True survivor Shelbys are getting harder to find, especially when they still wear their history openly rather than hiding it under fresh paint and modern restorations. This 1969 Shelby GT500, currently listed on eBay, is being offered as exactly that kind of car: an honest, documented survivor with real use, real patina, and a story that hasn’t been erased.
Finished in Royal Maroon with a white interior, this GT500 is a genuine Drag Pack car equipped from new with the 428 Super Cobra Jet, C6 automatic transmission, and 3.91 Traction-Lok rear axle. According to the seller, it shows 68,000 miles and remains largely original, including approximately 95 percent of its factory lacquer paint. As expected with original lacquer, there is age-related checking and a few chips, along with small, older touch-ups that are not immediately obvious. Rather than detracting, that character is presented as one of the car’s biggest strengths.
Mechanically, the original numbers-matching 428 SCJ engine and C6 transmission were professionally rebuilt and reinstalled after a year-long restoration effort, with roughly 500 miles since completion. The seller notes strong oil pressure, stable temperatures, and confident driving behavior, whether on short trips or longer cruises. All gauges, lights, heater, and accessories are reported to work, with the exception of the original AM/FM radio, which powers on but will need service to play properly.
The interior was refreshed using correct, high-quality replacement components after the original materials had deteriorated with age. This work was done to improve safety, comfort, and usability while keeping the appearance factory-correct. During that process, the solid floor pans—still showing original paint—were treated with Dynamat. Original glass was removed and reinstalled during headliner work, with no rust found in the window channels.
Underneath, the car is described as solid and well-preserved, with good floors and frame rails. Steering and suspension are said to feel tight and stable, and the transmission shifts cleanly. The car is not treated as a static display piece; it is driven regularly, warmed fully, and stored indoors.
What truly sets this Shelby apart is its documentation and provenance. It was sold new by Gotham Ford of New York City, one of Carroll Shelby’s trusted high-performance dealers. The car is supported by an Elite Marti Report, ownership history, and period documentation, and it has even been featured in a Motorcraft magazine article.
This GT500 isn’t about perfection—it’s about authenticity. Would you keep a survivor like this exactly as it is, or would you be tempted to restore away the history?
Nice to see an original Shelby!!
Not molested at all!!
Even in not-perfect, not-pristine condition, these are highly desired, high dollar cars.
The near twin, but with black interior, GT350 to this is being auctioned on BAT right now. The GT350 has been restored though, and as nice as it is, there’s just something about a mostly unmolested car, so I really appreciate this GT500. Of course the 428 doesn’t hurt either. Just needs a set of Polyglas tires.
Sweet, and a fair price.
I never cared for these – overweight,with a lot of
tacky add-ons.HUGE step backwards from the ’68’s.
Nice original and love the Maroon with white interior.
At $118,000.00 so far. I worked in a body shop back then and don’t think that lacquer was used anymore by OEM’s. I;m pretty sure and that this one would be painted in a single stage enamel.
Think you’re right about the paint, a quick Google search indicates that Ford quit using lacquer around 1940 actually, much earlier than other manufacturers.
I’m a Ford guy. (There’s no known cure). However, this year of Shelby in particular, is ugly. It hurts to say it… but there it is.
what do you think about the 71 Mach 1? Looks like ford used this car’s styling on it…
I actually Love the 71-73 Mach 1 Mustang, preferably the 71 and 72,s mainly due to the front grille and stripe package, i prefer these models over the earlier model Mustangs, even tho growing up Dad had a few 65-66 Fastbacks, the 71 Boss 351 probably favorite Mustang, with a 71 Mach 1 with a 429 SCJ a close second. The 71-73 models never get the love earlier models get, i personally love em, handle better than the earlier models, and more room for Big Blocks !
GT 350 is so much prettier.
It’s basically the same car but with a 351 W, if you talking about the same model year.
Lovely looking car. I’ve always loved Shelby Mustang.
STARTS at US $118,000.00
Take another look, the Buy It Now is that price, or make a offer. This is not a auction.
I like the 1970.
What’s the difference ? Many 69 leftovers were just rebranded as 1970 models, i didn’t know there were any differences.
black hood stripes & front spoiler
I would like to define largely original , but yes !! I would leave it alone .
The best color they ever offered on these ’69’s. Knudsen used these as an intro to the 1971 Mustang.
Agree TOTALLY :-)
Lottery is up to 200 million, Going out for a ticket :-)
Like many Car Enthusiasts, I’ve heard of the Shelby Mustang. I’ve been interested in this year for the Shelby Mustang, and if I had someone who shared the same interest in cars, I’d love to buy it. If only I could afford it. $118k is a little out of my price range, particularly given the patina it wears. As long as it runs and drives safely and everything is solid, with nothing to compromise the safety of the car, I’d be willing to pay 1/2 the asking price.
I saw a couple of 69 gt350’s on ebay last year for around 60/70k so keep an eye out, you may get lucky.
anybody know the price difference between this and a basic 6 cylinder Mustang in 1969? Guessing only a few thousand.