1968 Shelby Mustang GT350 Convertible (LHD)

Description

An iconic muscle car with a legendary name, the Shelby Mustang appeared in 1965 in both street and race versions with the twin aims of winning races and enhancing the reputation of the ordinary Mustang it was based on. Shelby American's modifications may have been relatively simple but they worked wonders and succeeded admirably on both counts. The GT350R was SCCA B-Production National Champion for three years running, from 1965-1967 and publicity derived from models like the '66 ?Rent-A-Racer? Hertz cars certainly helped the image of the more pedestrian Mustangs. For 1968, Shelby production shifted to Metuchen, New Jersey for initial assembly then cars were transported to Ionia, Michigan where Shelby components were added at the AO Smith Company facility. The Shelby range for 1968 - using Cobra name for the first time - once again comprised the small-block GT350 and big-block GT500, with the addition of convertible versions of either model. Unique styling using fibreglass additions helped distinguish the model from lesser Mustangs, with '65 Thunderbird rectangular taillights and longer grille with inset driving lights adding a purposeful appearance. Functional side scoops on the side panels and quarter panels plus unique steel wheels and stripes further enhanced the aggressive look of the new model. Inside the Deluxe Mustang interior was augmented by a centre console complete with Stewart-Warner oil pressure and alternator gauges along with a standard roll bar with inertia-reel seatbelts. Powering the GT350 was a 302-cid V8 with an aluminium intake manifold and Holley carburettor giving 250bhp - if that wasn't enough, a Paxton supercharger could be ordered although few were so equipped from the factory. Power brakes and steering were mandatory options and heavy-duty suspension ensured the GT350 handled superbly. A choice of transmission options was available - either the four-speed close-ratio top loader manual box or C-4 automatic. This is an impressively rare car - Shelby American built just 404 GT350 convertibles in 1968 and each of the estimated 190 survivors is now regarded as a blue-chip muscle car.