The Shelby Mustang GT 500KR Sports Car

1967 Ford Shelby Mustang GT 500 'Eleanor' Image

from Classic to Modern

The Ford Shelby Mustang GT 350 sports car of 1967 became even more impressive when, in 1968, the Shelby Mustang GT 500KR (King of the Road) was introduced.

This was fitted with a completely updated version of the 7 litre, 428ci, V8 Police Interceptor engine, referred to as the 428 Cobra Jet, with two four-barrel Holley carburettors, enlarged exhaust manifolds, and modified heads to increase breathing.

This engine developed 360 bhp at 5400 rpm, and 420 ft/lbs of torque at 3200 rpm.

Fitted with a 4 speed manual gearbox, and a 10.5:1 compression, it produced a top speed of 129 mph, with 0-60 mph in 6.2 secs, and a standing 1/4 mile in 14.7 secs.

With front discs and rear drums, it had a curb weight of 1725 kg. By this time, the Mustang sports car was one of the most in-demand cars in the US.

For a close look at the Shelby Mustang GT 350, see: 1967 Ford Shelby Mustang GT 350