The 1968 Shelby Mustang GT500KR remains one of the most desirable high-performance Mustangs of the classic muscle-car era, combining Carroll Shelby’s performance-focused engineering with Ford’s formidable big-block V8 power. An Acapulco Blue example equipped with a four-speed manual transmission is now being offered on Bring a Trailer, presenting collectors with a rare opportunity to acquire an iconic American performance car.
A Rare King of the Road
Introduced midway through the 1968 model year, the GT500KR—short for “King of the Road”—built upon the Shelby GT500 formula with Ford’s 428-cubic-inch Cobra Jet V8. The model’s abbreviated production run makes it particularly attractive to collectors today.
This fastback is one of 1,053 GT500KR fastbacks built for 1968, with approximately 530 finished in Acapulco Blue. According to its accompanying documentation, the car was completed on July 16, 1968, and delivered new to Johnny Bolton Ford in Maitland, Florida.
The exterior features the distinctive Shelby treatment, including an SMC fiberglass hood with a functional ram-air scoop, grille-mounted Lucas driving lights, GT500KR side stripes, quarter-panel air scoops, sequential taillights, and a rear spoiler. Body-color bullet-style mirrors and 15-inch wheels complete the period-correct appearance.
428 Cobra Jet V8 and Four-Speed Manual
Power comes from a 428ci Cobra Jet V8 equipped from the factory with a four-barrel Holley carburetor. Factory-rated output was 335 horsepower and 440 lb-ft of torque, delivered to the rear wheels through a four-speed manual transmission. This combination gives the GT500KR the traditional muscle-car character enthusiasts expect, emphasizing low-speed torque and direct driver engagement.
The chassis features an upgraded suspension with heavy-duty coil springs and an anti-roll bar up front, complemented by heavy-duty rear leaf springs. Power-assisted front disc brakes and rear drum brakes provide stopping power, while power steering improves everyday drivability.
Period-Correct Interior and Documented Maintenance
Inside, black vinyl upholstery covers the front bucket seats and folding Sport Deck rear bench. Equipment includes air conditioning, an AM/FM radio, simulated woodgrain trim, front shoulder harnesses, and a tilt-away steering wheel. The instrument cluster incorporates a 140-mph speedometer and an 8,000-rpm tachometer.
The five-digit odometer displays approximately 20,000 miles, with around 500 reportedly added under current ownership. Maintenance performed in 2022 included rebuilding the carburetor and replacing the alternator, voltage regulator, ignition points, and condenser. A dual Flowmaster exhaust system with quad tips was also installed that year.
The sale includes a Deluxe Marti Report documenting the car’s production details, along with the owner’s manual, service records, delivery documents, and a clean Arizona title.
1968 Shelby Mustang GT500KR Fastback For Sale – Image Gallery
Source: Bring a Trailer
