For forty years
there was only one 1967 Shelby GT500 convertible. Now, thanks to
Legendary GT Continuation Cars, the legend continues with the
EXP500CSS convertible, a Shelby-certified authentic replica of
that famous car.
Painted in Bright Red with black interior and white top, the car
wears white sill stripes with “EXP 500 CSS” lettering and a
facsimile of Carroll Shelby’s signature on the doors. All the
original 1967 GT500 styling cues are present: Shelby GT500 badging,
twin-scoop fiberglass hood and custom front- and rear-end
treatments, integrated rear spoiler and Thunderbird-style
taillights, Cobra quick-release fuel filler cap and rear fender
side-scoops. Goodyear tires on Kelsey-Hayes Magstar wheels are
mounted over power-assisted front disc and rear drum brakes.
The 428ci Police Interceptor engine is in the classic GT500 style:
twin four-barrel Holley carbs mounted atop an aluminum tunnel-ram
intake are nestled between large-valve Le Mans-spec heads. The top
end is finished with cast aluminum “Cobra Le Mans” valve
covers and oblong air cleaner. Exhaust is handled by Cobra Jet
header manifolds, integrated as original with a correct and
properly functioning Ford emission-control system. Power winds
through a specially-built C6 automatic transmission and on to the
Ford 9-inch Detroit Locker rear end containing 3.0:1 gears.
The interior features the car’s only departure from originality
in that the rollbar has been upgraded to the stronger 1968
version. The rest is a combination of professionally refurbished
or NOS components, including new top, window glass and seating.
The driver is presented with the full range of controls, including
those for the air conditioning and AM radio. Instrumentation
includes the under-dash Shelby twin gauge pod. Everything here is
beautifully finished in black, chrome and brushed metal save for
the handsome wood-rimmed aluminum spoke steering wheel.
As is his practice, Shelby has added his personal touch by
hand-signing the dash above the glovebox door. The signature theme
is repeated in the trunk, which features a facsimile stitched into
the custom spare tire cover.
Shelby’s Continuation Series concept was a stroke of genius that
has created a whole new generation of great cars, including this
absolute jewel, for enthusiasts of all ages. And as with all
Shelbys, this exceptional car is welcomed by the Shelby American
Automobile Club and is eligible for the World Shelby Registry.