The 1965 Shelby GT350 Fastback represents a time when the line between a road car and a track machine was razor thin. This specific unit, serial SFM5S192, is one of only 521 street versions ever produced during the debut year. It captures the raw mechanical spirit of Carroll Shelby’s vision, offering a visceral driving experience that modern performance cars rarely replicate.
Rare Early Production Fiberglass Details
Early units of the 1965 Shelby GT350 Fastback featured distinct parts that set them apart from later iterations. This car retains its rare all-fiberglass plenum hood, a lightweight addition meant to improve cooling and aerodynamics. Originally shipped to Milo Brooke in Chicago, the vehicle has benefited from a comprehensive professional restoration. Every detail aligns with its factory identity, ensuring it remains a benchmark for the model year.
Authentic Racing Hardware and Undercarriage
The chassis was engineered to handle much more than just straight-line speed. It features Koni adjustable shocks and rear traction bars to keep the power planted during heavy cornering. A 9-inch rear end with 3.89 gears and a Detroit Locker provides the mechanical grip needed for aggressive starts. These competition-ready components remain a testament to why the car dominated its class in SCCA racing.
A Purposeful Black Vinyl Cockpit
Inside the 1965 Shelby GT350 Fastback, the environment is strictly focused on the task of driving. A wood-rimmed steering wheel sits before a dash-mounted 8,000 RPM tachometer with a prominent 6,500 redline. The rear floor is a fiberglass panel with the spare tire mounted directly beneath the rear glass. This layout emphasizes weight distribution and functionality over the typical comforts of a standard Mustang.
Period Correct Trim and Accessories
Small details often define the value of a high-tier restoration in the collector market. This Shelby features rare Talbot Berlin sideview mirrors and Shelby Cragar wheels that enhance its period-correct look. The battery is mounted in the trunk to further optimize the vehicle’s balance on the track. Such choices show a dedication to the original engineering goals established by the Shelby American team.
HiPo 289 V8 Output and Mechanical Specs
The heart of this 1965 Shelby GT350 Fastback is the HiPo 289 V-8 engine factory rated at 306 horsepower. It utilizes a Holley 715 CFM 4-barrel carburetor and a Cobra aluminum intake manifold for maximum breathing. Power is channeled through a Borg Warner 4-speed manual transmission, allowing for total driver engagement. Tri-Y headers and side-exit exhaust pipes ensure the car sounds as fierce as it performs.
Summary of a Shelby American Masterpiece
This 1965 Shelby GT350 Fastback stands as an elite example of a first-year performance icon. Its documented history in the Shelby Registry and professional restoration make it a significant opportunity for any serious collector. From the Wimbledon White paint to the high-revving 289 V-8, every aspect reflects the golden era of American racing. It remains a definitive piece of automotive history heading to the Glendale 2026 stage.
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Source: mecum.com
