1968 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500

For 1968, Shelby Automotive's Mustang-based cars grew more road-oriented, partly in response to increased demand. The Shelby GT500 retained its 428ci 4-barrel V8 as the range's top offering. Produced at Ford's Metuchen, New Jersey assembly plant alongside standard Mustangs before receiving final Shelby modifications at the A.O. Smith facility in Ionia, Michigan, the 1968 GT500 combined big-block power with distinct styling. A redesigned fiberglass front end and rear panel with integrated sequential turn signals set it apart from both the standard Mustang and the prior year Shelby, and inside, a custom console fitted with Stewart-Warner gauges, roll bar with retractable shoulder harnesses, and full Shelby badging beckon to its racing heritage.

This GT500 Fastback was initially built in Metuchen on February 20, 1968 in Sunlit Gold over a Black Knitted Decor cabin with bucket seats, and upon completion at Shelby Automotive was delivered to Carl Beasley Co. of York, Pennsylvania. The car was well-optioned when new with Selectaire air conditioning, a tilt-away steering column, an AM radio, and power-assisted steering and front disc/rear drum brakes. It was one of just 1,020 GT-500s produced for the model year.