Discover the Hidden Gem: The Unrestored 1968 Shelby Mustang GT500 - A Rarity Amongst Muscle Cars

When the curtain rose on the muscular era of the American pony car, few could have envisaged the iconic stature the Shelby Mustang would come to enjoy. Within this revered lineage, the 1968 Shelby Mustang GT500 stands as a monumental testament to muscle car excellence, a rare gem that embodies the spirit of its era with unmatched poise and power. Let's delve into the story of one such GT500 that not only survives but thrives in its original, unrestored glory.

It all began in 1964 with the launch of the Ford Mustang, a car that quickly caught the public's imagination. However, it was the collaboration between Ford and racing legend Carroll Shelby in 1965 that marked the birth of the GT350, a modification that transformed the Mustang from a pleasant pony car into a formidable muscle car.

By 1967, the stage was set for the introduction of the GT500, a beast with a heart of a 428-cubic-inch (7.0-liter) FE-series V8 engine. The evolution continued, and by 1968, the GT500 was equipped with a more potent 335-horsepower 428 Cobra Jet engine, ensuring its place at the pinnacle of Shelby's modifications of Ford vehicles.

In the spotlight today is a 1968 Shelby Mustang GT500, a model that captures the essence of why these cars are so beloved. Not because it's flawlessly restored, but for the opposite reason - it isn't. This GT500, with a history rooted in Cincinnati, Ohio, and a life spent under the care of a single owner until its recent relocation to Austin, Texas, presents a unique opportunity. It's a car that hasn't been restored, painted just once in the early 2000s, and it carries with it the patina of originality that collectors and enthusiasts yearn for.

The exterior, adorned in Highland Green, complements the brown upholstery of the interior, a combination that is both rare and stunning. Despite its age, the interior emanates a charm with slight wear, presenting an immaculate appearance that's remarkable for an unrestored vehicle.

Under the hood, the original 428-cubic-inch V8 engine resides, a sight that demands respect. Together with a numbers-matching automatic transmission, it represents the perfect mix of power and preservation. The engine is not just a piece of machinery; it's the heart of this legend, capable of delivering exhilarating performance that has been well maintained over the decades.

The GT500 is indeed a rarity, with just 1,542 units built. However, this particular car's combination of drivetrain, color, and options makes it even more unique. It's one of only 38 fastbacks finished in Highland Green and equipped with the Saddle Tan interior and automatic transmission. Adding to its rarity, the inclusion of air conditioning places it among an exclusive group of only eight produced with these specifications.

The allure of such a legendary muscle car has already attracted significant attention, with bidding surpassing $80,000. Given its rarity and the prices GT500s have commanded in the past, this figure may well climb, underscoring the enduring appeal and investment potential of these iconic vehicles.

As the auction clock winds down, this 1968 Shelby Mustang GT500 represents more than just a car; it's a piece of American muscle car history. Its survival in such original condition is a rarity that offers a glimpse into the past, bringing with it the excitement, style, and raw power that defined an era.