Few figures in automotive history become known outside the world of gearheads and car collectors. Among those legends is race car driver and automotive designer Carroll Shelby. He was so famous by early 1967 that his autobiography, The Carroll Shelby Story, was a best-seller. And that was before the public saw his most enduring creation, the 1967 Shelby GT500.

The GT500 wasn't the first Ford Mustang modified by Shelby and his team, as it followed the 1965 GT350/GT350R and 1966 GT350H. As innovative as those models were, the 1967 Shelby GT500 has come to be known as the ultimate high-performance Mustang.

1967 Mustang: The Birth of a Legendary Automobile

For the GT500, Shelby replaced the GT350's high-revving 289 cubic-inch V8 with Ford's 428 cubic-inch Police Interceptor engine. This produced a monstrous 355 horsepower and 420 foot-pounds of torque, staggering figures for the time. Beyond all that power, the 1967 Shelby GT500 had a muscular presence with its fiberglass hood scoop, driving lights, distinctive stripes, and side scoops that gave the car its muscular presence.

All this added up to a driving experience like no other. The roar of its big block engine, the instant surge of power, and its surprisingly nimble handling made driving an absolute thrill.

Car and Driver magazine's 1967 road test noted the raw power: "The GT500 is not a racing car, but for a few subtle differences, its engine is the same as the one that propelled Shelby's Fords to victory at Le Mans." That magazine also praised Shelby's design, exclaiming, "Seven liters! Four hundred and twenty-eight cubic inches in a Mustang!!"

With that, a legend was born. The era of the American muscle car began, with the 1967 Mustang Shelby GT500 as the archetype of all that followed.

The Shelby GT500 Mustang as a Cultural Icon

In the years since the 1967 Shelby GT500 debuted, it has come to represent speed, power, and American innovation. Its many appearances in the media prove its status as a cultural icon.

Perhaps the most notable example is the 2000 film *Gone in 60 Seconds*, which featured Nicolas Cage and Angelina Jolie, but the real star was Eleanor, a customized GT500. Today, Eleanor replica projects are a mainstay of the hobbyist and collector's markets.

The 2019 film *Ford v Ferrari* was based on *The Carroll Shelby Story* and Shelby's efforts to build a race car for the 1966 24 Hours of Le Mans. Although these events pre-date the 1967 Shelby GT500, the car Shelby's team created was essentially the GT500 prototype. Therefore, cinema audiences were treated to Matt Damon playing Carroll Shelby and the circumstances that led to his greatest creation.

The original 1967 Shelby GT500s hold significant value on the collector's market today. Pristine examples can fetch prices well into the six-figure range and sometimes even break the million-dollar mark. Their rarity, historical significance, and undeniable cool factor make them a Holy Grail for car collectors and muscle car enthusiasts worldwide.

While genuine originals command top dollar, there's been a surge in both continuation cars, officially licensed by Ford to be "original," along with quality replicas to give more people a chance to own a part of this history. Given the GT500's iconic status, it seems unlikely there will ever be a time when there won't be any interest in new takes on the automotive classic.

Moreover, the car’s influence extends beyond just collectors; it has inspired numerous car clubs and enthusiast gatherings, further cementing its place in automotive culture. The GT500's blend of historic significance, powerful performance, and cinematic fame ensures its legendary status endures.

The Enduring Legacy of the GT500

The 1967 Shelby GT500's legacy continues to this day. Enthusiasts know that it helped shape the performance car landscape, pushing the boundaries of what a Mustang could be and inspiring Ford, along with its rivals, to build ever-more powerful machines. Even people who don't know much about cars recognize the names "Shelby" and "GT500" as something special in automotive history.

Ford continues to capitalize on this enduring legacy. The GT500 name still graces the highest-performance Mustang variants. The 2024 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 pays homage to its ancestors with a supercharged engine capable of over 700 horsepower, combined with modern performance-enhancing technology. It's a testament to the staying power of the Shelby GT500 and the enduring appeal of the American muscle car.

So, why does the 1967 Shelby GT500 continue to fascinate gearheads and the general public alike? Part of it comes down to Carroll Shelby's reputation, but the fact is that the GT500 was a car that dared to be different. It pushed the limits of performance and captured the imagination of generations. Its unmistakable design, powerful engine, and storied racing heritage make it a symbol of American automotive excellence. Collectors and enthusiasts continue to celebrate its impact, ensuring its place in history.

ECD and the Custom GT500 of Your Dreams

ECD Auto Design is proud to add the Ford Mustang to its lineup of custom vehicles. With the meticulous craftsmanship and expertise in building bespoke classic cars and trucks ECD is known for, you can now own the custom-built Mustang of your dreams, including the 1967 Shelby GT500. If you're interested in a fully customizable classic Mustang or GT500, contact us today to get started.