Since the new-for-1967 Mustang body shell had been designed from the outset to accept Ford’s larger FE-Series 390-cu. in. big-block engine, Shelby was able to drop Ford’s higher-displacement Interceptor 428 into the pony car’s engine bay, creating the nearly 400-hp GT500. For 1968, the GT500 was comprehensively updated with an aggressive new front-end treatment, including a lengthened hood line, air scoops, and louvered cooling vents, while a neatly integrated rear spoiler was added, as well as revised head and tail lamps.

This GT500 is documented by its accompanying Marti Report as having been built on 18 January 1968. It was finished in Sunlit Gold with black knit vinyl luxury bucket seats, four-speed manual transmission, 3.50 conventional rear axle, shoulder harness, extra cooling package, visibility group, wheel lip moldings, sport deck rear seat, power disc brakes and steering, tilt-away steering wheel, AM radio, interior decor group, and a heavy-duty battery.

The car was sold new by Brondes Motor Sales, Inc. in Toledo, Ohio on 20 May 1968 to Bonnie M. Smith of Perry, Michigan. On 11 December 1968 the engine block, valves, pan, oil pump, and push rods were all replaced, with 8,282 miles. While the subsequent history on the car is not known, the SAAC Shelby Registry lists Dale Watson, Pete DeLuca and James Claude Laws as prior owners. Proudly offered from The Duane Sell Collection, this GT500 presents nicely today, and is accompanied by an owner’s manual and Marti Report.