Summary

Matching-numbers 1968 Shelby GT500KR convertible with a 428ci Cobra Jet engine, one of 57 produced with 4-speed manual transmission and air conditioning. Restored back to original condition.

Details

This beautiful, rare 1968 Shelby GT500KR convertible received a total rotisserie restoration to as-new, as-delivered specifications and finish in 2016 by award-winning Master Shelby restoration expert Tim Lea of Massachusetts. Bearing Shelby serial #02402, it is one of only 57 1968 GT500KR convertibles produced with the 4-speed manual transmission and Factory Select-Aire air-conditioning combination, and one of just four in Lime Gold with a Saddle Décor bucket-seat interior. The car wears its original, rare Shelby wheel covers, along with a new set of Goodyear Polyglas tires. According to its entry in the Shelby Registry, this car was delivered new to Sanders Motor Co. Inc. of Raleigh, NC. Ford introduced the 428 Cobra Jet engine for the Mustang at mid-year 1968, leading to the quick decision to replace the 1968 Shelby GT500’s Police Interceptor 428 with the new but conservatively rated 335hp big-block 428-4V CJ engine. Like all 1968 Shelbys, the GT500KR “King of the Road” stood apart from standard 1968 Mustangs with fiberglass body panels, including the hood with its forward-placed scoop – functional for the Cobra Jet’s Ram Air – and a rear end with ducktail spoiler, sequential taillights and tilt-away steering column from the 1965 Thunderbird. Power steering and power front disc brakes were also part of the package, along with a convertible roll bar and a uniquely padded console, with Stewart Warner gauges added to the Mustang Deluxe interior. This GT500KR convertible has a white power top with glass backlite, and is equipped with its matching-numbers 428 Cobra Jet engine and matching 4-speed manual transmission. Desirable options include AM radio and Visibility Group, factory-installed Select-Aire, tinted glass, Interior Décor Group, power steering and GT Equipment Group. A complete Marti Report and the original Build Sheet accompany this rare Shelby.