Vehicle Description
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No Reserve Classics is honored to present our Genuine 1966 Shelby
GT350!
This Genuine 1966 Shelby GT350 stands as a shining example of
American automotive excellence, embodying the spirit of the
legendary Shelby legacy. Revered for its blend of performance and
style, this iconic vehicle has undergone a meticulous restoration,
enhancing both its classic appeal and performance capabilities.
With its striking Sapphire Blue exterior complemented by bold
Wimbledon White accents, this GT350 captures attention from every
angle, radiating the charisma that has made it a favorite among
collectors and enthusiasts alike. The car's design showcases the
timeless aesthetics of the era, featuring a restored exterior that
retains its authentic charm, ensuring it stands out whether on the
road or at car shows.
Beneath the hood lies a powerhouse: a robust 347 cubic inch engine
based on the 302 Ford SVO Race Block, generating an astonishing
total output of 586 horsepower and 435 lb-ft of torque. This
upgraded engine is equipped with a Scat Billet crankshaft, Oliver
5.4L connecting rods, and Stage 2 Canfield aluminum heads, ensuring
peak performance. The engine's thrilling power is complemented by
features such as 13:5:1 compression Arias Speed-Master pistons and
a Crane flat-tappet camshaft, providing an exhilarating driving
experience. With a top speed of 161 mph and quarter-mile times of
just 11.8 seconds, this Genuine 1966 Shelby GT350 is not just a
nostalgic classic but a formidable presence on the track.
The exterior is further enhanced by a 1965 GT350R NOS R-Model front
apron, improving aerodynamics and giving the car a competitive
edge. The vehicle sits on 16x8-inch Phil Schmidt Engineering
five-spoke wheels, wrapped in 245/45/ZR-16 BFGoodrich G-Force
Sport, ensuring both style and grip. The rear-mounted brand new
Optima Red Top battery contributes to the balanced weight
distribution, while the 245-wide tires in all four corners provide
exceptional traction.
The upgraded suspension, crafted by Joe McCarthy, incorporates
Maier Racing competition springs and Koni shocks, ensuring
exceptional handling and stability. An advanced braking system,
featuring R-Model rear drums and competition-grade components,
delivers unparalleled stopping power. This vehicle is designed to
conquer corners and straightaways with ease, making every drive
both thrilling and composed.
The interior of this Shelby is a perfect fusion of vintage charm
and modern safety. Thoughtful upgrades, such as an original Shelby
six-point roll bar and Simpson safety harnesses, reinforce its dual
nature as both a show car and a performance machine. The cockpit
features an original Shelby tachometer and Autometer gauges,
ensuring that the driver remains in tune with the vehicle's
performance metrics. The Hurst 4-speed shifter adds to the
authentic driving experience, allowing enthusiasts to engage fully
with this iconic car.
Additional interior features include a fully restored cabin with
original floors, fenders, doors, and quarter panels, complemented
by a Carroll Shelby signed dash and a seat-mounted fire
extinguisher with H3R mount for added safety. The thoughtful design
extends to a Tony Branda fiberglass rear seat delete, providing a
clean and focused racing environment.
With a history of show-winning accolades and proven track
performance, this Genuine 1966 Shelby GT350 transcends the realm of
mere transportation. It is a symbol of automotive passion and
engineering prowess, inviting enthusiasts to experience the raw
thrill of driving a true classic.
History:
The Unique Legacy of 1966 Shelby GT350
The story of the 1966 Shelby GT350, known by its captivating
journey through time that showcases both the spirit of American
muscle and the dedication of its caretakers. With a history steeped
in racing and craftsmanship, this particular Shelby has become a
legend among enthusiasts and collectors alike.
A Racing Heritage:
Originally crafted for speed and performance, This Shelby began its
life as a road-going marvel, gracing the streets as an occasional
driver and show car. Over the years, it cycled through various
configurations, sporting both automatic and 4-speed transmissions,
before finding its true calling in the mid-1980s. Under the
meticulous care of Bob Cloutier from Denver, the car was
transformed into a purpose-built vintage racer. Cloutier recognized
the potential of this storied machine, dedicating himself to honing
its capabilities for the track.
Iconic Drivers:
One of the most thrilling chapters in the history of this Shelby
came in the 1990s when the legendary Carroll Shelby himself took
the wheel, accompanied by noted racer Chuck Canfield, during an
event at Road America. This moment not only underscored the car's
pedigree but also connected it to the very roots of Shelby's racing
legacy, affirming its status as more than just a machine; it became
part of automotive history.
A New Chapter Begins:
Fast forward to July 2002, when the excitement of the annual Shelby
meeting in Ontario, California, set the stage for a new chapter in
its life. It was at the SAAC 27 convention that the opportunity to
acquire this exceptional Shelby presented itself. Just hours before
the event concluded, its then-owner hinted at a desire to sell.
With time slipping away, and the competition for this gem heating
up, a decision had to be made swiftly.
Enthusiast and collector Dan Cundiff, accompanied by Mustang expert
Pete Geisler, dove into a whirlwind evaluation of the car. In a
mere hour, they took a test drive and sealed the deal, leaving a
deposit that would pave the way for a journey back to Denver in
three weeks-a thrilling gamble that would soon pay off.
Racing Performance:
What makes this Shelby truly special isn't just its racing history;
it's the remarkable preservation and care it has received. Bob
Cloutier treated this Shelby like a cherished jewel, ensuring it
avoided the common pitfalls of neglect and misuse. The car has
mostly lived as a "garage queen," emerging only for open track
sessions and speed events in the Denver area.
With all original sheet metal intact, this GT350 retains the
essence of its heritage while being fine-tuned for performance. The
car boasts a best quarter-mile time of 11.8 seconds, and in recent
outings, it was clocked at an impressive 150 MPH on the backstretch
of California Speedway.
While the original engine has long since departed, It now boasts a
formidable SVO race 302 R block engine, engineered to thrive at
high RPMs and capable of producing an astounding horsepower output.
The extensive collection of wheels and exhaust configurations-from
open headers to vintage-style side exhaust-ensures that it can be
tailored to any driver's preference.
A Lasting Legacy:
Its not just another Shelby; it represents a legacy of performance,
passion, and perseverance. Its evolution from a show car to a
competitive racer embodies the spirit of the era and the
enthusiasts who keep it alive. Whether competing on the track or
proudly displayed at shows, this GT350 continues to turn heads and
capture hearts.
As it races into the future, It remains a testament to the enduring
allure of the Shelby brand and the timeless excitement of American
muscle cars. It's a living piece of history, cherished not only for
its speed but for the countless stories it has coll...for more
information please contact the seller.
