Chassis no. 6S1720

289-cid, 425-hp OHV V-8 engine, original four-speed manual transmission, independent front suspension, lower single arms, coil springs, tube shock absorbers, front disc and rear drum brakes. Wheelbase: 108-inches

The street model 1965 Shelby GT 350s sold briskly, but since they were essentially thinly disguised race cars and early buyers complained about the harshness of the ride, noise, and rattles. As a result, the 1966 GT 350 models were made more user-friendly with the introduction of numerous mechanical revisions that softened the edges and made the cars more tractable. Exterior changes included Plexiglas quarter-windows and the scoops and ducting necessary to help cool the rear brakes. Mechanically, the engine remained the same, a Shelby-prepared 306-hp solid lifter 289 cubic inch Ford V-8 with a Holley four-barrel carburetor and a considerably quieter exhaust system. The Borg-Warner T-10 four-speed manual transmission remained standard, but an automatic was optional. The suspension was much closer to stock, greatly improving the ride and comfort. All told, 1,365 cars were built in addition to 999 GT 350H Hertz “Rent-A-Racers” and 13 specials and prototypes.

According to the Shelby American Automobile Club registry, the 1966 Shelby GT 350 Fastback offered here was ordered on June 13th 1966 and shipped three days later to Eger Motors, Inc., of Pennsylvania. It was originally finished in Ivy Green and was optioned with rear seats at an additional cost of $40. A short while later it was purchased by Bill Collins of Harrisburg, PA, still in an unrestored condition. The next owner was John Alan Cornely of Millersville, MD who restored and painted the car red with white stripes. After passing through several more owners it was acquired by Thomas Fuith of Naples, FL who repainted it once again in Candy Apple Red with LeMans stripes. During this process Mr. Fuith also decided to increase the horsepower by installing an original period Paxton supercharger on the car as well. This car was later sold to Mitchell Newman in 2006 and auctioned at RM Auctions’ Fort Lauderdale event in early 2007. Since then, the car passed through one other owner before being purchased by the current vendor, who has owned it since late 2007.

The level of fit and finish of this Shelby is outstanding, and the sound and throttle response indicate the level of attention paid to its restoration. The Shelby is still currently finished in Candy Apple Red with white LeMans stripes and retains the original black interior, Paxton supercharger and is documented to have traveled less than 47,000 miles since new. A stunning wood-rimmed steering wheel, ten-spoke wheels, Koni shocks and the original AM radio also come fitted. Most importantly, this GT 350 comes with the ultra-desirable four-speed transmission it was equipped with from new. This is an example of a very correct matching numbers Shelby Mustang GT 350 in superb condition throughout. A nearly unique opportunity, this GT 350 will satisfy the boy racer in all of us – while its provenance and documentation as one of the original GT 350s leaves the option to return to stock at any time. The original caburetors are included should the new owner wish to return the car to its original configuration.