1 of 23: 1965 Shelby 427 Cobra Competition - Jay Leno's Garage

[@renee8474]

After. graduating high school in June 1965. I was working at Courtesy Ford in Littleton Co. They had a new 1966 Red 427- Single 4 Barrel, Cobra. The sticker was $10.000. Back then it was like a Zillion dollars. I worked in parts & the Parts manger asked me to move the Cobra. It was blocking the Parts Counter. What a Thrill. You never forget the sound of the 427 Cobra. I’m 75. Thanks Jay for the MEMORIES. Rich.

[@DIOSpeedDemon]

I saw a old marine that won the slots in 1966. He took all of his $5000 winning and bought a new, top of the line Corvette off the lot. 5 grand was alot of money in 65.

[@chasekrueger5387]

This is awesome. I am 17 and I work at courtesy Acura in Littleton. The cobra is my dream car. It is awesome to hear about courtesy all that time ago!

[@Mike-01234]

According to inflation calculator 10k in 1965 would be 100k in 2024. You could say it's about the same as a Dodge Charger hellcat, or Demon 170 which sell for around 100k. Although those were made in larger numbers I don't think they would go up in price as much as the 1960's Cobra has.

[@PatrickLilly-b1j]

Thank you, too!

[@opera93]

Thanks, yes me too; Graduating June 1965.. Thiugh, I am 77 years young now….interestingly,the “next Summer “ worked at RR DONNELLY ( WARSAW Indiana) : STACKING, printing , bagging NEW Car Brochures etc…Anyways, seen my first Cobra in 1965 also, Going Thru N. WEBSTER INDIANA, ETC.

[@sylentxtinction2097]

"This car is like driving a hand grenade." Most accurate description ever.

[@jpdj2715]

Elsewhere it's also described as "the car that wants to kill you".

[@LucoreAuto]

Have to imagine that's a ride even for someone like Jay who's done and been in just about everything still gives an honest smile and blood pressure rise.

[@larrywilliams7993]

Sylent Xtinction I HAVE A FACTORY FIVE WITH A 351 WINDSOR BLUPRINTED AND YOU SAID IT RIGHT, IT IS LIKE A HANDGRENADES. I WANTED ONE SINCE I WAS 17.

[@LucoreAuto]

@@larrywilliams7993 I think there are probably 3 or 4 generations of "car guys" that have dreamed of having one of these things for their very own

[@sylentxtinction2097]

@@larrywilliams7993 - The Factory 5 was going to be my 2nd one, so I didn't have pins and needles driving the first. I put the order in for mine with Shelby, when they first came out with their exclusive 427 aluminum small block casting. back around 2003. It was ordered with an aluminum body, 6spd sequential trans, and helical diff. Carrol had agreed to both autograph the car AND provide prior ownership with a contingency plate. It literally would've been a 1-of-1. The only one with a sequential, the second to be ordered with a helical diff. Sadly, after a stay in the hospital and some illfated decisions concerning poor choice in women, I cancelled the order. I had the pleasure of driving a Factory Five with a 427 Clevor block. Absolutely insane. Shelby was right. If Ford hadn't been so obsessed with their 427 side oiler, the Cobra could've been a much better car.

[@areyousureyouenteredyourna85]

That has to be the meanest sounding exhaust in the history of time!

[@danmyers9372]

The Harley Davidson of cars.

[@joebrown1382]

@@danmyers9372 Right you can't replicate the sound. Many have tried.

[@ericbitzer5247]

@@danmyers9372 I always thought that too!

[@eggbirdtherooster]

One of the greatest cars ever made.. The electric future is cold and soulless.. 😔

[@ericbitzer5247]

@@eggbirdtherooster So true. Well said.

[@dynamicmotorsports804]

I'm the oldest, authorized Shelby Cobra dealer in the world and know them well. To clarify Jay's comments, there is no fuel level gauge in the 427S/C ("Semi-Competition"). Under normal operating conditions, fuel was delivered to the carburetor from the engine-driven mechanical fuel pump. When the fuel tank was almost empty, the engine would sputter and the fuel pressure would drop - a disconcerting experience. Flipping a toggle switch on the instrument panel fired up the electric fuel pumps. The fuel pick up for the electric pumps is deeper in the tank (or fuel cell on a 427S/C) than the pick up for the mechanical, engine-driven pump. This acted as a reserve, providing enough fuel to travel to the closest gas station, or back to the pit box for refueling. As a side bar, I was station manager for an NBC-TV affiliate in the early 90's. During my tenure, Jay graciously accepted an invitation to fly down and spend an evening with our clients. What a delightful guy. He couldn't have been any nicer or more cordial. Due to his schedule, I didn't have an opportunity for an lengthy discussion of our shared passion for classic cars. Since retiring from broadcasting in 1999 to play with toys, I've been one of the lucky few that made their hobby a business. Although I miss the good old days of television, I've never had more fun in my life.😃

[@jamescosby2343]

Loved, loved your comment and your experience with C.S. 427 Cobra! ❤ this automobile! Many Thanks! I'm 72 by the way! God Bless you!

[@paulciprus9582]

The actual side oiler has an additional oil galley down the drivers side block..which fed oil to the upper valve train…I know…because I drilled that oil galley on a horizontal boring mill…these were marine blocks converted to 427 side oilers..the factory blocks were the Same way.

[@keastymatthew2407]

​@@jamescosby2343 Wtf. stop saying your 72😂 no 1 cares

[@jamescosby2343]

@@keastymatthew2407 : take a Valium and chill-out dude.

[@keastymatthew2407]

@@jamescosby2343 ok

[@ZombieWilfred]

When a British built body gets an American muscle engine... One of the most beautiful cars of all time is born.

[@johnlever6696]

That’s a British built body?

[@ZombieWilfred]

@@johnlever6696 Yeah, AC cars is the British company, they made sweet roadsters and Shelby asked them to build a body for him that would accept a V8. AC would export basically completed cars minus engine and gearbox which Shelby would then put in.

[@johnlever6696]

@@ZombieWilfred no way that’s amazing. I didn’t know that. I didn’t know what AC was.

[@johnlever6696]

@@ZombieWilfred just read about it. It’s the AC Ace. Then Shelby made it the cobra. Apparently the car that’s to blame for the 70mph limit on motorways after one was caught doing 190mph hahaha. Crazy stuff.

[@ZombieWilfred]

@@johnlever6696 Yeah that's them, I love these old stories. A guy who was awesome at making fast cars gets ahold of some Brits who make sweet bodies and is like send some me of those that'll take a V8, finds the company that'll hook him up with the engines and the rest is history.

[@concernedcitizen2766]

That Cobra sounds like a WWII vintage airplane when it starts. Jay’s right, it’s visceral, both in driving and hearing it.

[@vtr0104]

As a foreigner, it's fascinating to me how the gig three managed to take the V8 and make it their own. Fords, Chryslers and Chevys all sound different, even when at similar displacements. I know Ford also used a different firing order for theirs, maybe that's why this thing sounds so good, and even the old Flatheads have this deep burble, almost how like Marine engines sound....

[@JCDenton95]

@@vtr0104 nothing like American V8s 🇺🇸

[@richardbonfiglio1765]

@@JCDenton95 I feel naked unless I'm sporting at least eight cylinders.

[@johnjenkins8782]

I was thinking it sounded like an old cackling dragster from the 60's when it was idling.

[@Ford_Raptor_R_720hp_V8]

*Cobra Test Drive* kzbin.info/www/bejne/q5zbmayXqtlgoLs

[@R1j0hn]

Possibly THE most iconic sports car EVER... Gorgeous.

[@Gravy_Master]

That is quite the statement I must say, even though I do absolutely love the car. An iconic car of its time for sure, but when we start talking all-time I think that’s a bit generous.

[@bigredc222]

@@Gravy_Master Jaguar E type, 1963 split-window Corvette.

[@marcd7332]

300 sl gullwing too

[@bukkuk5949]

@@Gravy_Master .. so name one .. U comment is empty this way ... ... Most iconic : Maybe .. Ford GT .. Ferrari 308 / F40 .. Porsche Carrera GT .. Gullwing and E-type are good examples ...

[@bukkuk5949]

@@frenchonion4595 if UFO came here .. -) .. and the ask as .. what is a 'sports car' .. ? .. what woild U show them .. ? .. -) .. Lambo Countach ..or. Veyron not so so .. but F40 and Mc F1 good example ... but still they are sort of supercars .... I think more like performance for people : 911 .. Corvette .. this Cobra ... but to choose 1 specific car that is the 'definition' of a sports car ...

[@Krazee4honda]

The Shelby Cobra 427 and the Ford GT40 were two of the most beautiful cars ever built. Coming from a GM guy...

[@sjf1981]

Add a old jag and muira and these are the 4 most beautiful cars ever

[@MS-mr4zm]

Same. 100%

[@marcog1742]

@@sjf1981 sorry but the most beautiful car ever built is a 1955 Mercedes Benz 300 slr uhlenhaut coupe, also faster

[@marcog1742]

So make that 5 most beautiful cars ever built lol

[@sjf1981]

@@marcog1742 ohhhh forgot about that one! Yes I agree !

[@Gamm-one]

Love how there’s no music playing. Just the sound of the car. Good format

[@1lyonman766]

Don't need much else with Jay... He is the show!... Be well & God bless y'all.

[@donjones4719]

Jeez, yes. Cars shows with background music while the car is being driven make me scream at the screen.

[@SkyrimChicken]

The car is music

[@gzuzsavz]

Comment of the year award! I so loathe the constant music on car shows..epsecially when they make it louder for when the featured cars will be started & driven! Ugghh..if i wanted to hear some generic, lame guitar riffs, id do that. Rant over, lol.

[@cbrvo8440]

Engine + exhaust = Music.

[@literallyshaking8019]

Probably the best sounding idle chop I’ve ever heard

[@KutWrite]

Reminds me of the radial engine in my Navy T-28 trainer.

[@4seeableTV]

Almost sounds like it's about to stall. I know it's not, but on many cars, that's the sound you'd hear right before it cuts off.

[@Garf2O]

@@4seeableTV probably what you hear on alot of clapped out V8 cars because the tune the owner used is horrible imao

[@j.osborne4914]

Yeah the 427 side oiler has a distinctive idle note in those cobras imo

[@lukemeier1853]

@@j.osborne4914 it's not just the idle, at higher RPMs they scream in a particular way. They sound different because the firing order is set up like a NASCAR engine so they sound like a race car. You can look it up.

[@bluespig1]

Thanks to Jay, the owner, but to most of all, Carroll Shelby for his vision and tenacity.

[@stevek8829]

It's an English AC sports car with a Ford engine swapped in. Other people put American V-8s into other British sports cars as well. But you think it's 'vision' because you don't know how many others there were.

[@acptelford1307]

Thanks to AC UK

[@jlim9411]

@@stevek8829 all those “other people” didn’t leave the kind of lasting impact on the automotive world like Carroll Shelby did. He did a lot more than just put a big engine in a British sports car. The man won Le Mans in an inferior Aston Martin and then went on to help Ford build one of the greatest race cars of all time. All while designing and building some of the greatest American automotives to ever exist. Even if he wasn’t the only one who did it, no one else accomplished what he did with those kinds of projects. The cobra won the national championships the first year they made it and has gone on to become one of the most iconic cars of all time and the original cars are now worth several million dollars a piece today. That’s why we remember his name over the the “many others” you’re so stuck up about. Show a little respect.

[@69JayBee]

How's an Aston inferior if it won the le Man?

[@jlim9411]

@@69JayBee at the time, the Astons were considered inferior to the Ferraris and other teams that were racing that year. They arguably still are. Carroll Shelby said himself in an interview that they went out there that year knowing that their cars were slower, but they also knew that their team was better prepared and had a few tricks up their sleeves that helped them make up the difference. Just look up the video: “Carroll Shelby in his own words”

[@davethompson3140]

Even Jay, with one of the finest automotive collections, knows how lucky he is to be taking a ride in a real Shelby race car.

[@patkaczmarek7362]

This car is the epitome of 1960's supercar. So raw and unapologetic. Love it.

[@bricefleckenstein9666]

It's one step short. Carroll built those 2 SUPERCHARGED 427 Cobras after all....

[@ٴ-ق1ت]

​@@bricefleckenstein9666 the infamous super snake cobra

[@bricefleckenstein9666]

@@ٴ-ق1ت 1 now, the other crashed and apparently is not recoverable.

[@komododragon4242]

Jay, that car is you. That sunset was killer on that perfect black paint. Sounds awesome.

[@BCHonea]

My grandfather was Shelby’s landlord in Dallas so I have a special connection to these cars. My dad was just out of college in the 60’s and tells tales of him going to Shelby’s shop down on University and Greenville in Dallas to look at all the cars they were working on and tuning. Dad says Shelby offered JC (grandpa) a cobra if he could get 6 months rent abated and my grandfather laughed at him. Whose laughing now Pappy!!!?

[@ChiIeboy]

"Whose laughing now Pappy!!!?" Not Carroll Shelby - he's dead.

[@LuigiRandazzo21]

Man, you'll never inherit a cobra, just $3,000 from rent

[@Bricklinsv1970]

Probably the Holy Grail of street cars.

[@Cheggley45]

No doubt!

[@MichaelMitchell-eo6cb]

A few Ferraris and Lamboa also.

[@MrZotteltier]

That engine sound is incredible

[@joebrown1382]

Even the idle is beautiful.

[@lewgoogle5530]

A kid I knew in college (1965) bought two of these (rich kid, of course). He drove one around our college town often. Knowing that I was already a car guy, I remember when he stopped by my fraternity house to show me his beast. While we talked, he was sitting in the car with the engine at idle. The sound was so intense that I could hardly hear him, and we both had to shout. The bodywork was vibrating visibly, or I should say "pulsating", with the door gaps opening and closing with the revs. Later in his life, he raced one of his 427SCs in Texas, crashed, and was badly burned over part of his face. He still owns one of his two and still bears the scars of his racing accident.

[@machtschnell7452]

Was he at UT? Remember a guy had a yellow one just N of campus and it would just sit out all night. Could not do that these days.

[@SheepInACart]

@@machtschnell7452 $6,100usd in 1965 is worth about $50,000 in 2020, so while it was expensive relative to other cars when new, it wasn't something to be babied, instead for those initial owners it was more like leaving a modern base spec f150 parked out overnight than the $2.5million dollar supercar its become to the current audience.

[@sabyasachiroy7482]

Now that's a cobra owner But still im glad he is okay

[@crissignori7482]

now that's a story

[@deaconblue5994]

@@sabyasachiroy7482 - True car/bike guy. Wrecks vehicle. Sitting there bleeding with broken bones. First question? How's my car/bike?

[@alanberickson]

When he gets his foot into it that has to be just about the best car sound I've ever heard.

[@MasterMalrubius]

When he started that thing I'd expect any combat veteran to dive into the nearest ditch.

[@stevepick9527]

I have a story from way back in 1967. I’m 75 now and used to live in Flagstaff Arizona. During the summer we’d go down to Sedona (Oak Creek Canyon) to slide rock back then you could park on the side of the road and go down the hill. One day we went and there was a red Cobra 427 parked there. I was in the cars and found the guy who owned it, and he gave me a ride through the canyon in it! I will never forget that ride, wow what a car. The sounds and visceral feeling of at all… what a memory!

[@jerrycraig6522]

And that's one of reasons we love Jay so much, ALL of HIS cars get used and even some other people's cars, I'm so envious of all the cars he drives not to mention owns!!! Jay, Mr Leno, you are a true "regular" man, car enthusiast, and hot rodder!!! In my mind, no higher compliment!!!

[@muskokamike127]

That's the thing about Jay: the only reason some of his cars don't get driven is because he's got so many, not because they are garage queens. It is bad driving a car TOO much but it's just as bad not driving it enough. There's a video around of a 1978 pontiac firebird that was found at a dealership with only 4 miles on it. It has the original plastic on the seats, stickers all over, etc etc and it needs to be completely redone because everything is seized and or rotten due to lack of use. I bet the rings are seized as well. I forget the exact duration but I seem to recall a "pro" saying that an engine should be run up to temp at least once a month and driven at least a couple of miles every 6 months to keep things moving.

[@DanEBoyd]

Jay is Car God!!!

[@stevenkaskel3469]

I was once at the Nethercutt museum. The curator was giving us a tour. He said, "every one of these cars runs perfectly. I know because I drive them" It was awesome and perfect the way he said it.

[@gordocarbo]

@@stevenkaskel3469 He really does. Worked a few minutes from his Museum for about 10 yrs...right behind old san fernando road where we street raced ea Saturday night. Guys who really believe not driving is "preserving"....oh its climate controlled....are clueless. Vette crowd does this a lot. I do not get it...esp late models. They arent rare collectible etc

[@popeyeman69]

Many have said it before this, including myself, but these "Pandemic" episodes are my favorite. They're on a more personal level than the normal episodes. The glorious noise that 427 makes makes the hair stand up, and it needed some exercise, so glad you took us for a ride

[@snuscaboose1942]

Agree, "Pandemic" episodes are the best

[@ChrisPBacon9]

Reminds me of he first episodes of Jay Leno's garage

[@mezzeta]

agree

[@CountryHombre]

More like going back to his old way of videos. Old and better way.

[@ChrisG1392]

My 95 year old Grandpa loves this channel.. he's been binge watching for days now and wanted to find out how to donate some money to Jay for all the hard work that he does.. thanks for keeping him (and us) entertained!

[@Redmenace96]

Jay is loaded. Don't worry about, 'keeping the channel going'. Ha, ha!

[@matthewdowd4686]

@@Redmenace96 ikr he definitely does not need donations!

[@1STGeneral]

Your comment is entertaining I've always enjoyed Mr. Leno's informative videos but to see how he's been neutered to stay accepted in the media world really saddens me.

[@DJ-xl8xh]

Great gesture grandpa, but your being entertained is what Hickok45 is all about ... just enjoy!!

[@RandyTheWildHorse]

lenosgarage.com

[@jeffjohnson895]

The most beautiful exhaust roar in automotive history.

[@shirishhirekodi6913]

12:41 pickup and sound so good even Jay is at a loss for words. “Yeah. Yeah”

[@SiikPros]

12:37 Jay's smile after this small pull will tell you everything you need to know about the car.

[@maggs131]

Jay is such a child. As we all should be. Few people realize how 450hp in a 2000 lb car can get away from you sooo easily. And it's 2.5 million. 😱

[@jameszimmerman6430]

I remember reading a car magazine article back then about the 1st 427 Cobra. They were cruising at 90 mph when a 140 mph Porsche blew by. The driver downshifted to 3rd and punched it. The Cobra "did a half a donut" and the Cobra just about sucked the doors off of the Porsche. I was so impressed I still remember it all of these years later.

[@JeffW77]

I saw an article maybe early '70s by the great automotive journalist Tony Hogg. I can't remember the setup, but the punch line was "and that is why I have the Cobra." And--I saw a Shelby AC Cobra at a local Ford dealership in about 1972. Parked on the lot like any other car. I knew it was cool, but I didn't "get it" at the time. Great memory.

[@johnlogsdon9810]

Imagine driving down the road and Jay Leno pulls up next to you in a black Cobra

[@bobjohnson205]

I was behind Jay one time when he was driving a black Ferrari. That was special! ;)

[@scottrauth8219]

I was thinking the exact same thing!

[@maroosk]

I do 😍😍😍

[@kenmount294]

I'm sure out in his area they see him alot. They're probably like..there goes Jay, adding another car to his collection 😁

[@18kehawkin]

I can imagine it. Then I can imagine leaving in the dust in this death can. Fast for the day as well as extremely prone to accidents. Today’s cars would smoke this 2.5 million dumpster fire.

[@BrianGlassEOD]

Thanks Jay for letting me come as close to driving my dream car as I'll ever get. There's something so special about the fact that it's an original one also.

[@TeddyRumble]

Kirkham motors make a Shelby based on the original blueprints. You can get a 289 version for about $250k. Shelby considers it a true continuation cobra. Aluminum, not fiberglass.

[@gordocarbo]

@@TeddyRumble Id rather have glass, or steel. Alum, you have to be too careful with. Heck id take a dented one long as it had that big block!

[@dennisc.1189]

That is a beautiful car, I'm glad it was saved from the fires.

[@jasoneverley8164]

The paint is deeeeep !

[@LucoreAuto]

There can't be many cars that can put such an honest smile on Jay's face after everything he's driven and experienced. Great to see him sharing this adventure with us, most of us who will never even get a chance to see one of these much less drive one! Thanks Jay!

[@larrywilliams7993]

Lucore Auto and LucoreRacing IF YOU WANT TO READ MY STORY GO TO THE COMMENTS "SYLENT EXTINCTION" . IMHAVE WANTED ONE THESE FOR OVER 50 YEARS AND MY FACTORY FIVE IS A HIGH DOLLAR BUILD WITH A BLUPRINTED 351 WINDSOR 460HP (ENGINE FACTORY-NJ) INDIGO BLUE WITH WIMBLETON WHITE RACING STRIPES, BF. GOODRICH TIRES IN AUTHENTIC HALLIBRANDS, BLACK LEATHER SEATS, POWER STEERING, POWER BRAKES , HEATER, TREMEC 600 5SP., DISC BRAKES. I CAME HOME FROM BOOT CAMP NOV. 1963 AND WENT TO THE DOWNTOWN FORD DEALER AND IN THE WINDOW WAS A SC 427, BRITISH RACING GREEN, THE TAG ON ITBWAS $6, 618, I WAS A NEW SAILOR (NOT KNOWING I WAS GOING OFF TO ( WAR AUGUST 1964) AND MADE $83.00 A MONTH SO I WALKED AWAY TRYING TO FIGURE HOW ANYBODY COULD AFFORD THAT, AS THE YEARS PASSED THE THOUGHT, BUT 50 YEARS LATER IT WAS RESURRECTED, AND I KNOW HAVE ONE. JAY LENO SAYS THAT IT IS FUN TO DRIVE AN AUTHENTIC AC SC COBRA, BUT I KNOW TWO OR THREE IN THE SAN FRANCISCO BAY ARE WHO HAVE THEM, BUT THEY ARE SHOW CARS THE DRIVE ONCE OR TWICE A YEAR, JAY OWNS SOME OF THE REPLICAS. ALTHOUGH THERE ARE MANY COMPANIES THE REPLICATE THEM, SOMETHING IS 'ALWAYS TP PERFECT, THEY GET THE HOOD WRONG, OR THEY BASTARDIZE THE COLOR AND PUT "ROGER RABBIT"WHEELS ON THEM. THEY WERE CRUDELY MADE AND ROUGH, BUT THE BEAT THE HELL OUT OF EVERYTHING MADE OUT THERE. ITBIS THE MOST ICONIC CAR I HAVE EVER OWNED, YOU CAN'T GET OUT OF A GAS STATION WITHOUT PEOPLE WANTING TO,TAKE PICTURE, AND THE OLDER GUYS THAT REMEMBER THEM, GET TEARS IN THEIR EYES. AND BRINGS BACK MEMORIES OF THE BEAUTIFUL YOUNG GIRLS OF THAT ERA THAT LOVED CARS WITH US AND MEMORIES OF YESTERYEAR. NEVER STOP DREAMING, GOD HAD THIS ON A 5by8 CARD HE PULLED AT A TIME WHEN I WAS BORED WITH LIFE. HE NEVER FORGETS A YOUNG BOY'S TEARS AND DISAPPOINTMENT AND THE TIME HAD COME TO ANSWER IT. NEVER NEVER STOP DREAMING.

[@MrFister84]

@@larrywilliams7993 Jesus dude are you Autistic?

[@marcryvon]

@@larrywilliams7993 Man, stop SHOUTING ! Nobody will read your comment, Larry !

[@SirVic42]

"Jay, can we board our Cobra at your garage?" "Um, sure. Did you record the odometer reading?"

[@DiRF]

[Cameron Frye intensifies]

[@rowdybroomstick1216]

Just put it on jack stands and put it in reverse 😂 You know the movie!

[@MMitchellMarmel]

(Cue Star Wars music)

[@PhilG999]

@@rowdybroomstick1216 He he! I know the movie. I would have just disconnected the speedo/odo cable and then put it back later...

[@lewiskemp8937]

Lmao

[@mikeritchie492]

I was born in 1979 and that’s been a dream car of mine since my first cobra hot wheel when I was 3. Awesome to see this thanks for sharing it.

[@RBCharger]

OMG. Until I saw this comment, I forgot I own a Cobra race car. It is a 1/32 slot car currently stored away, but it is all mine.

[@djkota8849]

@@RBCharger and if you did forget about it your trash mate

[@davidzplace2011]

Same here, no chance of getting one, so this vid is magic thx

[@markwood9987]

Fantastic car,have you seen gumball rally 1976 ?.

[@mikeritchie492]

@@markwood9987 yes amazing

[@daveman_50]

My family moved to Austin, Texas in 1966 when I was 10 years old. Our backyard neighbor had a Shelby Cobra. I didn't know much about cars, but I knew that was very special. I can still hear the sound of that engine. The owner moved away not long after and that was when I subscribed to Road & Track, Car & Driver and Hot Rod. I've always wondered what happened to that car. Fond memories.

[@stevenkaskel3469]

I subscribed to R&T for 40 yrs and loved every issue but cancelled a few years ago after they totally changed the soul of the magazine.

[@markcook7371]

My father sold fords as I was growing up in the 60s. I spent hours sitting in AC Cobras and Shelby Mustangs waiting for Dad to get off of work. Thank you Jay for these great videos.

[@moparedtn]

Dude's got a tough gig, eh? :-) Seriously, your "Jay is a good steward of the hobby" moment occurred when he told the story of how the owner asked him to keep it safe for him for a little while. He didn't have to do that - and yes, there are some serious liabilities to agreeing to do such, especially for a stranger - but Jay saw a fellow enthusiast with a SERIOUSLY low number car in need of help and I bet he didn't hesitate one moment in offering to help. Just a really nice side benefit that we all got invited along for the ride, too. Always is with Jay. :-) -Ed on the Ridge

[@moparedtn]

Can't assume that - it might have been a decades-long project done shoestring budget style. Heck, Jay's boys may be making a buck cleaning the thing up for the owner - or Jay may have simply volunteered to help out a good friend. We simply don't know... Regardless, what I stated applies.

[@buckminsterfullerene11]

My goodness is that beautiful. 🖤

[@edlopez5k]

My favorite car since childhood. Had posters of it in my bedroom. Still have a 1:18 model of it in the master bedroom in my house. Thanks for giving the Cobra the respect it deserves.

[@checkheck8875]

My all time favorite car. This car got me hooked on being a "car guy".

[@jimlevitt5522]

Cal. has already died. I lived out there near 50 years ago. It ain't the same, not even close!

[@09roushsupercharged26]

Domination by innovation! This car was, is and shall always be in a class of its own. WICKED!

[@williamwintemberg]

I will remember this video for the rest of my life. I have never seen one of these, heard one running or gone for a ride along. I know a video isn't the same but I'll take it. I only knew they existed. I can't say Thank You enough Jay!

[@BradThePitts]

Well if you are ever in Los Angeles, I plan Shelby Cobra events that draw as many as 50 of them at a time. The passenger seat would be yours. It's a real thrill leading a pack of Cobras around town and through the mountains. You should be able to find at least one video of a small event I organized on my channel.

[@williamwintemberg]

@@BradThePitts Thanks for your kind offer Brad. It is something to think about. It's not every day one gets an offer like this.

[@amjrpain919]

I live vicariously through Jay Leno's garage. Thanks Jay for making it possible!

[@rywolf01]

Someone 200 years from now is going to find one of Jay's hairs in that car and clone him. I was never a fan of the show that made you famous, but I can't stop listening to your automobile wisdom and love you on last man standing. Thank you for your automotive wisdom. Certainly wish I had your vision! The nonchalant expression, "sounds pretty good". Awesome.

[@lewgoogle5530]

A friend of mine in college had a real SC that he used to drive around the small town of Amherst, MA. I remember trying to have a conversation with him over the sound of the engine at idle. First of all, every body panel was visibly vibrating. Second, the sound was exactly as the sound of this car in the video. That was 1965. I am hearing it again with perfect clarity 55 years later. He now lives north of LA and last I saw him claimed to still own the SC. He actually owned two of them at one point after college.

[@jonnyb2532]

The reason Jay's show is so great is because *Jay is such a great guy.* He's loaded but he never Ritzes us.

[@joeday4293]

You can tell when a guy has not forgotten where he comes from, and Jay Leno has obviously not forgotten living in his car when he first came to LA.

[@anthonygordon9483]

@@joeday4293 Hey actually use to ride his harley on comedy tours around the country. Jay was collecting bikes and cars before he got the tonight show. He built his garage to put his existing cars in. He isn't the richest man in hollywood. By far from it. He just spends his money on cars. Plain and simple. He puts more money in his garage then he does his wife and house. He is a true car fanatic.

[@patrickd1805]

if im having a bad day…i watch one of your vids and everything just seems better jay ! thank you

[@merrymiller6990]

You are so right! I just got an emotional boost watching Jay's pantera program with his expert, Mike. Uplifting, all of it.

[@jasongilbert2379]

Jay Leno is such an Awesome Guy to show us these BEAUTIFUL CARS and actually drive them!!!

[@Cristobal_Ygnacio_Arriaga]

One of my favorites vehicles the way it looks and sounds, oh my god, the SOUND that it makes it’s from heaven. I think at some point I will get a replica

[@gwiz2073]

I was 16 in 1980 growing up in San Diego and was hanging out in my dads hanger at Montgomery Field when I heard something thundering coming at us. I peaked out and there was an all original 427 Cobra, amazing car. My absolute favorite since then. Thanks Jay.

[@musicsnob4226]

We love you jay! Jay has always been a class act. No bs stuff off set. his show was legendary. his stand up was clean but still very funny, but most importantly you were happy for all his success because hes a really nice guy and because he spent it the way any true car guy would. Nothing to be envious of. Only pure admiration. My hats off to you sir.

[@jbau4985]

Great handle "Anti Woke". Lovin' It !!

[@993GUY]

I loved the fact that you respect that the Cobra is someone else's car, a rare one at that and treated it and the owners with respect. And thank you for taking it in when it needed a secure home for a few days.

[@DJ-xl8xh]

A “one of 23” presented by a “one of a kind”!! .... Thanks Jay for your passion and grace ... !!

[@mcgyvernewone2014]

Every time I see a cobra it stops me in my tracks! It's seriously beautiful piece of art.

[@scottslotterbeck3796]

My Dad paid almost that much for his decked out Ford in the late 60s. He could have bought a brand new Cobra. Wow.

[@sfbfriend]

This car is my favorite, always has been, always will be! We are fortunate to have had Carrol Shelby for as long as we did. They way Leno smiles when he accelerates says it all. The best line to me that truly describes the car " Its like driving a hand grenade" priceless.

[@Hillclimbfan1990]

You can hear how much respect he has for this thing. Also that sound is amazing

[@admiral06472]

Great job Jay. I always look forward to your posts. By the way, the "bumpers" on the competition models were designed to receive a long handled lever jack for raising the car in the pits. Thanks again!

[@joebrown1382]

Yeh the half circles on the bottom.

[@dennisrobles7231]

The sound of that 427, the huge pipes out the side, the lines of the car and it's history is what makes this my dream car. It's just obscenely beautiful. Thanks Jay!!

[@rcmakingtracks18]

Its like driving a hand grenade. Brilliant Jay. Thanks so much, the car is breath taking, in every respect. John

[@Roadstar1602]

I was a teenager in the 80s when I first became aware that this car existed. It instantly became my ultimate dream car.

[@joshuasteele4498]

I have so many “favorite” cars, but the 427 Cobra is the only one that don’t have to pause to think about when naming them off. It would be a terrible daily driver, but WOW, what a Saturday afternoon runner!! What an amazing machine.

[@beboboymann3823]

The most exciting car ever built.

[@johnalvitre3154]

I am a child of 1969. This has been and always will be my favorite car. My step-brother loved Corvette, and his dad had a 1965 with the hard and soft tops. But it never peaked my interest as did the actual Shelby Cobra. Also, I loved seeing Jay Leno talk about this car and then get that smile and appreciation for this car. It is great to see you still get excited about a car as you have such an extensive collection. Thank you for this beautiful video. Safe driving,

[@dcallan812]

fantastic to see the car being used as a car, not just laid up in a museum with on fluids or batteries.

[@Rek_Rc]

The most purely savage , most ferocious, beautiful, and meanest car ever assembled by human hands.

[@davidstoyanoff]

I would try call you out for exaggerating but nope

[@bradhuskers]

I believe that "Road&Track" just gave this car NUMBER ONE out of the all time great sports cars. That's really saying something.

[@bobjohnson205]

It was great to see it running fast with the Ferrari in 'The Gumball Rally'! ;)

[@18kehawkin]

You must be trapped inside a room somewhere watching 60s and 70s reruns. In the actual world today, dozens of cars will trounce this car and they get better gas mileage and are a hell of a lot safer than this death can!

[@MNH81B]

You mean by American.

[@froey198033]

One of the most beautiful cars ever invented. Jay is a very lucky guy. There aren't to many people that can say I got to drive a 1965 Shelby Cobra ac. He's a lucky dude.

[@rickh8380]

This car is what dreams are made of. Thanks Jay for the ride.

[@mdub1955]

My all-time, no close seconds, favorite automobile... and that is an understatement. Thank you to both you and the owner for sharing it with us. A sight and sound not present often enough.

[@fitfogey]

Jay goes screaming past them the cops see the white hair and probably like “oh that’s Leno...love his garage show...pass me a doughnut.”

[@tillman002000]

😂🤣😂🤣😂

[@razzrasmussen5773]

Once in a lifetime experience. Jay you are blessed...thanks for sharing with the rest of us. I continue to learn from your channel. I do appreciate you continuing to do content during this time. This Veteran salutes you...Hooah

[@georgeharleydavidsonrider156]

The Shelby cobra’s are one of my favorite cars of all times.

[@jimparker7778]

Thanks Jay! Such a treat. Believe it or not, the FE family of Ford V8s were called "intermediate block" engines because Ford also had a family of "big block" engines that were used in Mercury's, Edsels and Lincolns. I believe the biggest FE was the 428 and the biggest MEL was the 430. The 427s were dominant in NASCAR back then.

[@sargepent9815]

My uncle has a kit AC Cobra with a 427 in her and it's absolutely insane to drive. Gets alot of looks at the shows he used to take it to and drinks 100LL AvGas since it runs 13:1 compression. Very impressive car and probably the closest I'd EVER come to riding in an original

[@966396631]

Amazing bodywork - like glass...even inside the hood!! Can you imagine the level of artistry required?

[@thesmithsmx6880]

I saw one of these, with the oiler 427, in Mexicali, México.

[@3374jj]

That smile on Jays face is priceless... Next week... Today we are looking at MY 427 cobra original...

[@mountainmandale1587]

So awesome! The car everyone wants to see Jay drive around the "block." I love this stuff!

[@lanesimpson1147]

My opinion, the coolest car he's had on the show!

[@McNabbula]

Agree. Started a replica in 98. Divorce forced sale. New wife says start buying parts

[@itsruf1]

Except half of that thing is really is modern beginning with the engine.. He was pacifying the owner.

[@michaelkersey2884]

Been my dream car for 50 + years . Thanks Jay for the ride along. 🙏🏻

[@livinthedream16]

To see Jay smile from the pure joy of driving is a testament to this car. I bet he was loving this.

[@rleeAZ]

Some folks take in livestock threatened by the fires, Jay takes in exotic cars. :)

[@temper44]

I'm betting Jay has a few security guys walking around his garage over night.

[@kenito1967]

@@temper44 ...I'm sure there's two. Zeus and Apollo. Let's see who gets that..... lol.

[@stevemcgarrett303]

I was grinning from the moment you turned her over. What an awesome car. 427 SO is incredible. And you can't beat the FE sound. Thanks for featuring it, and giving it a safe place to stay!

[@imid-ltd]

This was legendary when I was obsessed with the mastery of handwriting. Wishing you a speedy recovery. Thank you for being a friend.

[@JakebMiller]

I'm loving that you're doing these small videos of the cars. It's more personal, more relaxed. Thanks Jay!

[@christopherkraft1327]

Hey Jay, thanks again for these pandemic edition videos. It's nice to have a little bit of normal during these crazy times 😷

[@williamwinslowhansen]

What a amazingly beautiful car . I remember when for a long long time it was the fastest 0-100-0 car out there . I just watched cannonball run i mean gumball rally a week ago because I wanted to see a cobra at speed . My got this back and white snake is just so gorgeous. Every single bit of it

[@davidmcnair1455]

I remember the ads for that car. "0 to 100 mph and back to 0 in 13 seconds." Mind blowing at the time. And, it might have been with the 289 cu in engine.

[@williamwinslowhansen]

@@davidmcnair1455 it was the 427 i think the 289 was close tho it was a little lighter

[@davidmcnair1455]

@@williamwinslowhansen Thanks, Bill.

[@williamwinslowhansen]

@@Mick_A_Knuckle yes its exactly what i meant lol . i payed the price for saying dont type canon ball run over and over before commenting . lol

[@Mick_A_Knuckle]

William, I agree about Gumball Rally. Saw it on the late night TV movie in the 70s and have been a Cobra lover ever since. Although a few scenes with the Ferrari Daytona were pretty cool too.

[@13spdRoadranger]

I love it when he says it's like driving a hand grenade. I can imagine. Very neat, thanks for sharing, Jay.

[@zworsham]

I really enjoy these Pandemic episodes! Jay’s knowledge and story of each car and what intrigues him about the car has been wonderful to experience.

[@mariapires7170]

One of the most beautiful iconic car in the world, even and mainly today! Thank you Mr.Leno! Stay safe!

[@dezman56ford]

Legendary 'AC Cobra, even the name sounds lethal, yepp, a lot of us are rather envious right now.

[@siemprerosso]

Just the other day my 5 year old came up to me and asked me what true happines was. I played him this video at 12:40 and said: "See the look on this mans face? That's what true happines is, my son"

[@oliverjd26]

The first 23 seconds were amazing with the sound of that engine! I am loving these pandemic edition videos Jay!! Keep them coming!

[@jblyon2]

It really says something when you've got a priceless car to protect that you call Jay Leno. My car is nothing special, but I don't let ANYONE else drive it. I'd hand Jay the keys without a second thought.

[@mikeharlow2908]

My favorite car of all time! Thank you for taking me for a ride Jay! Just beautiful!

[@georgewillgillette]

Love the expression and smile on J's face when he opens it up a little.....You can't describe that feeling to someone.It must be experienced trust me!

[@bgood33]

Ha ha, Jay I saw you that Saturday leaving the gas station in this car cutting off that bus. Dude that was so funny! That bus driver was fuming mad laying the the horn on ya. $2.5mil and cutting through a 5-way intersection lolol, only Leno!! Thanks Man!

[@marvindebot3264]

Ah ha! He DID know how much fuel was in it!

[@marvindebot3264]

@@MrMoneyHelper Mate he's always driven like that.

[@markwright3161]

@@MrMoneyHelper That's for the camera car. Sitting directly behind them doesn't show off the car in motion very well.

[@bgood33]

Jay can drive however he wants. He is the King of the Road. I will bet he pays enough taxes to build a freeway! Most would leave LA the way they gouge the rich.

[@Leonidae]

Perfectly normal SoCal driving. Lol

[@alexpocs8649]

Jay, thank you for a view of the past. Auto history in every country is unique, and certainly USA and muscle cars are a solid part of auto history.

[@jmfasi]

Jay’s passion for the automobile is palpable and adds so much to these videos. He clearly knows his cars and all of the details that gear heads love. Well done. I now have Cobra envy!

[@Olopez24]

I enjoy that Jay loves the cars and speaks from his heart, not a script