1966 Shelby GT-350R Racing Version

The Shelby Mustang was a tuner sports car from the 1960s. It was a series of Ford Mustangs which were specially modified by Carroll Shelby's company and sold as a series. The program was factory-sponsored and production was eventually moved in-house. The spirit of the series continues today in the special Mustang Cobra models.

1965

The first Shelby version of the Mustang appeared in 1965. All '65 Shelbys were painted white with parallel blue stripes from nose to tail. They also featured rocker panel stripes with the GT350 name. The engine was a modified K-code 289 hp (216 kW) Windsor V8 with special "Cobra" valve covers, tri-Y headers, a special intake manifold and Holley carburetor increased power from 217 to 306 hp (162 to 228 kW).

1966

The 1966 was differentiated in body color (non-white versions were introduced) and trim. It featured special quarter-panel windows and rear air scoops on each side. A fold-down rear seat was now standard as well. Dual AFB Carter carburetors were available as an option, and the 289 engine was painted blue.

Shelby struck a deal with the Hertz car rental company to produce a special line of GT350s for rent. These GT350H cars are quite rare and sought-after today. Shelby would repeat this trick in 1987 with the Shelby CSX-T.

1967

The new 1967 Mustang was followed with a new Shelby. It featured Mercury Cougar tail light panel, a flip-up spoiler, and two sets of air scoops on each side. This was also the first American car to feature a factory roll bar.

This year also saw the introduction of the GT500 alongside the continued GT350. The new GT500 featured a 428 in³ (7 L) FE Police Interceptor big-block V8.

1968

Shelby lost the lease for their factory at Los Angeles International Airport in late 1967 so production of the Shelby cars was moved to Ionia, Michigan under Ford Motor Company control.

See also

• Ford Mustang
• Shelby Cobra