The wraps came off the awaited Shelby Series 2 on Feb. 2 at the jetport of Naples Airport, giving the world its first look at a car in the making since 2019.
That’s how long it has been since the last edition of the custom high-power prowler, one in a line of cars permitted on streets, but oh, so happy on racetracks. Shelbys are known for their rocket power speed and race car feel, despite being convertibles. This one, however, is a coup, long and lean, with air intakes from here to Sunday and jet-silver exterior with a symmetrical set of racing stripes pinstriped in red over its entire length.
Only 10 of the cars are being built and six have sold already.
The car arrived flanked by another rarity, two Shelby motorcycles, that roared its arrival at a reception that kicked off the Naples Automotive Experience weekend, with its signature event, Cars on 5th, Feb. 3. That show, which brought in some 20,000 visitors over its 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. span last year, is considered the largest event all year on Fifth Avenue South, filled with more than 600 cars with luxury and/or intrigue, from Ferraris to vintage Nash Metropolitans.
And yes, this car will be there, too, minus the mirror- and crystal-light garbed dancers in butterfly wings who heralded its entrance.
Wristbands are available for $35 at stmatthewshouse.org and St. Matthew’s House thrift stores or $40 at the gate. It’s $125 for the premium Scuderia lounge, with food, beverages and special autos on display, this year at the Cambier Park west softball diamond.
The company has unveiled the car in its headquarters in Las Vegas, but Robert Wingard, whose company owns the licensing to the Shelby, lives on Marco Island. When Marco Island Shelby owner Greg Vilk asked if they could bring the honor to Naples he readily agreed.
The Naples Chapter of Ferrari Club of America organizes the entire Naples Automotive Experience in conjunction with the Saratoga Auto Museum, and its mission is to support St. Matthew’s House, a support and training center for people in need and in recovery. That was a cause Wingard was happy to support.
“It’s about giving back to the community,” he said.
More information on this weekend’s activities can be found in the Jan. 26 edition of The Naples Press.
