Shelby Forums - Shelby of the Month - January 2009 1/2009 clove9414 Shelby Forums username :clove9414 Year: 1968 Make: Shelby Model: GT500KR Shelby Number: 8T03R205293-03276 Engine: 428 COBRA JET Trans: FOUR SPEED MANUAL Exterior color: HIGHLAND GREEN Interior color: Black Selling Dealer: LARSEN FORD, INC Options: This car was built on 05/24/68 at the Metuchen plant. Here is a complete list of options for #03276: 3.50 Traction-Lok axle ratio Four-Speed Manual Transmission Power Front Disc Brakes Power Steering Shoulder Harness Radio-AM Push Button Tilt-Pop Steering Wheel Black Decor Bucket Seats Highland Green Paint Black Power Convertible Top w/Glass Backlite Only 16 identical GT500KR convertible cars were equipment this way, four shipped to New York State. Note from current owner: This is my 1968 GT500KR convertible. I bought it from the original owner in September of 1971 and it has been in my possession since. It has never been altered except for keystone mag wheels that I put on shortly after buying the car. The original hubcaps were stored in my parent's basement for thirty-six years which accounts for their "like new" conditions. Two months ago a complete frame off restoration was completed which took seven years. I resisted the temptation to make modifications to the car and it is completely stock. The same condition as it was when it was shipped from the factory. The Le Mans strip is of course dealer added. The restorer tried to get me to delete it from the car when it was repainted but, to me, it is part of the personality of the car and it would not be the same without it. That strip says "Look at me, I'm something special" very boldly. This car is listed in the SAAC registry and I have the Marti report for it. It was shipped on 6/6/68 to: LARSEN FORD, INC. 80 WESTCHESTER AVENUE WHITE PLAINS, NEW YORK It was subsequently sold to another dealer: LYMAN D. GRIDLEY LINCOLN MERCURY ELMIRA, NEW YORK I saw this car on their lot as a new car. It was sold to Grant Storms of Elmira, N.Y. in 1968 and I purchased the car from him in 1971. According to Marti this car is one of sixteen identical cars, four of which were shipped to dealers in New York State. It was restored to it new factory condition and won a "Judges Choice" award at it's first car show appearance. Charles Alterations: Signed by Carroll Shelby Pictures
Absolutely beautiful Charles. You are very fortunate. I was Stateside July/August last year and attended the Motor Trend nationals at Minnesota Fair Grounds where I was lucky enough to check out some really nice Mustangs amongst other muscle cars (5000+)! There was a beautiful red KR500 there being used on a trade display. I also went down to the VOLO Museum on a Sunday when there was an external display of Shelbys and Mopars including an unmolested KR350 running a 302 being shown on behalf of a client by Patrick Crook (showyourauto.com). I was sweating on attending the 40th anniversary get together but the final commencement date decided, ended up being the day I returned for OZ. Cheers, Peter.
Great car Charles, I agree with your statement on the Lemans stripes. Some purist don't like them but they can leave them off their cars. I think they look right at home on your car.
Dear Mr. 9414, I agree with you about the Le Mans stripes being a part of the car's personality. Your car has them, but I can't imagine my green KR with black interior and top with them. But I wouldn't have my white 67 without them. John
VERY NICE car indeed! I love to see these older cars that someone has cherished over the years, but enjoyed driving them too.
