The 1968 Shelby GT500 KR Convertible represents the pinnacle of Shelby Mustang performance during the muscle car era. Combining the legendary 428 Cobra Jet V8 with Carroll Shelby's unmistakable styling, the "King of the Road" remains one of the most desirable and collectible Shelby models ever produced. Offered here is a genuine SAAC Registry GT500 KR Convertible accompanied by its original factory build sheet and Deluxe Marti Report, making it an exceptionally well-documented example.
According to the Deluxe Marti Report, this Shelby was ordered through Joe Myers Ford in Houston, Texas, on May 5, 1968, and was built on July 18, 1968. It was originally finished in Wimbledon White with a Black Décor Bucket Seat interior and a white power convertible top with glass backlite. Factory equipment included the 428 Cobra Jet V8, C6 automatic transmission, factory air conditioning, power steering, power front disc brakes, Tilt-Away steering column, GT Equipment Group, Visibility Group, tinted glass, tachometer, trip odometer, and a 3.00 Traction-Lok rear axle.
Marti Report statistics confirm this Shelby is one of only 518 GT500 KR models produced for 1968. It is also one of 182 finished in Wimbledon White, one of 158 with its original paint and trim combination, one of 251 equipped with the 428 Cobra Jet and C6 automatic transmission, and one of 893 ordered with a white convertible top.
Several years ago, the car was tastefully personalized with a professional color change to Candyapple Red basecoat/clearcoat, completed within the past two years. At the same time, the original black interior was replaced with the attractive saddle/tan interior it wears today. While no longer retaining its original color combination, the current presentation is striking, with excellent depth, gloss, and curb appeal that captures the classic Shelby look many enthusiasts envision.
Power comes from a freshly rebuilt correct 428 Cobra Jet engine. Although the engine is a correct Cobra Jet assembly, it utilizes a 1970 casting-date block and is not the car's original matching-numbers engine. The original C6 heavy-duty automatic transmission remains with the car and has been professionally rebuilt.
Mechanically, the Shelby is well sorted and ready to enjoy. It retains its correct N-case 3.00 Traction-Lok rear axle, correct 1968 automatic-transmission carburetor, correct air cleaner assembly, and correct transverse dual exhaust system. The suspension has been replaced within the last 10,000 miles, the factory air conditioning is in proper working order, the sequential taillights function correctly, and the Tilt-Away steering column operates as intended. It starts easily, idles smoothly, and drives exceptionally well whether cruising locally or attending regional shows and tours.
Several original components accompany the sale, including the original factory AM radio, original Stewart-Warner console gauge package, and original radiator. The car currently utilizes a replacement radio, a mechanical Stewart-Warner oil pressure gauge, and a four-row replacement radiator for improved cooling. The factory emissions equipment is no longer present.
With documented provenance, desirable factory options, and strong mechanical condition, this GT500 KR presents an outstanding opportunity to own one of Carroll Shelby's most iconic creations. Because it has already absorbed the value adjustments associated with its non-original engine block and cosmetic color changes, it offers an excellent value compared to concours-level examples while remaining an authentic, documented Shelby that can be driven and enjoyed.
Highlights include a genuine SAAC Registry GT500 KR Convertible, original factory build sheet, Deluxe Marti Report, factory air conditioning, freshly rebuilt correct 428 Cobra Jet engine, original rebuilt C6 automatic transmission, correct N-case Traction-Lok rear axle, Candyapple Red basecoat/clearcoat finish, white power convertible top with glass rear window, correct transverse exhaust, replacement suspension within the last 10,000 miles, 93,272 original miles, Tennessee title, and private collection ownership.
