We all love a good barn find story. And it doesn’t get much better than the icon of American motorsports – a Mustang. In particular, this is a 1968 Shelby Mustang GT500KR.
KR stands for “King of Road” – an upgraded version of the GT500, featuring the 428 Cobra Jet V8 engine. It’s a derivative of the engine used in the Ford GTs which achieved the 1-2-3 victory at 24 Hours of LeMans in 1966. To commemorate the heritage, the aluminum valve covers of the Cobra Jet engine were engraved with “Cobra LeMans”.
With a 735 CMF Holley Carburetor and a ram-air induction via the intake scoop on the hood, the engine developed up to 410 horsepower and 420 lb/ft of torque. Though, Ford rated it at 355 hp for insurance purposes.
Either way, the car was a smashing success, grabbing multiple victories at the 1968 NHRA Winternationals.
The example we’re talking about is just one of 15 cars produced in 1968 with its exact specification. Just one of those was shipped to a dealership in Texas, where it was purchased from. At some point in the 70s’, the Mustang was abandoned in a barn to be discovered 30 years later by Amos Minter.
The years of neglect had taken their toll on the vehicle, but Amos took up the task to restore glorious roar of the Cobra Jet V8 engine. The car is mechanically rebuilt and in great running condition. However, to honor the unusual history of his Mustang, the owner decided to leave the Raven Black exterior and interior as found.
Now, this 1968 Shelby GT500KR is headed to auction May at Mecum Indianapolis. Such a rare specimen is bound to attract some interest on the auction block, so it’s anyone’s guess about the price. It’s up to the new owner to decide if they want to preserve the authentic look or restore it to factory condition.
