The 1968 Shelby GT350 Convertible is a true masterpiece of automotive engineering and design. As part of the legendary Shelby Mustang series, the 1968 GT350 Convertible offers a blend of performance, style, and rarity that few other cars can match. Whether you’re a classic car enthusiast or a potential buyer, understanding the key features of this iconic vehicle will help you appreciate why it’s so highly regarded in the muscle car world. At Revology Cars, we proudly showcase the timeless appeal of such legendary cars, ensuring that every vehicle we offer meets the highest standards of authenticity and performance.
Engine and Performance
One of the standout features of the 1968 Shelby GT350 Convertible is its powertrain. This muscle car is equipped with a 289 cubic-inch V8 engine, a powerhouse that provides impressive horsepower and torque for thrilling acceleration and speed.
- Horsepower: The engine produces around 306 horsepower, a remarkable figure for its time, allowing the GT350 to deliver exhilarating performance on both the road and the track.
- Transmission Options: The 1968 model offered two transmission choices: a 4-speed manual and an automatic transmission. The manual transmission option gave driving enthusiasts more control and a truly engaging experience.
- Suspension and Handling: The GT350’s suspension system was specially designed to handle high-performance driving. With its upgraded suspension components and rear axle ratio, this vehicle offered a smooth ride and exceptional handling, making it as capable on winding roads as it was on the straightaways.
At Revology Cars, we understand how important performance is to the overall driving experience, and this is exactly why we focus on offering cars that deliver like the 1968 Shelby GT350 Convertible.
Exterior Design
The exterior design of the 1968 Shelby GT350 Convertible is a blend of sleek lines and aggressive muscle car presence.
- Body Style: The GT350 Convertible featured a unique convertible top, allowing the driver to enjoy open-air driving while still maintaining the car’s powerful stance and aesthetic.
- Distinctive Shelby Modifications: Shelby’s signature modifications on the car included a fiberglass hood, front grille, and racing stripes that were designed to make the car stand out from other muscle cars of the era. These features gave the car a performance-focused look and reinforced its status as a true Shelby creation.
- Color Options: The 1968 Shelby GT350 Convertible came in a range of bold colors, including iconic shades like Wimbledon White, Guardsman Blue, and Raven Black. The combination of aggressive design and striking colors made this car a visual masterpiece.
The design of the 1968 Shelby GT350 Convertible, combined with its performance capabilities, makes it one of the most desired cars among collectors. At Revology Cars, we pride ourselves on preserving the heritage and design excellence of such classic vehicles.
Interior and Comfort
Inside, the 1968 Shelby GT350 Convertible was crafted to provide both performance-oriented functionality and comfort.
- Seats and Upholstery: The car featured high-quality bucket seats with distinctive upholstery, often in Black or White vinyl, ensuring that drivers and passengers could experience both style and comfort.
- Dashboard and Controls: The dashboard was designed with performance in mind, featuring easy-to-read gauges and controls that placed everything the driver needed at their fingertips. Shelby-specific touches included special badging and a well-crafted steering wheel, reflecting the brand’s commitment to quality.
- Convertible Top: The convertible top mechanism was simple yet effective, allowing drivers to easily open or close the roof as needed. The top was crafted from durable materials, ensuring both functionality and style.
At Revology Cars, we ensure that the interior of each car is restored and maintained to match the original specifications, preserving the authenticity and comfort of these classic vehicles.
Shelby-Specific Features
As a Shelby Mustang, the 1968 GT350 Convertible came with unique modifications and features that set it apart from other Mustangs.
- Shelby Modifications: In addition to the performance enhancements, Shelby added several distinctive touches to the GT350. This included special badges, unique exhaust systems, and custom suspension components that elevated the car’s overall performance and style.
- Limited Production: The 1968 Shelby GT350 Convertible was produced in limited numbers, making it one of the rarer models in the Shelby Mustang lineup. This scarcity only adds to its desirability among collectors.
- Special Equipment Package: Shelby offered a performance package that included a special exhaust system, high-performance brakes, and reinforced suspension. These upgrades helped the GT350 stand out as a true muscle car designed for high performance.
The uniqueness of the Shelby GT350 Convertible’s features makes it a standout in the muscle car world, and at Revology Cars, we make sure each of our vehicles maintains its original Shelby charm.
Safety Features
While muscle cars like the Shelby GT350 Convertible were primarily built for performance, they also included several key safety features that were advanced for their time.
- Safety Glass: The car was equipped with shatter-resistant safety glass to ensure the protection of the driver and passengers.
- Seatbelts: The GT350 Convertible featured basic seat belt restraints, a standard feature for vehicles of that era.
- Structural Integrity: The construction of the car was solid, with a strong frame and reinforced body to handle the high performance that the car was designed for.
At Revology Cars, we ensure that each vehicle not only meets modern safety standards but also preserves the classic essence that makes these cars iconic.
Market Appeal and Value
The 1968 Shelby GT350 Convertible remains a highly sought-after classic car, with its value continuing to appreciate over time.
- Collector Value: Due to its limited production and iconic status, the 1968 Shelby GT350 Convertible is considered a collector’s dream. Classic car collectors and enthusiasts continue to seek out these vehicles for their rare combination of style, performance, and history.
- Appreciation Over Time: The rarity of the 1968 model, combined with its iconic design and high-performance features, makes it a valuable investment for those interested in classic cars. Prices for well-maintained examples have steadily increased, proving that the Shelby GT350 Convertible remains a top contender in the market.
At Revology Cars, we understand the investment potential of these rare vehicles, and we offer carefully restored cars that meet the highest standards of quality and value.
Conclusion
The 1968 Shelby GT350 Convertible stands as a true icon in the world of muscle cars, offering a rare blend of raw performance, stylish design, and Shelby-specific features that make it a standout in any collection. From its powerful 289 V8 engine to its distinct exterior modifications and limited production numbers, this car continues to captivate automotive enthusiasts and collectors alike. Whether you’re looking for a thrilling driving experience or a valuable investment, the 1968 Shelby GT350 Convertible delivers on all fronts. At Revology Cars, we understand the importance of preserving these classic cars, and we are committed to offering meticulously restored models that maintain the timeless appeal and performance of this legendary vehicle.
FAQs
How many 1968 Shelby GT350 Convertibles were produced?
Only a limited number of 1968 Shelby GT350 Convertibles were produced, making them one of the rarest models in the Shelby lineup.
What engine comes in the 1968 Shelby GT350 Convertible?
The 1968 Shelby GT350 Convertible is powered by a 289 cubic-inch V8 engine that produces approximately 306 horsepower.
What are the available color options for the 1968 Shelby GT350 Convertible?
The 1968 model was available in a range of colors, including Wimbledon White, Guardsman Blue, and Raven Black.
What is the market value of a 1968 Shelby GT350 Convertible?
The value of a 1968 Shelby GT350 Convertible depends on factors such as its condition, originality, mileage, and provenance. Well-maintained, original examples tend to be more desirable among collectors, while restored or modified versions may have varying values based on their quality and authenticity.
Are there modern versions of the 1968 Shelby GT350 Convertible?
While modern versions of the Shelby GT350 exist, the 1968 Shelby GT350 Convertible remains a unique classic with a distinct place in automotive history, and modern versions often don’t replicate the same features and character.
