In the world of high-performance cars, few combinations are as iconic as a small car with a big engine. The Shelby Cobra is one such example, where Carroll Shelby took a lightweight AC Ace and paired it with a sizable Ford V8 to create a legendary sports car.
U.S. car dealer Jack Griffith thought he could outdo Shelby by building his own high-performance car, the Griffith 200. He used TVR Grantura chassis and slung a small-block Ford V8 under the hood, producing a car that claimed to be the world's fastest production automobile.
The Griffith 200 was never a technical masterpiece, but it was brilliant in its simplicity. With standard output of 192 horsepower from its 289, coupled with an additional 75 horses available from a high-performance engine, this 1,900-pound sports car was a wild ride.
Despite its crude finish and fibreglass shell, the Griffith 200 offered Cobra-rivalling performance at a significantly lower cost. Invoices show that a well-specified Cobra 289 in the '60s would set owners back north of $6,000, whereas the Griffith 200 started at just $3,995.
The car's low volume production and high-performance capabilities made it an attractive option for die-hard drivers who wanted something fast and unforgiving to wrestle on the weekends. Only 192 examples were ever produced, making a survivor today a rare find.
To put its performance into perspective, Shelby churned out 260 street-spec 427 Cobras, and that excludes early S/C and Competition-spec models. The Griffith 200's simplicity belies its impressive performance capabilities.
For enthusiasts of British sports cars, the Griffith 200 is an interesting footnote in history. Its legacy extends beyond its racing prowess to its impact on the automotive industry as a whole.
The Griffith 200's story serves as a reminder that sometimes it's not about being the most technically advanced or luxurious car, but rather about delivering exceptional performance at a price that's accessible to enthusiasts.
Today, owning a Griffith 200 is a rare privilege reserved for those who appreciate its unique blend of style and substance. Its value lies not only in its racing heritage but also in its status as a piece of automotive history.
For collectors and enthusiasts, the Griffith 200 represents an exciting opportunity to own a piece of high-performance car history that's both affordable and exclusive.
The Griffith 200's simplicity belies its impressive performance capabilities.
