The Ford Shelby GT500 was unveiled in 1967, representing the high-performance variant of the Mustang. This model was a collaboration between Ford and the renowned racing figure Carroll Shelby. It was propelled by a robust 428 cubic-inch Ford Police Interceptor V8, capable of producing 355 horsepower. The engine featured an aluminum mid-rise intake manifold and was equipped with dual 4-barrel Holley carburetors. A 4-speed manual top loader transmission was utilized, accompanied by front disc brakes, reinforced front springs, an upgraded anti-roll bar, and Gabriel shock absorbers.
Car and Driver magazine praised the GT500 for its ability to accomplish tasks with ease that had previously required brute force, adding a distinctive grand-touring personality to Shelby’s already powerful Mustang-based lineup. The 1967 models marked the conclusion of an era, as they were the last ones produced by Shelby American before production shifted under direct control of Ford Motor Company in Ionia, Michigan, for the 1968 and 1969 models. Only 2,048 of these exceptionally capable and sophisticated vehicles were manufactured in 1967.
This specific 1967 Shelby GT500, identified by the Shelby No. 01867, was originally shipped to Victor Ford in Wauconda, Illinois. Under the hood, a rebuilt 428 Police Interceptor V-8 engine with upgrades such as a roller cam, aluminum intake, and dual 4-barrel carburetors delivers the power. The engine is tastefully adorned with hollow-letter, Cobra-scripted rocker covers and an oval open-element air cleaner. Although it was originally a factory C6 automatic car, it has been converted to a 4-speed manual transmission, preferred by driving enthusiasts.
The car features a Wimbledon White exterior with distinctive blue Le Mans stripes, complemented by a black Décor bucket-seat interior. Power front disc/rear drum brakes, power steering with a wood-rimmed steering wheel, and a pushbutton radio enhance the driving experience. The exterior boasts inboard-mounted driving lights, a scooped fiberglass hood with retaining pins, dual exhaust, and Kelsey-Hayes Mag Star wheels fitted with BF Goodrich tires.
This special car will go up for auction this weekend and is listed by Mecum Auctions as part of their Monterey event. The 1967 Shelby GT500 often finds a spot in lists of the best-ever Mustangs, and this particular example boasts a history that is been well documented in the SAAC Shelby Registry, and a Marti Report provides further details about the original features, options, and production data of this remarkable vehicle.
Source: Mecum Auctions
