The 1968 Ford Mustang GT Fastback stands as a monumental response to the high-performance demands of the late sixties. While the Mustang was already a success, Ford needed a heavy hitter to challenge the dominance of big-block rivals. This mid-year introduction of the R-code 428 Cobra Jet engine effectively “fixed” Ford’s performance image overnight. The car presented here is one of only 1,044 Cobra Jet fastbacks produced during that pivotal year. According to its Elite Marti Report, this specific example is a true one-of-one build as equipped. It combines a Candyapple Red exterior with a specialized 4.30 Traction-Lok rear axle and a manual gearbox. This Mustang will be a featured attraction at the Kissimmee 2026 auction as Lot K324. It carries an estimated value between $150,000 and $175,000, reflecting its rarity and championship pedigree. For collectors, this fastback is not just a car, but a documented piece of Ford racing history. It captures the exact moment when the Mustang truly earned its reputation on the drag strip.
Candyapple Red Styling and GT Equipment Group Details
The exterior of this 1968 Ford Mustang GT Fastback is finished in striking Candyapple Red with black C-stripes. It features the mandatory functional Ram Air hood scoop that identifies it as a legitimate Cobra Jet powerhouse. As part of the GT Equipment Group, the car includes fog lamps, heavy-duty suspension, and GT-specific badges. Styled-steel wheels with GT hubcaps provide a refined but muscular look to the side profile. Quad-tip exhaust outlets exit at the rear, hinting at the high-displacement engine’s aggressive vocal range. Tinted glass surrounds the cabin, offering a subtle contrast to the vibrant red paintwork. The body lines on this fastback remain sharp and purposeful, emphasizing the classic long-hood, short-deck proportions. Every visual element, from the blacked-out hood treatment to the unique fuel cap, signals its performance intent. This aesthetic package was designed to look fast even when parked at a local Ford dealership. Consequently, it remains one of the most desirable visual configurations for any Mustang enthusiast. It is an unmistakable silhouette that defined the muscle car era.
Luxury Interior Decor and Traction-Lok Gear Specs
Inside the cabin, the 1968 Ford Mustang GT Fastback is equipped with the Interior Decor luxury group. This package includes black knit vinyl luxury bucket seats that provide a significant step up in comfort. Woodgrain accents adorn the dashboard and door panels, creating a sophisticated environment for the driver. A floor-mounted shifter for the four-speed manual transmission sits prominently between the front seats. This specific car also features an AM radio and the optional Interior Decor lighting package. One of the most critical hidden features is the 4.30 ratio Traction-Lok rear axle. This aggressive gearing was selected for maximum acceleration, making this car a formidable street machine. Because it is a four-speed GT, it also received the Competition Suspension with staggered rear shocks. This setup was essential for controlling wheel hop under the massive torque of the 428 engine. The interior remains a perfect blend of sixties luxury and pure, mechanical driver focus. It is a well-preserved space that honors the original Marti Report specifications. Every dial and control feels substantial and ready for a spirited run through the gears.
428 CI Cobra Jet V-8 Performance and 4-Speed Manual Specs
The 1968 Ford Mustang GT Fastback is powered by the legendary 428 CI Cobra Jet V-8 engine. This R-code powerplant was factory-rated with conservative figures to satisfy insurance companies, though its true potential was much higher. It features a heavy-duty block, high-flow cylinder heads, and the functional Ram Air induction system. This engine is paired with a four-speed manual transmission, offering the ultimate analog driving experience. Shifting through the gears allows the driver to fully exploit the 428’s massive torque reserves. Power front disc brakes provide the necessary stopping force to handle the vehicle’s high-speed capabilities. The mandated nine-inch rear axle ensures that the drivetrain remains reliable under heavy stress. On the road, the combination of the 4.30 gears and Cobra Jet power provides visceral, neck-snapping acceleration. This mechanical setup allowed the Mustang to dominate Super Stock Eliminator titles during its debut year. It remains a robust and highly sought-after drivetrain for serious Mopar and GM hunters. This fastback delivers the raw, unrefined power that built the Ford legend at the drag strip.
1968 Ford Mustang GT Fastback Summary
The 1968 Ford Mustang GT Fastback is a rare and impeccably documented survivor of the muscle car wars. Its status as a one-of-one production vehicle makes it a cornerstone for any serious Ford collection. The Candyapple Red paint and luxury interior prove that performance does not have to sacrifice style. With its 428 Cobra Jet engine and four-speed gearbox, it is a definitive example of an R-code Mustang. The inclusion of the Elite Marti Report and Cobra Jet Registry documentation ensures its long-term investment value. Recent services and its highly original specification make it a standout for the Kissimmee 2026 auction. It offers a level of exclusivity that few other Mustangs from the era can realistically match. This car represents the successful fulfillment of Lee Iacocca’s demand to “fix” Ford’s image. It is a functional piece of history that continues to command respect on both the street and the track. This fastback is truly a collector’s favorite for a reason. It is the ultimate expression of the 1968 Mustang’s competitive spirit.
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Source: mecum.com
