The Shelby GT350 debuted in 1965 with a modified version of Ford’s 289-cubic-inch small-block V-8 engine. To ensure that Shelby American would not run out of Mustang fastbacks to convert, Ford’s San Jose plant delivered 252 1965 “K-code” Mustangs to Shelby before shutting down to retool for the 1966 model year. Known as a “carryover” GT350, this small run of chassis is highly sought-after for its blend of features from the 1965 and 1966 model years.

This 1966 Shelby GT350 is number 176 of 252 such “carryover” models produced. It came equipped from the factory with optional Cragar alloy wheels and racing stripes. The car was shipped new to Eger Motors, Inc. of McKeesport, Pennsylvania, according to a copy of its original Shelby American invoice dated 19 October 1965. Other invoices show that it was delivered without its chrome air cleaner and oil filler cap, which Shelby American remedied under warranty. Eger Motors sold the GT350 to its first owner, Don Engleka, proprietor of Don’s Service Station in Berlin, Pennsylvania, on 18 February 1966. A Shelby American service invoice dated 1 April 1966 indicates the car was brought in for a cracked transmission bellhousing with mileage logged at 723 miles, at which time the transmission was overhauled and the pilot bearing replaced. In June of ’66, with 1,365 miles logged, a broken clutch equalizer bar was replaced.

In 1977, the original owner transferred the title for the GT350 to his son, Ray Engleka. He would retain the car for nearly 40 years before selling it to Shelby expert, restorer, and racer Curt Vogt of Cobra Automotive in July 2015, according to history compiled by the Shelby American Automobile Club’s 1966 registry. Shortly thereafter, Curt Vogt then sold the car to Mark Allin who was specifically searching for an original, unrestored example, with this car meeting those expectations. Allin then had mechanical work done on the car, while retaining its unique, original “carryover” features, such as the vertically ribbed door upholstery, instrument bezel with black camera-case finish, and chromed lower joint cover for the front grille, among others. Importantly, the car retains its numbers-matching 289-cu.-in. Ford V-8 engine, as confirmed by marque experts. The consignor then acquired the car in 2016 and has maintained it as part of a collection, driving it sparingly ever since.

Now offered with manuals, a letter from the SAAC verifying the car’s serial number, and copies of the original order and service invoices, this “carryover” Shelby GT350 is highly compelling thanks to its wonderful original condition, well-documented history, and relative rarity.