1965 SHELBY GT350

This 1965 Shelby GT350 SFM5S257 is known as '#257'. It is one of 562 produced by Shelby-American in 1965. Sold new at Galpin Ford in SanFernando, California. #257 has spent its entire life in California. This Shelby has the fiberglass hood with porthole scoop and prop rod, and #257 has the extremely rare and unique factory-equipped parts such as steel wheels, no racing stripes, and trunk-mounted battery location. All Shelby-specific parts are original and or assembly line restored to this car. The High performance 289ci V8 engine is complete with factory-installed Shelby parts including Cobra aluminum intake manifold, Tri-y headers, override traction bars, Koni Shocks, and aluminum valve covers. In 2019 the Concours restoration of #257 began. Assistance was provided by John Brown and Jeff Speegle both of whom provided historical authenticity data for proper detailing methods as performed at the San Jose Ford plant and Shelby American in 1965. Other top experts from around the country were consulted to ensure that every part of this car was documented and restored to its original form and intent. The car was completely disassembled and stripped to bare metal. The body was re-worked and painted in its factory color of Wimbledon White. The drivetrain was removed, rebuilt, and any failed or worn part was replaced with factory Ford assembly line original parts. The interior, trunk, and undercarriage parts were restored to the original specifications or replaced with assembly line correct Ford/Shelby parts. The restoration of #257 was performed with the goal to build the highest quality and most accurately restored 1965 Shelby GT350 to date, regardless of the cost. No expense was spared for labor, materials, parts restoration and new assembly line/NOS parts. The highest level of restoration for Shelby is the premiere level. There have only been seven 1965 Shelby GT350's restored to that level. The quality of this Shelby restoration was recognized in 2021 when it was judged for the first time at the 46th annual Shelby American Automobile Club. It earned the premiere level award in Division 1 competition. That same year in French Lick Indiana, again received the premiere award in Division 1 competition. Meeting these very high expectations gives tribute to the restorer's mindset and the team that was assembled to make this car what it is. It is very rare for a Shelby to receive such an award, especially getting judged for the first time.

Known as '#257'; one of 562 examples built by Shelby American in 1965. Shipped to southern California, where has spent its entire life. Retains its original California Black Plate and is powered by a 289ci V8 engine and 4-speed manual gearbox.