1965 Shelby Cobra 289 Dragonsnake CSX2427

CSX2427 Vehicle Information and History:

• Recognized as the finest and most authentic factory-built Dragonsnake in existence
• Comprehensive documentation tracing ownership history since its initial purchase
• Painstaking restoration carried out by Steven Juliano and Dave Riley, utilizing exclusively new old stock (NOS) and original components, including tires and service items
• One of only five factory-built 289 Cobra Dragonsnakes ever produced
• The sole Stage III Dragonsnake built for a customer by the factory
• Equipped with a Stage III 289 engine featuring Weber carburetors
• Acquired by Steven Juliano in 2007
• Originally ordered by Don Reimer of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania
• Distinctive yellow paint chosen to match the color of Reimer’s Thunderbird tow car
• Enjoyed a successful racing career during the summer of 1965 before being retired
• Fitted with a 4-speed transmission
• Honored with the Premier Award at SAAC-27 in 2009
• Achieved the prestigious Division 1 Premiere Award at SAAC-34 in August 2009
• Showcased by Ford during the 50th Anniversary Cobra celebration at the 2012 Monterey Motorsports Reunion
• Featured prominently in numerous books and magazines
• CSX2427 set a record for the highest points score in SAAC judging history up to that point.

CSX2427, one of the rare factory Dragonsnake Cobras produced by Shelby American, holds a significant place in automotive history. It is one of only five factory Competition Cobras, and uniquely, the sole Stage III model with quadruple Weber carburetors. Originally ordered by Don Reimer of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, CSX2427 was delivered to him by Adams County Motors Corp in August 1964. It sported a custom yellow paint job to match the Reimer brothers’ Thunderbird tow vehicle.

The Reimer brothers wasted no time and quickly began racing CSX2427 at the iconic York U.S. 30 Drag-O-Way after some initial test runs at a local airfield. With Mike as the driver and Don managing the team, they achieved remarkable success in A/Modified and AA/Modified Production racing, including participation in the Indianapolis Nationals that same year. Their dedicated efforts featured a small crew wearing matching yellow uniforms and a stylish aluminum car hauler adorned with Cobra branding.

At the end of the season, Mike decided to return to school, leading to the decision to sell the car. An advertisement placed in the December 1965 issue of “Car and Driver” magazine showcased the Cobra’s impressive features and offered it for $4,650, along with various extras. The reason for selling was stated as Mike’s return to college.

The subsequent ownership history reveals that CSX2427 was later acquired by Doug Casey of Chesterton, Indiana, although it is unclear if he continued racing the car. Dodge Olmsted of Arlington, Virginia, became the third owner in July 1966 and modified the Cobra for road racing, competing in several SCCA events. Olmsted eventually repainted the car Candy Apple Red after repairing it from an on-track incident.

CSX2427 changed hands again in May 1969 when Harold Hammond of Ohio purchased it and subsequently sold it to Howard Heath of Columbus, Ohio. The car was repainted yellow and fitted with spline-drive wire wheels during this period. After relocating to Canada, Heath repainted the car silver.

In 1988, Peter Klutt of the Shelby Shop (later Legendary Motorcar Company) near Toronto, Ontario, acquired CSX2427 after discovering it at a car show. Klutt showcased the bare body and chassis at SAAC-18 in Watkins Glen, New York, in July 1993. Later, at SAAC-20 in Atlanta, Georgia, in July 1995, the completed Cobra made its appearance in yellow with a black interior. It featured 5-spoke American Racing wheels, a hood scoop, a chromed roll bar, and the correct Dragonsnake rear wheel well configuration.

CSX2427 achieved a Silver award in the Cobra Concours class at SAAC-20. Legendary Motorcar Company subsequently listed it for sale, emphasizing its rare factory status, documented history, low mileage, and the distinction of being “perhaps the finest, rarest Cobra in the world.”

The car was purchased by Chris Cox in 1996 and later sold to Richard Scaife. In January 2001, Scaife auctioned CSX2427, and it was acquired by Harry Yeagey, who eventually traded it to Rich Mason in April 2004. Mason converted the car back to road-racing specifications and participated in vintage racing events before selling it to Steven Juliano in February 2007.

Under the ownership of Juliano and with assistance from Dave Riley, a meticulous concours-level restoration was undertaken to bring CSX2427 back to its original Dragonsnake configuration. During the restoration, Juliano consulted with the original driver, Mike Reimer, to ensure maximum authenticity. The completed CSX2427 received the prestigious Division 1 Premiere Award at SAAC-34 in August 2009, held in Wampum, Pennsylvania. This accolade was further enhanced by CSX2427 achieving the highest points score in SAAC judging history up to that point, a testament to the late Steven Juliano’s unwavering dedication to perfection and historical accuracy down to the smallest detail.

In addition to its esteemed awards, this extraordinary Dragonsnake Cobra has been featured in numerous publications and books, solidifying its status as a true automotive icon. Ford even selected CSX2427 to be showcased in their tent during the Cobra 50th Anniversary celebration at the 2012 Monterey Motorsports Reunion held at Laguna Seca. These acknowledgments aptly befit what can unquestionably be considered one of the finest restored Competition Cobras in existence.

The tireless efforts and commitment of the late Steven Juliano, who cherished CSX2427, have ensured its enduring legacy. His unwavering pursuit of perfection and dedication to preserving its historical integrity have elevated this Cobra to the pinnacle of automotive excellence. Today, CSX2427 stands as a testament to the ingenuity and timeless allure of the Shelby Cobra lineage, captivating enthusiasts and collectors alike with its rare and storied heritage.

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