Summary

Powered by a matching-number engine and manual transmission. Special-ordered for in-house use by Ford.

Details

This 1969 Shelby GT500 convertible was the recipient of a professional frame-off restoration. It features its original drivetrain, with a matching-numbers 428ci Cobra Jet engine, close-ratio 4-speed manual transmission and a 3.50 Traction-Lok differential. It is finished in its original color combination of Acapulco Blue with stripes over a white interior. Of all the first-generation Shelby Mustangs, the 1969 model featured the most dramatic departure from the standard Mustang. Notably, contractor A.O. Smith replaced the entire 1969 Mustang front end with fiberglass fenders, hood and front valance to create a full-width grille, opening with a special bumper and chrome trim. The five NACA ducts in the hood were fully functional—four for under-hood cooling with the center duct serving as functional Ram Air that fed air into the engine's sealed air cleaner. The fiberglass rear end incorporated a trunk lid with ducktail spoiler and wide sequential taillights, while side scoops were added to the quarter-panels. With Shelby's "Road Car" combination, the convertible features power steering, power brakes with front discs, a power white convertible top with glass rear window, tinted glass, the Visibility Group and the Shelby Mustang's standard Interior Decor Group, with gauge-pod console and convertible roll bar. According to the included Deluxe Marti Report, this 1969 Shelby GT500 convertible was special-ordered under DSO 842517, with the first two digits indicating Home Office Reserve that typically indicates some type of in-house use by Ford.