Are you a fan of American muscle cars? Then you must have heard of the legendary 1968 Shelby Mustang GT500. This car is considered the ultimate American muscle car, with its powerful engine, distinctive design, and iconic status. In this article, we’ll dive into the history, features, and legacy of the 1968 Shelby Mustang GT500.
The 1968 Shelby Mustang GT500 was the second generation of the Shelby Mustang line, and it was produced by the partnership of Ford and Shelby American from 1967 to 1969. It was built to compete with other high-performance muscle cars of the time, such as the Chevrolet Camaro, Pontiac GTO, and Dodge Charger. The GT500 was an instant hit, thanks to its unique design and powerful performance.
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The design of the 1968 Shelby Mustang GT500 was a collaboration between Ford and Carroll Shelby, a former race car driver and designer. The GT500 was based on the Ford Mustang Fastback, but it had many unique features that set it apart. These included a fiberglass hood with air scoops, a front grille with integrated fog lights, and a rear spoiler. The GT500 also had unique racing stripes that ran along the sides of the car and over the hood.
Under the hood, the 1968 Shelby Mustang GT500 was powered by a 428-cubic inch (7.0-liter) V8 engine that produced 360 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque. This powerful engine was mated to a four-speed manual transmission or a three-speed automatic transmission. The GT500 could go from 0 to 60 mph in just 6.5 seconds and had a top speed of 130 mph.
The 1968 Shelby Mustang GT500 has become an iconic American muscle car, thanks to its unique design and powerful performance. It has been featured in many movies and TV shows, including the film “Gone in 60 Seconds” and the TV series “Knight Rider.” The GT500 has also been the subject of many car shows, auctions, and collector events, where it is still a popular and sought-after vehicle.
Many car enthusiasts have restored and modified the 1968 Shelby Mustang GT500 to enhance its performance and appearance. Some have added modern upgrades, such as fuel injection systems, disc brakes, and air conditioning, while others have kept it in its original condition. Restoring or modifying a GT500 can be a costly and time-consuming process, but for many car enthusiasts, it’s worth the effort.
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The 1968 Shelby Mustang GT500 has already established its place in automotive history, but its legacy continues to live on. As a rare and iconic vehicle, it will continue to be a popular collector car for many years to come. Ford has also revived the Shelby Mustang line in recent years, with new models like the Shelby GT350 and GT500, which pay tribute to the original GT500.
The 1968 Shelby Mustang GT500 is a true American icon, with its distinctive design and powerful performance. It has become a symbol of American muscle cars and a sought-after collector car. As the years go by, the GT500’s legacy continues to inspire new generations of car enthusiasts who appreciate its unique style and performance.
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