
- Suspension tuning was crucial for handling and stability at high speeds on various racing circuits.
Performance
- Top Speed: The Shelby Daytona Coupe achieved impressive speeds, exceeding 180 mph (290 km/h) on straightaways, making it one of the fastest cars of its time.
- Acceleration: With its powerful V8 engine and lightweight construction, the car boasted rapid acceleration, essential for competitive racing starts and overtaking maneuvers.
- Handling: The Daytona Coupe was renowned for its exceptional handling and stability, thanks to its aerodynamic body design, balanced chassis, and well-tuned suspension.
Design Features
- Bodywork:
- The Shelby Daytona Coupe featured a distinctive and aerodynamically optimized coupe body, designed to reduce drag and generate downforce at high speeds.
- It had a sleek profile with a low hood, pronounced rear haunches, and a distinctive Kamm tail to enhance aerodynamic efficiency.
- Interior:
- The cockpit was designed for racing, with a minimalist layout focused on driver control and functionality.
- It featured a single-seat configuration with essential instrumentation and controls within easy reach.
- Customization:
- Each Shelby Daytona Coupe was meticulously built and customized for racing specifications, including adjustments to aerodynamics, engine tuning, and suspension settings based on specific race tracks and conditions.
Legacy
- Historical Significance:
- The Shelby Daytona Coupe holds significant historical importance as the first American car to win the FIA World Sportscar Championship GT class in 1965, defeating European rivals.
- It showcased American engineering prowess and competitiveness on the international racing stage, challenging the dominance of Ferrari and other European manufacturers.
- Cultural Impact:
- The Daytona Coupe became an iconic symbol of American motorsport achievement and innovation during the 1960s, capturing the imagination of enthusiasts and inspiring future generations of racing cars.
- It solidified Carroll Shelby's reputation as a visionary and skilled automotive designer, further establishing his legacy in the automotive industry.
- Collector's Interest:
- Due to its racing pedigree, historical significance, and limited production numbers (only six original Daytona Coupes were built), the car is highly coveted by collectors and automotive enthusiasts.
- Original examples with documented racing histories, such as chassis CSX2287 which set records and won championships, command exorbitant prices at auctions and are prized possessions in private collections and museums.
You may purchase a print of the 1964 Shelby Daytona Coupe in our dElegance 2012 online gallery.