In an exciting announcement in 2018, Shelby American, Inc. revealed plans to produce a limited number of 50th Anniversary 1968 Shelby G.T.500KR “King of the Road” continuation muscle cars. These special edition vehicles were constructed using 1960s era Mustang donor cars and featured an authentic Shelby serial number, ensuring their place in the official Shelby registry. With big block motors under the hood, these iconic cars were available in both fastback and convertible body styles. The official debut took place at the Scottsdale Barrett-Jackson Auction from January 12-21, with a dedicated introduction event on January 20.
“Carroll Shelby was truly ‘the king of the road’ during the 1960s,” remarked Joe Conway, CEO of Shelby American. “His racing team dominated just about every form of motorsports and his cars ruled the road. As the 1968 Shelby G.T.500KR is often considered the ultimate symbol of that era, Shelby American offered a handful of continuation KRs to honor both the man and what many call the golden age of the American muscle car.”
Over recent years, Shelby American significantly expanded its lineup, responding to customer demand with new vehicles. The introduction of the 1968 Shelby Continuation G.T.500KR marked another historic milestone for the company, blending a nostalgic look back with a forward-thinking approach.
“Shelby American had the most diverse vehicle lineup of any automaker in the world,” said Gary Patterson, president of Shelby American. “An enthusiast could buy a modern muscle truck, an off-road capable pickup, or a sports car based on the current generation Ford Mustang. We also offered three versions of the historic Cobra, a GT40 continuation, and a genuine Shelby Cobra Daytona fastback. Now you could purchase a ‘new’ 1968 Shelby G.T.500KR through Shelby American. All these vehicles offered a thrilling driving experience, each in their own unique way.”
On January 20, during the Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Auction, Gary Patterson conducted a media and enthusiast introduction of the 1968 Shelby Continuation G.T.500KR at the Shelby American booth. This was the same venue where commemorative edition Shelby Cobras were introduced in 2012 and 2015, which quickly became instant collectibles, selling out in record time.
The original “King of the Road” G.T.500KR symbolized the peak of horsepower and torque in a Ford platform as the muscle car era began to wind down. It featured a cast iron version of Ford’s FE big block 428 cubic inch engine, available with either a manual or automatic transmission. High performance brakes, suspension, and unique styling elements inside and out set the G.T.500KR apart.
The 1968 Shelby Continuation G.T.500KR stayed true to its roots while offering modern enhancements. Available in both fastback and convertible forms, these cars boasted a 427 cubic inch engine from the Carroll Shelby Engine Co., available in either aluminum or cast iron, with a choice of manual or automatic transmission. Drivetrains were installed in 1968 Mustang donor cars, retaining their original factory VINs. Shelby spec suspensions and brakes ensured high performance, and customers could choose any standard Shelby colors from 1968, as each car was built to order. Anniversary badges were a distinctive addition to these limited edition vehicles.
Shelby American produced just 10 fastbacks and 10 convertibles of this commemorative G.T.500KR, each documented in the Shelby Registry and starting at a price of $249,995.
“The 1968 Shelby G.T.500KR was aggressive and visceral,” said Patterson. “For those who could remember it when the KR was introduced, or younger enthusiasts hoping to create their own memories, this new King of the Road represented a rare second chance to own a very special muscle car built just for them. This car represented a celebration of our roots, along with a validation of our future. There’s never been a better time to be a Shelby fan.”
Specs
Specifications and Performance Numbers
Engine:
- 427 cubic inch engine from Carroll Shelby Engine Co.
- Options: Aluminum or cast iron
Transmission:
- Manual or automatic transmission
Body Styles:
- Fastback
- Convertible
Chassis:
- 1968 Mustang donor cars with factory VINs intact
Suspension and Brakes:
- Shelby spec high performance suspension
- High performance brakes
Performance:
- Big block motor offering robust horsepower and torque (specific performance figures not detailed)
Design:
- Special styling touches inside and out
- Any standard Shelby colors from 1968 available
- Anniversary badges
Production:
- Limited to 10 fastbacks and 10 convertibles
- Documented in the Shelby Registry
Price:
- Starting at $249,995
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