Offered from the Golden State Muscle Car Collection
1968 Shelby GT500 KR Convertible

The Quail Auction|16 August 2024, 11:00 PDT|Carmel, Quail Lodge & Golf Club

1968 Shelby GT500 KR Convertible
Chassis no. 8T03R203163-02426

428ci 'Cobra Jet' OHV V8 Engine
Single Holley 4-Barrel Carburetor
335bhp at 5,600rpm
4-Speed Manual Transmission
Front Independent Suspension, Rear Live Axle
Front Disc, Rear Drum Power Brakes

*Documented in the Shelby American World Registry
*R-Code, 428 Cobra Jet V8 engine
*4-Speed Wide-Ratio transmission (Code 5)
*Finished in Raven Black as per the trim tag
*Reportedly restored in 1997 by Gil's Classic Ford Center, Fairfield, CA
*Delivered new to California, per the Shelby Registry
*A highly desirable open-air, big-block Shelby
*Fast, luxurious, and brashly stylish

THE CAR OFFERED

In the late 1960s, Ford was feeling a bit left-behind in the frenzy of the muscle car wars. GM and Chrysler each had a whole array of big displacement engines at their disposal across the range, while Ford's best-selling Mustang was somewhat limited by its compact dimensions to what could be wedged under the hood. The 1967 Mustang GTA 390 was a welcome boost, but it was hardly a match for Chevy's mighty SS 396.

Some tinkering by renowned Ford dealer Tasca Ford of Rhode Island birthed a blisteringly quick 428-powered Mustang, which was proposed to Ford for production. Execs eventually relented to pressure and greenlit the project. Shelby was called in to develop the car, which became the new GT500 KR (King of the Road), one of the most formidable pony cars of the period, reestablishing Ford 'Total Performance' as a worthy contender.

This highly desirable GT500 KR Convertible offered from the Golden State Muscle Car Collection is one of just 318 KR convertibles built, ensuring its status in the hierarchy of collectible Mustangs. Per the Shelby American World Registry, this car was delivered new in California, and spent much of its life in the Golden State.

Reportedly restored by Gil's Classic Ford Center in Fairfield, California, it remains in excellent condition with authentic detailing throughout. The trim tag denotes it was delivered in Raven Black with a black interior, as it is presented today. Additionally, the potent 428 Cobra Jet is paired with a 4-speed wide ratio gearbox, ensuring effortless high-speed touring. Shelby 10-spoke wheels, white deco stripes, and other period-cool Shelby bits like a fresh-air hood, quarter panel scoops, rear deck spoiler, and Lucas fog lamps complete tough-guy-in-a-suit aesthetic. In contrast to the hardcore GT350 of 1965-66, the GT500 KR was more refined and luxurious, elevating Shelby into a new territory. Particularly in open air spec as offered here, the GT500 KR is an eminently collectible, sought-after Shelby Mustang, and must have for any Pony Car enthusiast.

Additional information

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UNCOLLECTED LOTS:
Uncollected Motorcar lots will be uplifted and stored by Passport Auto Transport. Uplift and storage shall be at the buyer's sole risk and expense. Motor vehicle removal and storage charges will be charged by Passport Auto Transport according to its standard rates and ultimate destination of the vehicle(s). For applicable charges, please consult with Passport in advance of purchase. Uncollected Automobilia lots will be uplifted and stored by World Air & Ocean Services, Inc. removal and storage shall be at the buyer's sole risk and expense.
Automobilia removal, storage and shipping charges will be charged by World Air & Ocean Services, Inc according to its standard rates and ultimate destination of the lot(s). For applicable charges, please consult with World Air & Ocean Services, Inc in advance of purchase. Purchased lots become the buyer's risk once the hammer falls. Storage, collection, and uplift for paid and unpaid lot removal is at the buyer's sole risk and expense. Overseas buyers are strongly advised to make collection arrangements with Bonhams in advance of the auction. Buyers may have an authorised agent collect their purchases according to the collection deadline. It is the buyer's responsibility to ensure that their designated agent has the auction venue details, bill of lading showing where the lot will be transported and proof of the buyer authorization for collection of the lot(s). Bonhams will release the lot only once all payment requirements have been met including payment of taxes and any applicable fees. Buyers and/or their agent are responsible for collecting all available parts, logbooks, title, keys and any other accompanying documents.
TRANSPORT ARRANGEMENTS:
Representatives of Bonhams|Cars preferred carriers are available to provide shipping quotes and transport information.
Domestic Motorcar Transport:
Passport Auto Transport
Contact: Ed Watts, +1 (417) 588 4921 or
mobile +1 (314) 496 6228
[email protected]
International Motorcar and Motorcycle Transporters:
Schumacher Cargo Logistics
Schumacher Secure
Contact: Warren Barnes, +1 (310) 626 7117
[email protected]
CARS (Classic Automotive Relocation Services)
Contact: Denise Rodriguez, +1 (305) 849 9326
[email protected]
Automobilia:
World Air & Ocean Services, Inc
Contact: Richard Ming
+1 (415) 860 3163
[email protected]
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