Rarity claims will always ignite debate within the classic world, and I expect my research on this 1969 Ford Shelby Mustang GT500 to be no different. The 1969 GT500 wasn’t produced in huge numbers, and the combination of options could make this one of the rarest of the breed. It is an original and unmolested survivor that is ready for a new home. The seller has listed the Shelby here on eBay in El Paso, Texas. Bidding sits at $74,100 in a No Reserve auction.
This GT500 is an absolute gem, and with only 1,872 examples of the GT500 emerging in 1969, its rarity is already guaranteed. However, my research indicates that it is only 1-of-33 ordered wearing what was termed Competition Red paint. That isn’t the end of the story because various sources suggest that only seventeen of those cars were ordered with air conditioning. If that figure is accurate, it does nothing but increase the desirability of this classic. The car presents well for its age, with no signs of significant flaws in its panels or paint. There are no signs or indications of prior restoration work, suggesting it is a genuine survivor. The photos show no evidence of existing rust, and none is mentioned in the listing. The stripes look crisp and clean, the car retains its correct badges and trim, and the 15″ wheels are excellent.
Powering this Shelby is the fire-breathing 428 Cobra Jet V8. This brute sends 335hp and 440 ft/lbs of torque to the road via a three-speed C6 automatic transmission. That makes this a seriously fast classic, but the power assistance for the steering and front disc brakes ensures the driver won’t expend excess energy behind the wheel. Physical dimensions and overall vehicle weight had both increased courtesy of Ford’s 1969 restyle, but the fact this classic could still scorch the ¼-mile in 14.9 seconds confirmed it was no pushover. The seller’s listing lacks specific information on this GT500, which is frustrating for a classic of this caliber. It is unclear whether it is numbers-matching, and while the seller claims an odometer reading of 63,000 genuine miles, they don’t mention verifying evidence. Making life more difficult, there is no information on how well the car runs or drives. It is hoped that the seller is approachable because potential buyers may have plenty of questions requiring answers.
The original owner ordered this GT500 with its interior trimmed in Black. If it is a genuine survivor, that makes the lack of visible wear and physical damage particularly noteworthy. The condition could also make the mileage claim appear plausible. The upholstered surfaces look virtually faultless, and there are no aftermarket additions beyond the fire extinguisher and wheel wrap. It would undoubtedly draw favorable comments wherever this car goes. The original owner also chose some desirable options, and all appear intact. The new owner benefits from air conditioning, a Sport Deck rear seat, a tilt-away wheel, and an AM radio/8-track player.
I generally treat rarity claims for any classic cautiously and leave the path clear for readers to state their opinions. However, this is an occasion where you may wish to shoot the messenger because the production totals and figures quoted in this article come from my research, not the seller. In these circumstances, I never rely on a single resource, but it is fair to assume that none are infallible. It may mean that some of my figures are incorrect, and I am happy to be corrected if that is the case. Therefore, you may have conflicting information, and I always welcome those views. This is not the first time we’ve seen this GT500, with it featured in this excellent article produced last year by Barn Finds writer Brian K. Determining whether it sold on that occasion is difficult, but with No Reserve in play now, a new home is only days away. Are you tempted to make it yours?
The problem with this listing is that there is no evidence of the original drivetrain or any Shelby registry info I would be skeptical of its authenticity.
I’m a die hard Ford guy and I have a 69 mach Q code everything is documented .and I have to agree with you I see no shelby tag on the fender apron
Great write up Adam on an awesome car! If your numbers are correct and I’m sure they are this is indeed a gem! If only I could win the lottery! My big question is how does a car like this get driven only 63k? A quarter mile at a time? Or has she just been a pampered garage queen all these years?
Great color, 62 bids already. Does the 8 track tape come with it?
Now that’s a car, y’all, and whether or not she’s numbers matching is only little piddly details to be quibbled about by folks who have way more money than actual respect for what this car is. I salute it’s new owner and hope you respect it enough not to destroy it, but please at least enjoy one smoke show before you polish her up and hide it in your warehouse…
Love your comment 👍 Couldn’t put it better.what a magnificent car!
It’s a beautiful GT500 but proof is what you want to pay Hugh bucks here. Proof of mileage and if the drive train is original to the Shelby. I will never understand when a manufacturer calls the color red and it looks orange. And how come no pictures of the back? Hiding something? The way it looks from the photos we have . I am guessing its a straight up Shelby. Well good luck to the next owner.. 🐻🇺🇸
Two words……Yes please
Yank the 428, put in modern Super charged Coyote 5.0 and now you have something.
You don’t perfect beauty. If you want American spit. Put that in one that needs fixed
The engine looks way to clean to for it to be totally original. Meaning it’s at least been apart for a rebuild, that makes you wonder if it’s the original or not. Would definitely need proof for that kind of money
Not necessarily rebuilt. Could have pulled the motor to regasket and repaint. But, I do agree, it looks too clean to assume it has not at least been removed at some point.
Trust then verify, Ron Reagan…
He might have been a Mustang president..?
Heck, even a Marti Report would suffice.
If this is the real thing,should go above $100k,but double checking authenticity is a must.
Auto hurts value very much like 20-30k
Passenger side appears to have a respray.
Either the door rear fender or front fender. I would bet front fender.
Not enough description on this one for the money.
Drivers side is the same, I see what you mean the color is off slightly on both front fenders, but this could be attributed to the fact that Shelbys were built out of cars that were already painted at the Ford factory and the front end had to be color matched when the conversion from Mustang to Shelby took place. And as a fiberglass front end painted at a different time from a steel body may fade differently, this doesn’t necessarily mean a respray of parts happened.
Paint jobs on panels need to be viewed in person. Shooting pictures in daylight with shadows and sunlight are deceiving. Spray a car in a booth then push it outside any you will pick up the difference.
This was nearing the end of the line for Shelby. So many 69s sat unsold that they were returned to the factory and given new 1970 serial numbers. By 69 you could option a Mustang or Mach I with the same power trains for far less money.
Buyer Beware. Before you part with any of your money, put your hands on this car. Same pics of this car are being used from over a year ago when it was on eBay and it was being sold in the Houston area.
Nobody noticing most pictures are NOT current? I can’t stand when sellers use pictures from years ago like this scam artist. With zero documentation, zero “Shelby build sheet” present, no marti reports ,no nothing! Not even paperwork kept in the glovebox. No estimate report.
Suckers are born every day. When this once wrecked Mustang makes its way to the new owner it will be for sale again in a year.
Nice looking well presented. Engine looks like a rebuilt or dressed for success.
Run the numbers at Shelby Registry or Shelby Forum.
Deduct $5k for wood paneling.
Engine is nice and clean, but not so much for the rest of the engine compartment,also bushings in the top of the shocks appear to be worn out. The car does show nicely.
This car was listed a few months ago on BaT.
I contacted this seller a few days ago and have heard nothing.
Also, there is a GT500 and a GT350 on eBay that were also on BaT a few months ago. I contacted those supposed sellers with no response (one is 10 minutes from my house).
Buyer beware (I have also contacted eBay).
This Shelby was also subject to BF article in 2013 which provides more information.
Sold $77,877.77 70 bids.