One of 1,020 Shelby GT500 Fastbacks built for 1968, this example is far rarer as 1 of 138 factory finished in Candyapple Red (Code T) paint, 1 of 88 equipped with a Black Knitted Décor interior, and 1 of 55 with a 3.50 Standard rear axle. Of them, it was 1 of just 3 so equipped and shipped new to Michigan. Completed on January 16, 1968, it was delivered to Max Curtis Ford in Lansing, Michigan. A refurbishment was performed in 2002. Following owners in Pennsylvania and Florida, we acquired this GT500 in April 2024.
Powered by a 428 CI Police Interceptor V-8 engine with functional Ram Air hood scoops, paired with a C6 three-speed automatic transmission, this GT500’s original features and options included the Extra Cooling Package, Interior Décor Group, and the Visibility Group, plus power-assisted brakes with front discs, power steering, a folding rear seat, and an AM radio, plus the GT500’s standard center console, roll bar and racing harnesses. Shelby aluminum 10-spoke, 15-inch wheels mount Shelby Cobra center caps and mount 225/60 BF Goodrich Radial T/A tires. The Special GT500 suspension system includes heavy-duty coil springs and an anti-roll bar up front with heavy-duty rear leaf springs.
The GT500’s interior features front bucket seats and a folding rear bench trimmed in black vinyl extending to the center console and door panels. Carpets and the headliner were replaced under prior ownership. Interior appointments include an AM radio and a heater, while the optional Interior Décor Group added simulated wood-grain appliqués to the dash, center console, and door panels. The Visibility Group included under-dash courtesy lights and illumination to the glove box, trunk, and engine compartment. The driver is greeted by a wood grain steering wheel, 140-mph speedometer, and an 8,00-rpm tachometer, plus gauges monitoring fuel level, coolant temperature, oil pressure, and amperage. The five-digit odometer shows approximately 5,200 miles at the time of listing and is understood to have rolled over. Total mileage is unknown.
The powerful 428 CI Police Interceptor V-8 engine mounts a four-barrel Holley carburetor and was factory-rated at 360 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque. The engine was reportedly overhauled circa 2002. Replacement components include the fuel tank and carburetor. The car was factory-equipped with a larger-capacity radiator as part of the optional Extra Cooling Package. A Cobra scripted air cleaner and rocker covers accent the engine and engine compartment, with additional highlights including rare, factory-type emissions equipment and factory-style inspection paint marks. Power is routed to the rear wheels through a three-speed automatic transmission, which the selling dealer reports was refreshed around 2002. Factory-style Red Oxide primer paint is found on the underside of the vehicle. The trunk includes a correct trunk mat and mounted spare wheel/tire.
Accompanying the GT500 is a framed Elite Marti Report listing factory production data, equipment and options, plus a reproduction window sticker and production statistics. Other highly collectible items include a document binder, books, and Shelby collectibles. Appraised value of $350,000 CAD. Canadian tax is not applicable.
