The 1967 Shelby Mustang GT500 is one of the most iconic muscle cars in automotive history. Originally introduced as a high-performance version of the Ford Mustang, the GT500 quickly became a legend in its own right. And perhaps the most famous example of the GT500 is the Eleanor, the modified Mustang driven by Nicolas Cage in the 2000 film “Gone in 60 Seconds”. In this article, we’ll explore the legacy of the 1967 Shelby Mustang GT500, including the GT500 Shelby Cobra, the Shelby GT500 Convertible, and of course, the legendary Eleanor.
1967 Ford Mustang GT500 Shelby Cobra
The 1967 Ford Mustang GT500 Shelby Cobra was the first of its kind. Built by Carroll Shelby, the GT500 was designed to be the ultimate high-performance version of the Mustang. With a 428-cubic-inch V8 engine capable of producing 355 horsepower and 420 pound-feet of torque, the GT500 was a true muscle car. Other features included a four-speed manual transmission, 15-inch wheels, and a revised suspension.
1967 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 Convertible
In addition to the GT500 Shelby Cobra, there was also a convertible version of the 1967 Shelby Mustang. The Shelby GT500 Convertible was based on the same platform as the GT500 Shelby Cobra but featured a retractable soft top. Under the hood, the convertible had the same 428-cubic-inch V8 engine and four-speed manual transmission as the GT500 Shelby Cobra. Only 204 Shelby GT500 Convertibles were ever produced, making them a rare find for collectors today.
1967 Shelby Mustang GT500 Eleanor
The 1967 Shelby Mustang GT500 Eleanor is perhaps the most famous example of the GT500. Modified for the film “Gone in 60 Seconds”, the Eleanor was built by legendary car designer Chip Foose. It featured a custom body kit, a unique paint scheme, and a heavily modified engine capable of producing 400 horsepower. Although only 11 Eleanors were built for the film, the car quickly became a cult classic among muscle car enthusiasts.
The Legacy of the 1967 Shelby Mustang GT500
Today, the 1967 Shelby Mustang GT500 remains one of the most sought-after muscle cars in the world. Its iconic design, powerful engine, and racing heritage have made it a legend among car enthusiasts. Whether it’s the GT500 Shelby Cobra, the Shelby GT500 Convertible, or the Eleanor, the GT500’s legacy lives on today. And with each passing year, these classic cars become even more valuable and sought after by collectors around the world.
