Produced for just one model year, the 1968 Shelby GT500KR requires virtually no introduction. Powered by Fords infamous 428 Cobra Jet V-8 engine putting out 335 factory-rated horsepower but far more in reality, the KR was the true King of the Road when new with unique styling, Shelby-specific features and massive, tire-smoking performance. Out of total Shelby production for 68 of 4,451 cars, only 267 GT500KR convertibles were built with a 4-speed manual transmission. We are honored to offer this 4-speed-equipped 1968 Shelby GT500KR Convertible, undoubtedly one of the finest available anywhere today.
Carrying fully known and documented history from new, this KR retains its original 428 Cobra Jet V-8 engine with the correct 4-speed Toploader manual transmission. Following assembly, it was shipped to Larsen Ford in White Plains, New York and subsequently transferred to Lyman Gridley Lincoln-Mercury in Elmira, New York, where it was eventually purchased in October 1969. The original owners young neighbor admired the KR for the next two years, eventually purchasing it during September 1971. The pride and joy of the second owner, the KR remained with him for the next 46 years, a true constant through every important life moment to come. Following the owners eventual move to California in 1980, the Shelby was driven cross-country from New York to his new home state in 1982 and then placed into long-term storage there until it was given a long-term professional restoration to original glory from 2001-08, including rebuilding of the engine and transmission, plus a rebuild of the rear end including a new ring and pinion and clutches for the Traction-Lok limited-slip differential. A total of more than $104,000 invested in the process, documented by itemized receipts on file.
Factory options and equipment are numerous in keeping with Shelby Mustangs and include the correct and original 428 CJ engine with 8E6 Date Code denoting May 6, 1968 plus the correct Toploader 4-speed manual transmission. Other factory-installed features and options include the GT Equipment Group, Visibility Group, Power Steering, Power Front Disc Brakes, Tilt-Away Steering Column, Factory AM Radio, interior Dcor Group, Black Bucket Seats with Center Console, Tachometer and Full Gauge Package, Power Convertible Top with Glass Backlight rear window, and 15-inch wheels with full mag wheel-style Shelby wheel covers. The crucial Shelby American ID tag and fender tag are both still in place and in addition, Carroll Shelbys iconic signature graces the vehicles glove box, complete with a verification certificate. Other documentation includes this KRs listing in the SAAC (Shelby American Automobile Club) World Registry and the aforementioned restoration receipts, plus prior registration copies, a copy of the factory invoice and a Marti Report listing the Shelbys many original details. Rare, beautifully restored, fully documented and ready to go, this 1968 Shelby GT500KR is unquestionably one of the finest available. Contact us today to see it for yourself and add it to your collection!