Vehicle Description
This 1965 Shelby GT350 SFM5S257 is known as "#257". It is one of
562 produced by Shelby-American in 1965. Sold new at Galpin Ford in
SanFernando, California. #257 has spent its entire life in
California. This Shelby has the fiberglass hood with porthole scoop
and prop rod, and #257 has the extremely rare and unique
factory-equipped parts such as steel wheels, no racing stripes, and
trunk-mounted battery location. All Shelby-specific parts are
original and or assembly line restored to this car. The High
performance 289ci V8 engine is complete with factory-installed
Shelby parts including Cobra aluminum intake manifold, Tri-y
headers, override traction bars, Koni Shocks, and aluminum valve
covers. In 2019 the Concours restoration of #257 began. Assistance
was provided by John Brown and Jeff Speegle both of whom provided
historical authenticity data for proper detailing methods as
performed at the San Jose Ford plant and Shelby American in 1965.
Other top experts from around the country were consulted to ensure
that every part of this car was documented and restored to its
original form and intent. The car was completely disassembled and
stripped to bare metal. The body was re-worked and painted in its
factory color of Wimbledon White. The drivetrain was removed,
rebuilt, and any failed or worn part was replaced with factory Ford
assembly line original parts. The interior, trunk, and
undercarriage parts were restored to the original specifications or
replaced with assembly line correct Ford/Shelby parts. The
restoration of #257 was performed with the goal to build the
highest quality and most accurately restored 1965 Shelby GT350 to
date, regardless of the cost. No expense was spared for labor,
materials, parts restoration and new assembly line/NOS parts. The
highest level of restoration for Shelby is the Premiere level.
There have only been seven 1965 Shelby GT350's restored to that
level. The quality of this Shelby restoration was recognized in
2021 when it was judged for the first time at the 46th annual
Shelby American Automobile Club. It earned the Premiere level award
in Division 1 competition. That same year in French Lick Indiana,
again received the Premiere award in Division 1 competition.
Meeting these very high expectations gives tribute to the
restorer's mindset and the team that was assembled to make this car
what it is. It is very rare for a Shelby to receive such an award,
especially getting judged for the first time.
