Shelby had been associated with Mustangs since 1965, but the Shelby GT500 was introduced in 1967 as a counterpart to the Shelby GT350. True to its name, the Shelby GT500 took over overall superiority in performance offering the best buyers could get their hands on in the Mustang range at the time. Like the GT350, Shelby didn't stop with the engine; the extra power necessitated extensive upgrades. The only downside of the GT500 was that it was never offered as a convertible in 1967 due to production and financial problems. These same issues forced Mustang to take over Mustang Shelby production after 1968, making the 1967 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 one of the last first-gen Mustangs independently built by Shelby American. But let's not get lost in the history. Let's pop the hood on the '67 Shelby GT500.
There's an interesting backstory to the 428 cubic-inch (7.0-liter) engine used in the 1967 Ford Mustang. Originally used in high-performance Ford Police Interceptors, Shelby enhanced it by adding an aluminum intake manifold and Holley carburetors, among other upgrades. This resulted in an output of 355 horsepower and 420 lb.ft. That should be good for a 0-60 mph time of approximately 6.0 seconds and a top speed of 140 mph, all while weighing around 3,700 pounds. To enhance the 1967 GT500's performance even further, Shelby added upgraded Gabriel shock absorbers, stiffer front springs to counter the engine's weight and front disc brakes, replacing the standard drums in lower-spec Mustangs.
The 1967 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 received the same interior treatment as the Shelby GT350, combining a performance-oriented appeal with what was defined as luxury in 1967. However, instead of wood, as found in most GT350s, the GT500 cabin mainly incorporates brushed aluminum finishes for a more premium and race car feel. The dashboard is one of the places where aluminum is used heavily, and another difference it has compared to other Mustangs, except the Shelby GT350, is the extra gauges for oil pressure, water level, and an analog clock. These gauges are mounted in a separate pod under the dash or on the center console, in a few examples. A wood-rim steering wheel with a Shelby badge adds a touch of sportiness, and for when buyers took their cars to the track, Shelby added a roll cage. The rear seats remain foldable, though they are not as comfortable as the fronts.
One of the most recognizable visual cues of a Shelby Mustang is the pair of racing stripes that run along the body from front to rear. All 1967 Shelby GT500 Mustangs should have these stripes unless the original owners opted for a different look and had them removed from factory, or the car could have been repainted without the stripes being reapplied. Another instantly recognizable Shelby design cue is the wider front grille designed to improve airflow to the radiator, even with the dual auxiliary headlights mounted at the center. You won't find these on every Shelby GT500 though. Atop the hood, two nostril-like vents enhance airflow to the engine for cooling and intake, especially at high speeds.
The "technology" incorporated into the 1967 Shelby GT500 wasn't about creature comforts or luxury features. It was a stripped-down, performance-focused approach, with every upgrade chosen to extract the most power and handling from the car. Stock Mustang suspension components wouldn't hold up to the 1967 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500's power and weight. Shelby addressed this with thicker sway bars in addition to the beforementioned stiffer springs and upgraded shocks, all aimed at keeping the car planted, especially during intense driving situations. The four-speed manual transmission was the most preferred option to get the most out of the engine. Some buyers went for the 3-speed automatic for a more relaxed driving experience.
Rarity does not always equate to high value, but it does in the case of the 1967 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500. An estimated 2,050 examples were built, which, in addition to being the first model-year GT500s, makes them highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike. According to Classic.com, the average market price is about $213,000, with projections for an increase. Yet, there have been sales for less than half that. Interested in getting a good deal on a 1967 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500? Explore our Ford Mustang listings, which include some of the best-priced options from verified private sellers.
As one of the last first-gen Mustangs independently built by Shelby, the 1967 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 is highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike. If you're thinking about killing your dream of owning one, the hunt is just half the fun of owning one. Exotic Car Trader creates an exclusive and safe way of buying and selling cars, eliminating the daunting experiences of private selling for buyers and sellers. Every vehicle listed on Exotic Car Trader goes through a private seller verification process, ensuring legitimacy for our buyers. Also, Exotic Car Trader's car buying process is well outlined, with all fees and packages providing our buyers with a seamless and inclusive experience. We can handle the escrow of funds at no additional cost to the buyer and seller, and we also provide trade-in and financing options for buyers. For transaction safety, our Transactions Team is world-class and equipped with industry fraud detection tools to ensure a safe and secure transaction. These are just some of the benefits you enjoy when buying or selling on Exotic Car Trader. Contact us for listing services or to buy a car on Exotic Car Trader today! Sure, there are faster cars today, Shelby Mustangs included, but none like the very first Shelby GT500.
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