1965 Ford Shelby GT350 in the Ford Pavilion at the 1964 World’s Fair in New York. (Photos courtesy of Ford PR archives)
The racing circuit changed forever when sales of the 1965 Ford Shelby GT350 launched on Jan. 27, 1965, according to AutomotiveHistory.org.
“The GT was based on 1965 Ford Mustang Fastbacks that originally left the factory with a 271 HP 289 V8 and a 4 on the floor. Carroll Shelby had the stock vehicles shipped to Shelby American where his team stripped the car of weight. The car then received performance upgrades, such as high-riser intake manifolds, a four-barrel carburetor, and custom exhaust headers, boosting horsepower to 306.
All 1965 Ford Shelbys (562) were painted Wimbledon White with Guardsman Blue stripes.
“In 1965 Shelby built 562 examples, all painted Wimbledon White with Guardsman Blue stripes. In 1966 the cars received updates to attract more general consumers, as opposed to strictly track racers. The 1966 GT 350 was available with optional rear vent windows and back seats and came in an array of colors. They were also equipped with a functional hood and rear brake air scoops and a three-speed automatic transmission was made available.
“Production of the first generation of Shelby Mustangs would last through 1971 with the GT 350 and GT 500.”
