1968 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 KR Fastback
Ford’s most powerful factory Mustang variant arrived in spring 1968 with the introduction of the 428 Cobra Jet, replacing the earlier 428 Police Interceptor used in previous GT500 models. The “King of the Road” designation was adopted by Carroll Shelby to emphasize the new engine’s performance and to clearly separate the KR from earlier big-block Shelbys.
Distinctive fiberglass bodywork included a functional ram-air hood with prominent louvers and dual scoops feeding an under-hood plenum chamber. At the rear, sequential-style taillights sourced from the 1965 Ford Thunderbird and a chrome-trimmed grille with rectangular driving lights provided clear visual differentiation from standard Mustangs.
Ford’s 428-cubic-inch Cobra Jet incorporated 427-based low-riser cylinder heads, a Holley 735-CFM carburetor, and a hydraulic camshaft similar to the 390 GT profile. Output was conservatively rated at 335 horsepower for insurance purposes, though actual output was widely believed to be closer to 400 horsepower, with torque peaking at 440 pound-feet at 3,400 RPM.
Transmission options included a Top Loader four-speed manual or a C6 three-speed automatic. The massive torque output made either combination exceptionally strong in real-world driving.
Wood-print dashboard trim, deluxe bucket seats, and a wood-rimmed steering wheel enhanced interior accommodations. The 108-inch wheelbase platform received front disc brakes, staggered rear shock absorbers to control axle windup, and reinforced suspension mounting points to handle the Cobra Jet’s output.
Total production reached 1,571 units, comprising 1,053 fastbacks and 518 convertibles, before the single-year GT500 KR model run concluded.
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