1969 Shelby Mustang GT500 Convertible

This Cobra Jet was originally developed by Rhode Island's Tasca Ford at the suggestion of Hot Rod and included a pair of 427 low-riser cylinder heads, a 735-cfm Holley carburetor and many subtle improvements, courtesy of the sizable Ford parts bin. The Cobra Jet-powered Mustangs were very successful in Super Stock competition at the 1968 NHRA Winternationals.

The 428 Cobra Jet would power the upscale GT 500 through 1970. The GT500 carried the unique Shelby identification. For 1969, the exterior incorporated a longer fiberglass front end, a unique grille, updated taillights and revised exhaust outlets, as well as an aggressive hood with five functional NACA-style air scoops. The front and rear air scoops ducted cool air to the brakes. On the inside of the car was a roll bar, inertia-reel racing harness, plus luxury options and special trim. Total production for 1969 amounted to 3,150 units with just 335 examples being convertibles.

This example is finished in orange with white stripes, a white convertible top and white upholstery. There is a C-6 automatic transmission mated to a Ram Air 428 Cobra Jet engine. There are power brakes, power steering and air conditioning. The odometer reads 89,500 miles.

In 2010, this Shelby GT500 Mustang was offered for sale at RM Auctions 'Automobiles of Amelia Island' sale in Amelia Island, Florida. The car was estimated to sell for $100,000-$150,000 and offered without reserve. As bidding came to a close, the car has been sold for the sum of $130,000, inclusive of buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Apr 2010