1968 Shelby Mustang GT500 KR

The evolution of the Shelby Mustang followed Fordصs evolution of the Mustang on which it was based. Only moments after the Mustang was introduced and took off in popularity it was apparent that the Muscle Car revolution was making big block power essential. After barely two years in production Ford redesigned the Mustang with a bigger engine compartment to make that possible. Shelby, being at the pinnacle of Fordصs performance offerings, seized upon the opportunity and created the GT500 with power from Fordصs 428 cubic inch Police Interceptor engine.

In 1968 Shelby Mustang production moved to Michigan both for greater efficiency and because the lease on Shelbyصs factory ran out. The workmanship and quality of the Shelby-specific fiberglass parts improved dramatically. Tuning of the 428 allowed Shelby to meet its power objectives (stated as 360hp but actually considerably more) with a single four-barrel Holley carb.

1968 also brought another important first for Shelby, the first convertibles of which only 1,124 in total were built. Only 402 of them were GT500's. Eagerly collected for years, GT500 KR convertibles are among the most sought after of all Shelby models.

This particular GT500 KR is a wonderful unrestored example that still wears its original factory paint. Fully detailed by Canepa Design, it is an ideal candidate for the Survivor class at any event, and ready to be driven on the open road.