Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
This is a highly detailed 1:18 scale die-cast replica of the legendary Shelby Cobra Daytona Coupe, finished in classic metallic Viking Blue with white racing stripes. Produced by Exoto, a brand legendary among collectors for its obsessive engineering, this model features a fully opening clamshell hood, functional doors, and a rear hatch that reveals a spare tire secured with real fabric tie-down straps.
Story
In 1964, Carroll Shelby built just six Daytona Coupes to defeat Ferrari on Europe's fastest tracks. This miniature masterpiece captures that American racing revolution with a level of detail that feels like a real garage in miniature.
Maker / Origin
Exoto was founded by Tony Keusseyan with a singular mission: to build the most detailed, museum-grade replica model cars in the world. Unlike standard toy manufacturers, Exoto treated their models like real automotive engineering projects, utilizing hundreds of individual metal, photo-etched, and rubber parts to achieve unparalleled realism.
Condition & Value
The model appears to be in excellent, dusty-but-undamaged condition with all delicate parts (wipers, fuel cap, hood latches) intact. There is no visible paint rash or zinc pest, which occasionally affects older die-cast metal. Dusting with a soft makeup brush will instantly restore its shelf appeal.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.