1989 427 Butler Cobra, V8, 350 cui, (VIN 689078)
No, this is not only a "Kit Car". After Carroll Shelby stopped production of the Shelby AC Cobras 427, his head engineer Steve Arntz took over his frames, body parts, etc., and began building Cobras in 1978. Arntz was more focused on technical solutions rather than economics. He modified the frame (chassis) from a round tube frame to a box frame, making the Cobra much more stable. Additionally, he shifted the engine 10 inches towards the rear axle, resulting in improved weight distribution - 56% at the rear axle and 44% at the front axle, similar to modern mid-engine cars today. The Arntz-Cobra gained a reputation as the "best-built Cobra ever."
Arntz purchased the frames from Ron Butler, with whom he was acquainted through their mutual connection at Shelby, where Ron Butler served as Crew Chief at Carrol Shelby Inc. Arntz ultimately built a total of 63 Cobras. As a customer, you could choose between Ford or Chevy small block or big block motors for the Arntz Cobra. The version equipped with a Chevy 454 motor in 1979 was reportedly capable of reaching a speed of 316 km/h (196.53 mph).
In 1980, Steve Arntz's Californian company filed for bankruptcy. Aware of the situation, Ron Butler, who had been a supplier for Arntz Inc., decided to take over the business from Arntz. Butler continued producing cars using box frames, positioning the motors, and incorporating a Jaguar rear end and MG B front end. The option for Ford or Chevy motors remained available.
Between 1980 and 1994, Butler builds 104 cars. This particular car is number 078 (BRI689078 means built June 1989 as a number 078) out of 104. The last Butler Cobra was auctioned by Barrett-Jackson for US$200,000.00.
This car has only as less as 4,500 original mails on the odometer. A piece of history which is rare, all original and belongs to the real Carrol Shelby and Cobra related history.
