1967 Shelby Ford Shelby Facts, Information & History

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The 1967 Shelby models, specifically the Shelby GT350 and GT500, represented a continuation of Carroll Shelby's collaboration with Ford to create high-performance variants of the Mustang. The 1967 Shelby GT350 retained its focus on sharp handling and performance, featuring a modified V8 engine and sport-tuned suspension. The GT500, introduced for the first time in 1967, was powered by a more potent big-block V8 engine, making it one of the most powerful muscle cars of its era. Both models featured distinctive styling cues, including a unique front grille and prominent side stripes. The 1967 Shelby Mustangs are highly regarded by enthusiasts and collectors for their combination of power, performance, and iconic design.

In 1967, Shelby American produced a total of 2,048 Shelby Mustangs across various models and configurations. This production included both Shelby GT350 and Shelby GT500 models. The breakdown of the production numbers for 1967 Ford Shelby models is as follows:

Shelby GT350 Fastback: 1,175 units
Shelby GT500 Fastback: 2,048 units

These production numbers reflect the relative rarity of these vehicles, contributing to their desirability among collectors and enthusiasts. It's important to note that the Shelby GT500 was introduced for the first time in the 1967 model year, marking the beginning of a series of high-performance GT500 models in the Shelby Mustang lineup.

The 1967 Ford Shelby Mustangs, specifically the GT350 and GT500 models, continued to have a notable presence in motorsports and racing, particularly in road racing and various competition events. Here are some significant aspects of the 1967 Ford Shelby Mustangs in racing:

Trans-Am Racing: The Shelby GT350 remained active in the SCCA Trans-Am racing series. The GT350 was specially modified for racing, including enhancements to suspension, brakes, and aerodynamics. The car's handling and performance improvements allowed it to compete at a high level in this competitive road racing series.

GT500 Racing: The introduction of the GT500 model in 1967 marked an expansion of the Shelby Mustang lineup. While not as extensively involved in racing as the GT350, the GT500 still participated in various events, showcasing its powerful engine and performance attributes.

Endurance and International Racing: Some Shelby Mustangs, both GT350 and GT500 models, were used in endurance races and international events, demonstrating their capabilities over long distances and on diverse tracks.

Drivers and Teams: The Shelby Mustangs were driven by talented and experienced drivers, contributing to their racing successes. Notable drivers like Jerry Titus and Horst Kwech continued to be associated with Shelby racing efforts.

Racing Legacy: The continued presence of the Shelby Mustangs in racing events helped solidify their reputation as high-performance machines and showcased their adaptability across different types of motorsport competitions.

While the focus of the Shelby Mustangs was gradually shifting towards a broader market, their involvement in racing during 1967 continued to contribute to their iconic status and helped maintain their connection to the world of motorsports.

The 1967 Ford Shelby Mustangs, especially the GT350 and GT500 models, have appeared in various movies and television shows due to their iconic design and powerful performance. Here are a few notable examples of their appearances in movies:

Gone in 60 Seconds (2000): One of the most famous appearances of a 1967 Ford Shelby GT500 is in the 2000 remake of "Gone in 60 Seconds." The car, named "Eleanor," is a central element of the film and is pursued by the main characters in a series of high-speed chases.

Bullitt (1968): While the film primarily features a 1968 Ford Mustang GT in the famous car chase scene, a 1967 Ford Shelby GT500 briefly appears as one of the vehicles involved in the chase.

War of the Worlds (2005): A 1967 Ford Shelby GT500 can be seen parked in a suburban driveway in the background of a scene in this science fiction film.

Fast Five (2011): While the movie mainly focuses on modern cars, a 1967 Ford Shelby GT500 is featured in a scene, driven by the character Tej Parker, portrayed by Ludacris.

Pawn Sacrifice (2014): In this biographical drama film about chess prodigy Bobby Fischer, a 1967 Ford Shelby GT500 is seen in a brief scene on the streets of New York.

The Nice Guys (2016): A 1967 Ford Shelby GT500 makes an appearance in this crime comedy film set in the 1970s.

These are just a few examples of how the 1967 Ford Shelby Mustangs have been featured in movies, showcasing their timeless design and powerful presence in the world of cinema.