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Ilya Avakov

Shelby AC Cobra

Shelby AC Cobra

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The story of Shelby AC Cobra starts with a letter by Carol Shelby to the British company AC. The American asks if they can manufacture a car suitable for the V8 engine. The answer is positive and the celebrated Shelby Cobra is born.

It isn’t the first time when British design is combined with American muscle power. What is different about this project is that it becomes a legend.

Initially, Carol Shelby asks Chevrolet for a V8 engine but they reject the commission because GM management doesn’t want to create competition for Corvette. Ford is the next company Shelby goes to and they seem open to the idea. Luckily, Ford has a brand new V8 engine capable of becoming a Corvette challenger. The Shelby AC Cobra receives a thin wall 4.2-litre V8 Ford engine tuned for high performance. The car turns out to be a racing success.

 

 

Shelby Cobra an the 1964 Targa Florio

Targa Floria, 1964 | Photo by Dave Friedman

 

Shelby Cobra is the most loved, most feared and most copied American sportscar

Carol Shelby needs to retire from competitions - there are too many fatal incidents on the racing tracks. Also, the American also suffers from health issues. The project of creating his own car is the next step that comes naturally.

Shelby's ambition is to beat Enzo Ferrari – the dictatorial founder of the Scuderia for whom he drives during the '50s. Unfortunately, Shelby doesn’t succeed in the 24 Hours of Le Mans with the Cobra. He manages to dominate with Ford GT40 competing for his Shelby American racing team. The Snake and the Stallion is an interesting documentary by Richard Simons about Shelby and Ferrari's rivalry.

The life of the legendary Cobra sportscars has its ups and downs. During the '90s, The Los Angelis Times finds out that Carol Shelby takes advantage of a loophole in the vehicle registration procedures. The purpose is to sell brand new Cobra cars as classic builds from the '60s. Later Carol Shelby admits that it is not the AC in the UK that built the chassis but a small local engineering company hired for the job.

Artist Ilya Avakov finds inspiration in the life and works of the American automobile brute Shelby Cobra. If you are a fan as well, you can order now at Simply Petrol marketplace your Shelby AC Cobra art print.

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Ilya Avakov

Ilya Avakov, a talented artist holding a degree in Industrial Design from the Art Academy in St. Petersburg, initially embarked on a career in industrial design. However, his passion for drawing and illustrations soon led him to create digital artwork. Transitioning from the computer, he delved into genuine painting with acrylic, and currently, he primarily works with oil.

Inspiration for Avakov stems from both cars and the works of fellow artists. His creations have been featured in numerous print media, including magazines and books.

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Our prints

To meet our high-quality standards, we rely on the best available printing technology for Fine Art Reproductions and use the industry-leading printing machines made by EPSON.

  • Fine Art Print

    310 gsm · 100% α-cellulose · genuine mould-made paper

    Fine art prints are made on Hahnemühle German Etching - a white, 100% α-cellulose paper for archival standards. The mould-made etching paper features a distinct textured surface. With its premium matt inkjet coating German Etching meets the highest industry standards regarding density, colour gamut, colour graduation and image sharpness while preserving the special touch and feel of genuine art paper.

    Hahnemühle German Etching® FineArt media
    Clearly defined felt structure
    Museum quality for highest age resistance
    Certificate of Authenticity
    Security Hologram Sticker

  • Photo Matt

    180 gsm · matt-coated paper

    Premium heavyweight paper, produced in Japan, at the highest industry standards with very good stability of the printed images. Particularly suitable for printing photorealistic quality images with intense colours and uniform matt.

    Katana Photo Matt 180
    Printed on EPSON SureColor P9000
    UltraChrome HD 8-Color pigment ink

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Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to ship?

Shipping times depend on your location and the shipping method chosen during checkout.

Standard shipping within the EU usually takes 3-7 business days, while air shipping may take longer, up to 10 work days.

Since our prints are made on-demand, production times can vary. On average, it takes about 2-3 business days for production.

What materials are used?

We use high-quality materials to ensure the best possible results.

For fine art prints, we use 285 gsm German Etching Hahnemühle art paper.

Poster prints are typically printed on durable, 180 gsm heavyweight paper with a slight satin finish.

What sizes are available?

Our art prints come in various sizes to accommodate different needs and display options. 

Popular sizes include 20x14 inches, 28x20 inches, and 40x28 inches. 

These prints tend to be on the larger side and are compatible with most ready-to-use frames.

What is your return and refund policy?

We provide a 60-day, no-questions-asked return policy for all print products, unless otherwise specified on the item. To be eligible for an exchange or refund, the products must be in the same condition as when they were received.

If you wish to initiate a return or exchange, please contact us via email. For more comprehensive information, please visit our dedicated Return Policy page on our website

Do you ship internationally?

Yes, we offer international shipping to many countries worldwide.

However, please note that shipping times and customs procedures may vary.

Can I track my order?

Absolutely! Once your print is shipped, you will receive a shipping confirmation email with a tracking number. You can use this tracking number to monitor the progress of your shipment and estimate its arrival date.