1968 Shelby Mustang GT500 KR Fastback (LHD)

For 1968, Shelby production shifted to Metuchen, New Jersey for initial assembly then cars were transported to Ionia, Michigan where Shelby components were added at the A.O.Smith Company facility. The Shelby range for 1968 - now using the Cobra name - consisted of the small-block GT350 and big-block GT500, with the addition of convertible versions of either model. Unique styling, with fibreglass additions, helped distinguish the model from lesser Mustangs, with '65 Thunderbird rectangular taillights and longer grille (with inset driving lights) adding a purposeful appearance. Functional side scoops on the side panels and quarter panels plus unique steel wheels and stripes further enhanced the aggressive look of the new model. Inside the Deluxe Mustang interior was augmented by a centre console complete with Stewart-Warner oil pressure and alternator gauges along with a standard roll bar with inertia-reel seatbelts. Mid-way through the 1968 model year, Carroll Shelby introduced the hottest GT500 of all, known as the "King of the Road" (or KR for short). Employing the 428-cid Cobra-Jet V8 with 10.6:1 compression ratio, special hydraulic lifters, new headers and a bigger Holley four-barrel carburettor, the KR was conservatively rated at 335 hp at 5200 rpm (real output was probably closer to 400 hp ) with 440 lb/ft of torque at 3400 rpm. In addition to power front disc brakes and heavy-duty suspension, the KR had staggered shocks and a limited-slip diff. A choice of transmission options was available - either the four-speed close-ratio top loader manual box or C-6 automatic. The biggest, meanest Shelby Mustang of all, the KR was equally at home on the dragstrip (under 13-second quarter-mile times weren't unheard of) or cruising the highways. In total, 933 GT500KR fastbacks were built in 1968 and, like all of Carroll Shelby's products, all are now regarded as blue-chip muscle cars.