In 1968, as Shelby’s production moved under Ford’s control in Michigan, the GT500 received a major overhaul with bold new styling. This year marked the introduction of convertible versions for both the GT350 and GT500.
While the 428 CI GT500 was impressive, the GT500KR “King of the Road” took performance to the next level with the potent Cobra Jet 428 engine, which was officially rated at 335 horsepower but actually delivered significantly more. The GT500KR also featured larger brakes, additional underhood bracing, and staggered rear shocks.
The name “King of the Road” was a deliberate challenge to Chevrolet, which was preparing to release a Corvette with the same title. Among the rarest muscle cars of the 1960s, only 518 GT500KR convertibles were produced in 1968 and one of them is now available on Bring A Trailer.
Assembled on June 24, 1968, this car was initially delivered to a Ford dealer in Jenkintown, Pennsylvania. It was moved to Norway in 1984, where it was stored and driven infrequently before undergoing a six-year mechanical and cosmetic restoration, completed in 2004.
This particular 1968 Shelby GT500KR Convertible is finished in Candyapple Red with white stripes and has a black vinyl interior with a reupholstered black Decor interior and a power-operated black convertible top.
It’s equipped with a 428ci Cobra Jet V8 engine producing 335 horsepower and 440 lb-ft of torque, paired with a four-speed Toploader manual transmission. Additional features include 15″ aluminum wheels, an AM radio, power steering, and power-assisted front disc brakes.
Source: Bring A Trailer
