Lot 026: 1968 FORD SHELBY MUSTANG GT500

Part of the collection since 1995, this particular left-hand drive example is thought to be one of just 1,140 '68 GT500 Fastbacks made. Bought on the understanding that it had been the subject of a recent "frame-off restoration", its big-block V8 (rated in period at 355hp and 420lbft of torque) is married to a four-speed 'Top Loader' manual gearbox. Trimmed in black vinyl with matching carpets, its interior includes an integral roll bar, 'wood grain' trim panels, fold-flat rear seats, air-conditioning, Shelby American Inc kick-plates, comprehensive instrumentation (140mph speedo, 8,000rpm tacho, centre console mounted auxiliary gauges) and a Philco push-button radio. Dressed with 'Cobra Le Mans' rocker covers, a blue painted inlet manifold and 'Cobra' air filter housing, its imposing powerplant sits behind a radiator cross-member chalked with the number '974'. Finished in Acapulco Blue with twin white side stripes, it rides on 10-spoke alloys and carries Marchal spotlights. Faster than Steve McQueen's Bullitt Mustang of the same year, the GT500 is an all-time great. PLEASE NOTE: Mr Van Dijk has informed us that this car has had a recent 23,000 Euro engine overhaul by a Dutch specialist and will therefore require careful running in.