1968 Ford Mustang Shelby GT-500

The 1968 Shelby GT500 is an iconic American muscle car era symbol. This high-performance pony car was a collaboration between Ford and the legendary Carroll Shelby, resulting in a powerful machine. Under the hood resides a monstrous 428 cubic-inch Cobra Jet V8 engine, delivering about 335 horsepower and 440 lb-ft of torque. With its aggressive styling, potent performance, and limited production numbers, the 1968 GT500 has become one of the most sought-after collector cars today. Prices for these legendary muscle cars have skyrocketed in recent years, and we'll talk about that in more detail in this review.

A Pivotal Point In History

The 1968 Shelby GT500 marked a pivotal point in the model's history. While the earlier years saw a closer partnership between Carroll Shelby and Ford, by 1968, Ford had taken a more significant role in the production process. The iconic Cobra name was now applied to the GT350 and GT500 models, signaling a brand identity shift, and the 1968 model year also witnessed the discontinuation of the solid lifter K-code engine and the addition of the legendary GT500KR (King of the Road) engine. This version boasted the potent 428 Cobra Jet V8, delivering immense torque and earning its "King of the Road" moniker. The GT500KR represented the pinnacle of performance for the first-generation Shelby Mustangs. Despite the increasing involvement of Ford, the 1968 Shelby GT500 remained a highly desirable and sought-after muscle car, and about 1500 units were made for the 1968 model year. Its aggressive styling and the Cobra Jet engine's power solidified its status as a legend.

The Drag Strip Dominator

The 1968 Shelby GT500 was initially equipped with a 428 cubic-inch Police Interceptor V8, and it produced a claimed 335 horsepower and 440 lb-ft of torque, though these figures were widely considered conservative underestimations. This engine provided a relentless surge of power, propelling the GT500 from 0 to 60 mph in the mid-five-second range and delivering quarter-mile times in the low-thirteen-second bracket. The introduction of the GT500KR engine variant, which boasted the potent 428 Cobra Jet V8, brought more power and refinement. This engine also cemented the GT500's reputation as a dragstrip dominator. Compared to contemporaries, the 1968 Shelby GT500 stood in a league of its own. Rivals like the Chevrolet Camaro SS and Pontiac GTO were formidable but couldn't match the GT500's muscle: the Shelby's larger displacement and higher compression ratio gave it a significant power advantage.

An Era Of Sparse Interiors

Inside the 1968 Shelby GT500, you'll find a design reminiscent of an era of muscular American automotive design. While undeniably built for performance, the interior boasts a surprising level of refinement. The seats, high-backed buckets wrapped in vinyl or cloth, offer surprisingly good support. They cradle you firmly yet comfortably as you drive. The dashboard is home to large and small gauges that come alive with each rev. The woodgrain accents, a hallmark of the 1968 model GT500, add a touch of luxury to the otherwise spartan cabin. The steering wheel, thick-rimmed and wrapped in leather, feels substantial in your hands, providing excellent feedback as you carve through corners. However, the interior is not without its quirks. Legroom, particularly for taller drivers, can be tight, and the durable materials lack the plushness in newer luxury SUVs. Yet, these minor shortcomings are easily forgiven when considering the GT500's primary purpose: top-shelf performance.

Draws Attention With Its Muscles

The 1968 Shelby GT500 is a muscular, aggressive car that draws attention like a Mustang. Its exterior is a bold statement of power and performance. Up front, a massive, chrome-trimmed grille dominates, housing twin rectangular headlights that glare almost predatory. The bulging hood with two prominent scoops does an excellent job hiding the ferocious engine beneath. The car's profile is low and sleek, punctuated by side scoops that feed air to the hungry powerplant. The fastback roofline flows seamlessly into a muscular rear end, where a prominent spoiler and quad taillights complete the overall muscular look of the car. Some models are clad in the iconic Wimbledon White with racing stripes - a color combination synonymous with American muscle cars of that era. But there are also a plethora of color options available. Every curve, every line, and every chrome accent is designed to project speed and dominance, making the 1968 Shelby GT500 draw attention with its design.

Zero To None Tech Features

Technology in the 1968 Shelby GT-500 is relatively sparse by today's standards. The interior leaned towards performance, and creature comforts were secondary. However, the car featured power steering and brakes, which were considered advanced amenities at the time. The absence of modern electronic aids allows for a more direct driving experience, putting the driver in complete control.

A Substantial Investment

Pricing a used 1968 Shelby GT500 depends heavily on its condition, originality, and available documentation. Pristine, fully documented examples command exceptionally high prices between $100,000 and $500,000. The investment required to own a GT-500 is substantial, but for those passionate about classic muscle cars, it's a price many are willing to pay.

This Masterpiece Belongs In Your Garage

The 1968 Ford Mustang Shelby GT-500 is an icon known for its power, distinctive styling, and historical significance, making it a highly coveted collectible. While ownership may be out of reach for many, owning and driving this automotive masterpiece firsthand is an unforgettable experience. If you're seeking to buy or sell exotic cars, Exotic Car Trader offers you an opportunity to do that with its premier online platform. With a vast selection of high-performance vehicles, including classic muscle cars, Exotic Car Trader is the ideal destination for automotive enthusiasts who want to buy or sell their vehicles.