Six-Figure Build: 1967 Shelby GT350 Tribute

One of the traps with project builds is that costs can sometimes spiral out of control as the builder seeks perfection. Such is the case with this 1967 Ford Mustang Fastback. The seller aimed to create a fitting tribute to the legendary Shelby GT350, and their eye for detail is admirable. However, the process cost them a cool $150,000, and the car has only clocked around 370 miles since they finally packed away the tools. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting the Mustang listed here on eBay in Riverton, Utah. The solitary bid of $65,000 is below the reserve, although the listing statistics suggest the action may intensify in the coming days.

The seller followed a sensible path when creating this classic. They sourced a rust-free ’67 GT Fastback from Arizona, massaging the panels before adding the iconic Shelby fiberglass hood, trunk lid, and functional scoops. They then applied a pearl-based Orange that really pops. The finishing touches included the correct Shelby badges and a set of American Racing Torq Thrust wheels. The close-up shots reveal no evidence of orange peel or other imperfections. The paint is as flat as the seller claims, and the exterior shines like a mirror. The contrasting White stripes are sharp, while the trim and glass appear perfect. The seller states that this Mustang has only covered around 370 miles since they completed the build, and the lack of cosmetic imperfections supports that claim.

If this Mustang were a genuine GT350, lifting the hood would reveal an upgraded version of the 289ci K-Code V8. It delivered 306hp and 329 ft/lbs of torque, making the GT350 a pretty potent package. However, this Mustang could show a genuine “350” a clean set of heels. The seller equipped it with a 351ci motor from a 1969 Mach 1. However, it wasn’t a case of bolting in the V8 and hoping for the best. They dispatched the 351 to a professional for a complete rebuild that lightened their wallet by a cool $20,000! The upgraded powerplant is teamed with a four-speed Top Loader transmission, power steering, and power front disc brakes. Was the engine investment justified? The seller claims a power output of 450hp, so I think the answer to that question is a resounding “yes!” The engine exhales through headers and a custom 3″ exhaust, with the seller stating that the V8 roars like a lion, a claim I find easy to believe. The lack of action since the build ended means the winning bidder will effectively be breaking-in this turnkey classic.

One aspect of this classic that didn’t receive a complete makeover is its interior. Trimmed in Parchment vinyl, the seller added a console with a Shelby lidded bin, as well as a rollbar with the iconic shoulder harnesses. Close inspection reveals a couple of small imperfections, but the fact that this Mustang has accumulated a selection of show silverware since its unveiling suggests there are no major problems. A Hurst shifter emerges through the console housing some auxiliary gauges, the driver confronts a factory tachometer, while the interior also features a tilt-away wheel and an AM radio.

I admire enthusiasts who throw caution to the wind, creating the classic of their dreams with little consideration of the final cost. That is the story behind this 1967 Ford Shelby GT350 Tribute. That the seller is forced to part with this car after finally reaching their goal due to an impending divorce must be a bitter pill to swallow. Under different circumstances, I suspect this Ford would have remained safely parked in their garage for many decades. Placing a value on the vehicle is virtually impossible because cars of this caliber write their own rules. What would you be prepared to pay for this stunning Shelby GT350 Tribute?