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1968 Ford Shelby GT500 King of the Road Is a True 428 Cobra Jet V8 AACA Senior

1968 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500KR in original condition for sale by Mecum Auctions 22 photos
Photo: Mecum Auctions
1968 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500KR in original condition for sale by Mecum Auctions1968 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500KR in original condition for sale by Mecum Auctions1968 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500KR in original condition for sale by Mecum Auctions1968 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500KR in original condition for sale by Mecum Auctions1968 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500KR in original condition for sale by Mecum Auctions1968 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500KR in original condition for sale by Mecum Auctions1968 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500KR in original condition for sale by Mecum Auctions1968 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500KR in original condition for sale by Mecum Auctions1968 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500KR in original condition for sale by Mecum Auctions1968 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500KR in original condition for sale by Mecum Auctions1968 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500KR in original condition for sale by Mecum Auctions1968 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500KR in original condition for sale by Mecum Auctions1968 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500KR in original condition for sale by Mecum Auctions1968 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500KR in original condition for sale by Mecum Auctions1968 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500KR in original condition for sale by Mecum Auctions1968 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500KR in original condition for sale by Mecum Auctions1968 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500KR in original condition for sale by Mecum Auctions1968 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500KR in original condition for sale by Mecum Auctions1968 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500KR in original condition for sale by Mecum Auctions1968 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500KR in original condition for sale by Mecum Auctions1968 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500KR in original condition for sale by Mecum Auctions
Currently, the 2021 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 thunders its “Predator” domination atop Ford Performance’s lineup with its 760-hp aluminum V8 and imposing supercharger. But let’s face it, if you want the classic pinnacle of Shelby(ness), one needs to have a GT500KR (King of the Road) version in the garage.
If there’s ever the need for additional confirmation that Ford’s GT500 King of the Road Shelby series is one of the most coveted versions of the Mustang ever, just take a look at the grille of this 1968 example. There, a “Senior National First Prize, 2009 Winner” badge from the Antique Automobile Club of America (AACA) has taken its rightful place of honor for some time already.

Better yet, the fiery red ‘68 (that once lived a Lime Green life) will soon become up for grabs during Dana Mecum's 34th Original Spring Classic Indy auction (Indiana State Fairgrounds, Indianapolis, Indiana – May 14th through 22nd).

It’s always a celebration when one of these comes out to play, considering that back in 1968 Ford was just taking over the Shelby automobile production and they celebrated the feat with a 428ci Cobra Jet party under the hood of the GT500KR.

Back then, the styling was becoming a bit more aggressive, while the company also started to offer Convertible options for those looking to enjoy the GT350 and GT500 experience with the wind in their hair. As summer is fast approaching, it’s no wonder the red GT500KR we see here has been photographed from all angles with the top down.

According to the description provided by the consigner, we’re dealing with the Shelby with the VIN 04047, and it’s currently looking pristine thanks to a comprehensive restoration performed by specialist shop Kar Kraft. Coincidence or not, this example also belonged for a while to Susan Minch, wife of Scott Minch, the president of the aftermarket specialist.

Among the many highlights worth mentioning, aside from the 428ci Cobra Jet V8 engine that was reportedly massively underrated at 335 hp (but produced more like 400 ponies) are the four-speed manual transmission, powered steering along with front disc and rear drum brakes, Lucas fog lamps, or the white-letter tires wrapped around Shelby 10-spoke alloy wheels.

It naturally doesn’t come cheap with its great looks and mechanical wonders, as well as the AACA award under its belt, so it’s no wonder the listing has an estimate price of at least $140k.
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About the author: Aurel Niculescu
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Aurel has aimed high all his life (literally, at 16 he was flying gliders all by himself) so in 2006 he switched careers and got hired as a writer at his favorite magazine. Since then, his work has been published both by print and online outlets, most recently right here, on autoevolution.
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