1968 Shelby Mustang GT350 Fastback (RHD)

Description

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 A.O. Smith Company facility. The Shelby range for 1968 - now using the Cobra name - consisted of the small-block GT350 and big-block GT500, with the addition of convertible versions of both. 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 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 302ci V8 with an aluminium intake manifold and Holley carburettor giving 250bhp - if that wasn't enough, a Paxton supercharger could be ordered although very few were so equipped. 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. Shelby built 1027 GT350 fastbacks in 1968, all of them blue-chip muscle cars.