1965 Ford GT350 Fastback

A very early two-digit 1965 Shelby GT350 represents the purest expression of Carroll Shelby’s original high-performance Mustang formula, and examples of this caliber rank among the most coveted of all Shelby production. Built during the formative days of Shelby American, these early cars carry extraordinary historical importance. These early cars had many production nuances that separate them from the later cars. One of the most interesting is the use of a very dark primer on the underbody rather than the more predominant red oxide most are familiar with. For serious collectors, these early-production GT350s sit firmly at the pinnacle of the Shelby hierarchy.

This exceptional example is a very early two-digit car that has been treated to a complete concours-level rotisserie restoration to the highest standards by noted Shelby expert and former SAAC Concours Chairman Jim Cowles. Restored with extreme attention to originality, every nut and bolt has been meticulously addressed, resulting in a car that reflects a level of accuracy seldom seen—even among the finest restorations. This GT350 stands as a benchmark example, retaining an extraordinary number of “unobtainium” original parts, a defining characteristic that elevates it well beyond the majority of any restored cars anywhere.

Power is delivered by its original matching-numbers Hi-Po 289/306 HP V-8 engine, retaining significant original components including the early S1MS intake manifold, 715 CFM Holley LeMans carburetor, original Carter “Button Top” fuel pump, and dual-point distributor. The drivetrain is further anchored by its original aluminum-case T-10 4-speed transmission, backed up by the race-bred factory 3.89 Detroit Locker rear differential, providing the raw, mechanical driving experience that defined the GT350 legend. The car rides on Shelby Cragar wheels fitted with proper Goodyear Blue Dot tires, perfectly capturing its purposeful, competition-bred stance. The undercarriage has been restored and detailed to the highest level, showcasing correct finishes and factory-correct presentation throughout.

Documented and authenticated, this Shelby is listed in the Shelby Registry. Work at Shelby American was completed on March 17, 1965, and the car was delivered new to Ray Hunt Ford in Daytona Beach, Florida. It is accompanied by Shelby American invoices, a GT350 Owner’s Manual, 1965 Mustang Owner’s Manual, Ford High Performance Manual, and No Spin Differentials Operator’s Manual, along with a complete ownership history supported by numerous historical photographs. Both the Shelby and Ford Vin have been authenticated by SAAC. The car’s exceptional quality has been formally recognized with an MCACN Concours Gold certificate, an award reserved for automobiles restored and presented to the highest standards of authenticity.

Combining its very early two-digit production status, matching-numbers drivetrain, concours-level restoration by a marque expert, and an extraordinary level of originality, this 1965 Shelby GT350 represents a true blue-chip collector-grade investment—and one of the finest, most authentic examples available anywhere today.