Shelby American, a wholly owned subsidiary of Carroll Shelby International Inc. (CSBI:PK), today unveiled the “Cammer Cobra” concept, a 427 SOHC V8 powered continuation Shelby Cobra Daytona Coupe, at the Carlisle Ford Nationals presented by Meguiar’s in Carlisle, Pennsylvania. The “Cammer Cobra” follows Carroll Shelby’s initial vision for a racecar to compete in the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

Each year, the Carlisle Pennsylvania Fairgrounds hosts Ford fans from across the country and more than 3,200 vehicles on the National Parts Depot Showfield. In addition to the impressive cars and crowds, the weekend includes displays, special themes and automotive celebrities. The concept car was introduced during the three day event.

“Carroll Shelby wanted to fit a massive Ford big block engine into a Shelby Cobra Daytona Coupe for Le Mans in 1964,” said Gary Patterson, president of Shelby American. “While many know that a one-off car was built with a 427 ‘wedge’ Ford engine, that was not Carroll Shelby’s initial vision. He hoped to pair the sleek aerodynamics of the Peter Brock designed body with the incredibly powerful aluminum single overhead cam version of the FE motor. Since it was impossible to obtain one of those rare engines in time for the race, Shelby American installed the NASCAR version. Our concept car was built to realize Carroll’s initial Cammer vision.”

Often called "Ford's greatest engine”, the Single Overhead Cam (SOHC) V8, was based on Ford's 427ci side-oiler block. The engine was intended to be Ford's two-valve, single-overhead-cam, high-rpm answer to Chrysler's 426 Hemi for NASCAR in 1964. 

“It is essentially a single-overhead-cam conversion of Ford's 427 V8,” said Vince LaViolette, Shelby American Vice President of Operations. “The heads were predominantly cast-iron, though later aluminum ones were available, with a roller chain cam-drive. The block had revised oiling and cross-bolted main bearing caps were added to handle the increased rpm. The Ford 427 Cammer churned out 616 horsepower with a single four-barrel carburetor and 657 horsepower with dual four-barrel set up. It was one of the most powerful engines to come out of Detroit during the period.”

In 1964, Carroll Shelby tasked fabricator John Ohlsen with lengthening the chassis of one of the six Daytona Coupes (CSX2286). Shelby planned to replace the 289 c.i.d. Ford engine with the SOHC motor. The experimental racecar was supposed to be Shelby’s “secret weapon” for the 1964 Le Mans race. However, it was impossible to secure the SOHC motor in time and a reliable, high-performance NASCAR 427 was used instead. Weighing about 2,200 pounds with world class aerodynamics and the power of a big block, the car had tremendous performance potential; it was thought capable of going 200+ miles per hour at Le Mans.

However, the car did not make the race and never ran a lap with the 427 SOHC when Shelby American returned it to small block configuration.

“The Shelby Cobra Daytona Coupe program still achieved great success without the big block and won its class at Le Mans in 1964,” said LaViolette. “The next year, Shelby American took the FIA World Sports Car Championship with the Coupe and roadsters rolling over the competition.”

The Craftsmen of Legendary GT of Pennsylvania build continuation Shelby Cobra Daytona Coupes for Shelby American. Each aluminum Coupe incorporates safety and performance improvements without sacrificing integrity, as they are built from original blueprints and measurements.

Legendary GT founder Barry Smith was a close friend of Carroll Shelby and is a major supporter of the Carroll Shelby Foundation. He has always been fascinated with Shelby performance cars and his collection features a variety of 1960s era Shelby American vehicles.

The continuation big block Shelby Daytona Coupe follows the same specs as the Ohlsen modified racecar. It has an aluminum body over a 3-inch lengthened chassis with a hood modified to accommodate the aluminum 427 SOHC big block motor. The 650-horsepower engine is mated to a period-correct 4-speed manual transmission. The car was assigned Shelby serial number CSX2623 and will be documented in the official Shelby Registry.

The Carlisle Ford Nationals is celebrating Shelby American’s 60^th anniversary this year. Festivities include the concept vehicle introduction, factory display and Team Shelby East Coast Grand Nationals integration. Patterson introduced the Shelby concept car, surrounded by Team Shelby members, at 3 PM ET on Friday, June 3. The event was open to the media and public.

“This concept is a tribute to the Shelby Cobra Daytona Coupe, one of the most celebrated cars in automotive history,” said Patterson. “It answers the ‘what if’ question for everyone who shared Carroll’s dream and will also gauge demand for a limited series of the vehicle. We plan to exhibit the Cammer Concept throughout the year in celebration of our 60^th anniversary.”

For more information about the Shelby Continuation Daytona Coupes is available at Shelby.com.

Carlisle Auctions is halfway through its 2022 auction schedule and after two successful events, anticipation is high for the two fall offerings; the Fall Carlisle Collector Car Auction (September 29-30) and the Lakeland Fall Collector Car Auction (November 11-12).  

While Carlisle Auctions is actively taking consignments for these two events, let's look back at what 2022 as offered us so far. 

In late February, Carlisle Auctions went to Lakeland, Florida where hundreds of classic and collector cars sold.  Many future classics also crossed the block and with the demand for new vehicles, saw prices touch six figures.  Fast forward to April and Carlisle Auctions returned to Carlisle, Pennsylvania for what is known (for now) as the best-ever auction produced by Carlisle Auctions.  For two days, 72% of all lots sold and the event tallied $6.5 million in sales. 

The top five sellers were as follows: 
1. 1971 Oldsmobile 442 Convertible - $100,440
2. 1969 Camaro - $85,320
3. 1934 Ford 5 Window - $83,160
4. 1967 Corvette - $81,500
5. 1965 Tiger Sunbeam - $81,000

Another cool moment coming out of the Spring auction was that a buyer in Melbourne, Australia became the new owner of a 1963 Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud III.  She was a phone bidder and soon, her elegant British ride will arrive down under for her to enjoy, drive, and show off!  

In front of the upcoming Fall events, consigners are encouraged to bring their truck to auction...not just as a mode of transportation, but as a sellable lot!  Trucks are also quite popular these days.  After all, there are countless songs about trucks, so from a lifestyle stand point, it works!  The truck market has NEVER been hotter and each of the next two auctions will feature an all-truck hour.  At a time and date TBD during these events, trucks will be the ONLY vehicles crossing the block. 

With new trucks nearly impossible to come by and pre-owned trucks still selling at a premium, take advantage of the demand and sell with Carlisle Auctions.

Finally, the Fall Carlisle Collector Car Auction will feature at least one collection of cars from a single consignor; Dave Ferro.   Dave is a long-time friend of Carlisle Events, Bill Miller, Jr. and the late Chip Miller.  Not only will these lots from the Dave Ferro Collection cross the block, some will be display at events this summer at Carlisle too.

Call 717-960-6400 today or visit us online to learn more about bidding, buying, or selling with Carlisle Auctions in 2022 and beyond!  Let our expert team help with an investment that truly accelerates!  

Every year our very own Ed Buczeskie pens (types) a piece for Mopar Collector's Guide.  As the event manager for the Carlisle Chrysler Nationals, he's in touch with Mopar enthusiasts from around the world, many of whom make their way to Carlisle each July.  Our latest All About Cars blog post comes to you from the desk of Ed himself and takes a look at the 2022 Carlisle Chrysler Nationals!  So...without further adieu, let's learn all about the July 15-17 event at the Carlisle PA Fairgrounds.
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Carlisle Chrysler Nationals Preview

It was clear that people were ready to get back out in 2021 and we saw that with a record setting 2,927 show cars! That beats the old record by more than 100 cars, which is bittersweet because we did it without our Canadian friends who typically bring another 120 Mopars. We have our fingers crossed in hopes that we break the 3,000-car mark this year, but even more important, we want to see our Canadian Mopar family again. We hope you’ll join us this July to help break the record and exceed 3,000 cars.

Speaking of huge, the all-Mopar swap meet is on track to sell out again. After selling out in 2019 and 2021 (we sold Car Corral spots for general vending to accommodate where we could), we added a few more spaces; don’t ask how!! We have just over 3,000 vending spaces in the swap meet and as of this writing (late March), we have less than 300 remaining. If you haven’t booked your spaces yet, contact us ASAP to see if we have any left.

In a lot of cases, there is an actual family connection with our Mopars and we’re going to highlight some of those vehicles this year with a Mopars in the Family display. We’re looking for cool cars for this, but we’re just as interested in the story. We’ve heard some incredible stories involving Mopars over the years and now we want to feature them. The only requirement for consideration is a family connection. We’ll know a great story when we hear it, so if you have one that you think qualifies, please submit an application.

We’re taking a slight detour for our next featured display, but this isn’t the first time we’ve done something untraditional. We did the first ever Barn Finds display way back in 2010 by filling Building Y with derelict Mopars. Our sanity was questioned but it turned out to be a hit. This year we’re straying from automobiles a bit and doing a non-automotive Mopar Collectibles Display. Imagine a building filled with go karts, bicycles, Sno Runners, boats, driving simulators and more…all with a Mopar connection. We’re still looking for cool items and we’re especially looking for things we might not know exist. You’re strongly encouraged to submit if you have something for this once-in-a-lifetime display. You won’t want to miss this one!

1972 was a full 50 years ago. Performance was waning but Mopar hadn’t given up. You could still get a 440, a 4-speed and a Dana 60 in a B-Body. 340s still rocked and came in some pretty attractive packages. We’ll have some of the nicest ‘72s and a couple of the rarest as we celebrate 50 years of the 1972 model year. If you have a truly unique ’72, go to www.CarlisleFeatures.com to submit an application.

Most people reading this probably remember when the Prowler came out. It was unlike anything an OEM had ever made. It was a factory-built street rod. It wasn’t all that long ago, right? It was 25 years ago! It’s kind of rare to see a Prowler these days but we’re expecting to have 50+ including some special ones in a big tent on the Showfield. From bone stock to highly modified, we’ll have them all.

We didn’t let Covid slow us down in 2020 and put our full effort into the show. We wanted everyone who attended to get the same experience and quality they have come to expect from Carlisle Events. Even though many 1970 Charger owners are from Canada, including the leader of the registry, we moved forward with the 50^th anniversary celebration. It was done with the understanding that there would be a redo as soon as Canadians could travel freely to the US. So this year will be the 1970 Charger 50^th Anniversary Redux. These owners are a passionate bunch and we’re expecting a record turnout!

We were tightlipped about last year’s collectible diecast offering because we weren’t sure if it would be done in time due to its complexity. We replicated John McCabe’s Old Skool Paint 1971 Charger dubbed “Mr. Hemi.” It was our coolest offering to date! This year we have the first in a two-part set. Do you remember the 1971 ‘Cuda ad with the 340 on the left and the Hemicuda on the right? This year will be the 340 ‘Cuda and the packaging will be the left side of the ad. Next year we’ll offer the Hemicuda with the right side of the ad. When displayed together, you’ll have the full ad.

We’re always adding something new to the show and this year we’re doing something we’ve never done. Join us at the stage on Friday morning for a “State of the Hobby” address. You’re reading MCG right now so you’re most likely familiar with Rob’s annual “State of the Hobby” column. However, this will be live and will involve several presenters including media, restorers, custom builders, Mopar businesses, SEMA reps, show promoters, racers and more. At the conclusion of the address there will be some really cool Mopar unveilings. Stay tuned!

In addition to the aforementioned highlights, the show will have Mel Major’s Mopar Survivors display, autocross shootout, special guests, Kids at Carlisle, women’s activities and so much more. Outside of the event hours, don’t forget to hang out with your Mopar family. We’ve been part of some pretty awesome hotel parking lot gatherings. You’re also welcome to stick around the fairgrounds to hang at your club tent, by your car, etc. Whatever you decide, make sure to make the most of your time at the Carlisle Chrysler Nationals in Carlisle, PA, July 15-17. Go to www.CarlisleEvents.com for more information.

For two days in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, the automotive world was showcased in a way that is rarely duplicated at any other car show.  The Carlisle Import & Performance Nationals presented by eBay Motors took place May 13-14 at the Carlisle PA Fairgrounds and it did just that and then some in 2022.  The show has always been a diverse and eclectic mix of cars and trucks from around the world, but this year, the mix was even greater with the rare and unique combining with the new and yet to be released.

1,802 vehicles populated the Showfield and that total is the third highest ever since the Carlisle Import & Performance Nationals came to be.  Of those cars, one was the all-new 2023 Nissan Z, a model that won’t be available to the consumer until late in 2022 or early 2023.  In addition, the yellow version on grounds is just one of a handful of show cars known to exist and best of all, regardless of color, the 2023 Z was making its enthusiast car show debut at Carlisle.  A popular draw, the yellow Z sat front and center in Building Y and was possibly the most photographed car at Carlisle.

Not far from THE Z were display buildings laced with some of the best of the best from around the world.  This included French cars in and around Building R, BMWs, Dune Buggies and Subarus in Building T, dozens of Zs in and around Building Y, Porsches just inside of Gate 3, and race prepared cars in the paddock on the east side of the grounds.

Those who ignored their weather apps in advance of the car show and simply came to Carlisle anyway stayed dry throughout the weekend, dodging just one late afternoon shower on Friday.  Otherwise, it was warm, with sun, and hot cars all around.

While the Z was unique in that it’s not available yet, there were more rare and unique rides on display in 2022.  With more than half a dozen countries represented, guests were able to check out a Toyota Century, Honda Beat, Honda S660, VW XL1, Volvo 340 and much more.  In addition, the club scene was hopping with the SAABs at Carlisle group taking home the largest club award, while Club NVUS was tapped as the coolest club winner.

The Carlisle Import & Performance Nationals also became a stopping point for a group of European car lovers who were trekking cross-country from Los Angeles to Baltimore in a 1986 Citroen 2CV.  The car turned plenty of heads on their drive and at the show as they worked to raise awareness for Kennedy’s Disease.  From Carlisle, the car was slated to make a few more stops before it gets shipped to England.  From there, the journey continues to Rome, Italy.

Speaking of cars in motion, the Datsun and Nissan Z cars took part in an on grounds parade, the Volvos did too and with multiple competitions, plus autocross and drifting hosted by NICO Club, and all new, rolling burnouts and donuts, there were plenty of opportunities to see the show cars come to life.

As the final day of the 2022 show concluded, awards were posted for those who participated in professional judging.  eJudged.com was back at it this year, offering their expertise to a few hundred car owners.  Those who didn’t win still had the chance to talk with the judges to better their chances for future considerations.

The 2023 version of the event is happening May 12-13 and registration for it is now open.  Up next for Carlisle Events is the Carlisle Ford Nationals presented by Meguiar’s June 3-5.  For details on this event, advanced arrival information or to check out the winner’s list and photos from Import & Performance weekend, visit CarlisleEvents.com.

Shelby American, a wholly owned subsidiary of Carroll Shelby International Inc. (CSBI:PK), will celebrate its 60^th anniversary at the Carlisle Ford Nationals presented by Meguiar’s on June 3-5, 2022, in Carlisle, Penn. Festivities will include a concept vehicle introduction, factory display and Team Shelby East Coast Grand Nationals integration.  

Each year, the Carlisle PA Fairgrounds hosts Ford fans from across the country and more than 3,200 vehicles on the National Parts Depot Showfield. In addition to the impressive cars and crowds, the weekend includes displays, special themes and automotive celebrities.

“Shelby American has become an international symbol of high-performance motoring during the past 60 years,” said Gary Patterson, president of Shelby American. “We’ll honor that reputation by displaying our past, present and potential future at the Carlisle Ford Nationals including the Shelby Super Snake, Shelby Mustang Mach-E concept and supercharged muscle trucks. A huge number of Team Shelby members will join the East Coast Grand Nationals to watch us unveil a concept car in the historic Shelby display.”

After retiring as a Le Mans-winning driver, Carroll Shelby established Shelby American in 1962. His first car was the Ford small block powered Shelby Cobra roadster, which he promptly took racing. It was followed by the Shelby Cobra Daytona Coupe, which won its class at Le Mans in 1964. Shelby American introduced an all-new big block Ford motored Shelby Cobra and high-performance version of the Ford Mustang (Shelby GT350). Over the years, Shelby has offered sports cars, trucks, hot hatches and muscle cars. The company’s current vehicle in the lineup builds upon its rich legacy.

One of the most exciting moments of the weekend may be the introduction of a Shelby concept car by Patterson, surrounded by Team Shelby members, at 3 PM ET on Friday, June 3. The event is open to the media, as well as anyone attending the Carlisle Ford Nationals, inside Building T. The concept is a tribute to one of the most celebrated cars in automotive history and will gauge the demand for a limited series of the vehicle.

“We are honored that Shelby American has chosen the Carlisle Ford Nationals as the host location for their special unveiling,” said event manager Ken Appell. “This event is recognized by many as the best of its type and its annual growth would not be possible without our guests and partners like Shelby American. I can’t thank the Shelby American team enough for being with us and I encourage you to make your way to Carlisle next month, not only for this historic unveiling, but to experience first-hand THE biggest all-Ford themed car show in the world.”

Team Shelby will do its part to boost attendance. The international club is holding the annual East Coast Grand Nationals with track sessions at Pocono Raceway and other activities, including a parade to the Carlisle PA Fairgrounds on Friday, June 3. Team Shelby will have its own hospitality area and is encouraging Shelby owners to attend with their vehicles to break the record for the most Shelby vehicles in one place.

Ford Motor Company is returning with walk-arounds focused on the Ice White Mach 1, Ice White Mach-E, Shelby GT500, Raptor, and more.  Ford will have a display dedicated to the electrification revolution showcasing both the Mach-E and Shelby Mach-E GT.  Patterson will be part of a Ford’s presentation that includes the Mustang Shelby GT500 and the Ford Mustang Mach-E.

In addition to the show field, the cars and trucks will hit the streets of downtown Carlisle on Saturday night for the annual Ford Parade and Street Party. Historically, nearly 400 cars from the show itself roll into town for the community to check out. There will be multiple activities that put the wheels in motion including a rolling exhaust contest, autocross ride-alongs, and the Real Street Shootout (autocross).

The Carlisle Ford Nationals is actively taking registrations for the Showfield, vendor registrations for the automotive flea market, and selling discounted spectator tickets in advance of the June 3-5 offering. Learn more about the competitions, special displays, and get involved today by calling (717) 243-7855 or online at CarlisleEvents.com.