Chassis No.
9F03R483289
By 1969, the Shelby GT500 had evolved considerably from the stripped-down, race-inspired Mustangs that Carroll Shelby first transformed in 1965. As Ford's relationship with Shelby American matured, the cars became more refined grand touring machines, combining brutal big-block performance with luxury appointments and unmistakable styling. Although Carroll Shelby remained involved in the program, production had transitioned from Shelby American's California facility to the A.O. Smith plant in Ionia, Michigan, where the cars were completed under Ford's direction. The 1969 model ultimately marked the final true redesign of the original Shelby Mustang before the legendary partnership came to an end.
Sharing its foundation with the newly redesigned 1969 Mustang, the GT500 received dramatic Shelby-exclusive bodywork that set it apart from its Ford counterpart. A fiberglass front clip with a unique grille, functional hood scoops, integrated driving lights, rear deck spoiler, and distinctive five-spoke wheels gave the GT500 an aggressive appearance unlike anything else on the road. The convertible offered buyers the opportunity to enjoy Shelby performance with open-air motoring, while a well-appointed interior featuring woodgrain trim, high-back bucket seats, and numerous convenience features reflected the model's more luxurious mission.
Under the hood rested Ford's legendary 428-cubic-inch Cobra Jet V-8, conservatively rated at 335 horsepower and 440 lb-ft of torque. Available with either a close-ratio four-speed manual or rugged C-6 automatic transmission, the GT500 delivered effortless acceleration and immense torque. Produced in limited numbers, the 1969 Shelby GT500 Convertible remains one of the most desirable and collectible examples from the golden age of American muscle.
One of the more prized muscle cars of the era is this correct, and original 1969 Shelby GT500 Convertible. Thoroughly documented by its original window sticker, Shelby invoice, Marti Report, and noted in the Shelby American World Registry, this example carries the highest and last known serial number on a 1969 GT500 Convertible. Built on 6-24-1969, it was sold new by Gilboy Ford Mercury Inc. in Allentown, Pennsylvania on 8-21-1969 to its original owner Charles J. Donchez of Pennsylvania.
Equipped with its legendary, numbers-matching 428-cubic-inch Cobra Jet V-8 engine, desirable factory four-speed manual transmission and rear end, it also retains its original sheet metal. Finished in its original and rare color of Gulfstream Aqua, it is 1 of just 14 factory GT500s finished in this color over a Black Clarion Knit vinyl interior. The cabin features its original upholstery, new correct carpet, an AM radio, deluxe belts, and the interior decor group-deluxe package. To further this Shelby GT500 Convertible's desirability and drivability, it is factory equipped with power steering, power brakes, factory competition suspension, and a new black convertible soft top.
Verified by its original documents and listed in the Shelby World Registry, this numbers-matching, Gulfstream Aqua 428 Cobra Jet V-8, four-speed manual transmission GT500, checks all the right boxes for the collector seeking a real deal, blue chip automobile from the height of the muscle car era.
* Numbers-matching example retaining its original sheet metal
* 1 of only 69 examples with a factory four-speed manual transmission
* 1 of just 14 examples factory finished in Gulfstream Aqua over black
* Highly documented by its original window sticker, Shelby invoice, Marti Report, and noted in the Shelby World Registry
* The highest and last known serial number on a 1969 GT500 Convertible
* Legendary 428 Cobra Jet V-8 engine with factory power steering and power brakes
From the Kruse Auctions
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