12 Most Valuable Shelby Cars in Existence

Shelby cars are legendary. They are symbols of speed, power, and American automotive ingenuity. Each model on this list has its own story, unique features, and incredible value. Let’s explore the most valuable Shelby cars in existence, detailing their history, features, and why they command such high prices today.

Shelby Daytona Coupe (1964)

The 1965 Shelby Daytona Coupe was designed to conquer the racing world. It features a sleek, aerodynamic body and a 289 cubic inch V8 engine. This car’s historical significance and rarity contribute to its value of approximately $8 million. Only six Daytona Coupes were ever produced, making it a true collector’s item. Its victories at international races cemented Shelby’s reputation as a top-tier car manufacturer.

Shelby Cobra 427 S/C (1965)

The Shelby Cobra 427 S/C, produced in 1965, is a rare gem in the automotive world. This car features a 427 cubic inch V8 engine, delivering a staggering 425 horsepower. Known for its incredible speed and power, the Cobra 427 S/C is valued at around $2.1 million. Only 31 of these models were built, making it one of the most sought-after Shelby cars. Its aggressive design and raw performance have made it a legend on and off the track.

Shelby Cobra 260 (1962)

The 1962 Shelby Cobra 260 is the car that started it all. It features a 260 cubic inch V8 engine, offering 260 horsepower. This car’s value is around $1.5 million due to its historical significance. Only 75 units were produced, making it highly collectible. The Cobra 260’s role in Shelby’s history makes it a cornerstone of the brand.

Shelby Cobra 289 (1964)

The 1964 Shelby Cobra 289 is a classic example of American muscle. It features a 289 cubic inch V8 engine, offering 271 horsepower. Valued at approximately $1.4 million, this model is celebrated for its racing success and iconic design. The Cobra 289 played a pivotal role in establishing Shelby’s reputation in the automotive industry. Its lightweight chassis and potent engine made it a formidable competitor on the track.

Shelby Cobra 427 Street (1965)

The Shelby Cobra 427 Street, produced in 1965, is an iconic muscle car. It features a 427 cubic inch V8 engine, producing 425 horsepower. Valued at around $1.3 million, this model is known for its raw power and classic design. Only 260 units were made, making it highly sought after by collectors. Its performance and aggressive styling set it apart from other muscle cars of its era.

Shelby Mustang GT350R (1965)

Introduced in 1965, the Shelby Mustang GT350R was built for racing. It features a high-revving 289 cubic inch V8 engine, delivering 306 horsepower. This car’s value is around $1 million due to its racing pedigree and limited production. Only 34 GT350Rs were made, making it a prized possession for collectors. Its performance upgrades over the standard GT350 made it a dominant force in motorsports.

Shelby GT500 Eleanor (1967)

The Shelby GT500 Eleanor gained fame from its appearance in the movie “Gone in 60 Seconds.” This 1967 model features a modified 428 cubic inch V8 engine, producing 400 horsepower. Valued at around $1 million, Eleanor is known for its iconic status and unique styling. It has become a cultural icon in the world of classic cars. Its custom features and Hollywood fame have only increased its desirability and value.

Shelby GT350 Fastback (1965)

The 1965 Shelby GT350 Fastback is a legendary muscle car. It features a 289 cubic inch V8 engine, delivering 306 horsepower. Valued at around $400,000, this model is known for its racing success and iconic design. Only 521 units were produced, adding to its exclusivity. The GT350 Fastback’s blend of performance and style has made it a classic.

Shelby Series 1 (1999)

The Shelby Series 1, introduced in 1999, was a modern take on the classic Shelby design. It features a 4.0-liter Oldsmobile Aurora V8 engine, delivering 320 horsepower. Valued at approximately $250,000, the Series 1 is known for its advanced engineering and limited production. Only 249 units were made, making it a rare collector’s item. This car represents Carroll Shelby’s vision of a modern sports car with cutting-edge technology.

Shelby GT500KR (1968)

The Shelby GT500KR, also known as the “King of the Road,” debuted in 1968. It boasts a 428 cubic inch Cobra Jet V8 engine, producing 335 horsepower. This model is valued at around $200,000, thanks to its powerful performance and limited production. The GT500KR is renowned for its distinctive styling and muscle car heritage. Its blend of luxury and performance set a new standard for American muscle cars.

Shelby GT350-H Hertz (1966)

The 1966 Shelby GT350-H, also known as the “Rent-A-Racer,” was a special model made for Hertz. It features a 289 cubic inch V8 engine, delivering 306 horsepower. This car is valued at approximately $200,000 due to its unique history and limited production. Only 1,001 units were made, with distinctive black and gold paint. The GT350-H remains a favorite among enthusiasts for its performance and rental car novelty.

Shelby GT500 Convertible (1968)

The 1968 Shelby GT500 Convertible is a rare and desirable model. It features a 428 cubic inch V8 engine, producing 335 horsepower. Valued at around $150,000, this convertible is celebrated for its style and performance. Only 402 units were produced, making it a rare find. Its combination of luxury and muscle made it a standout in the Shelby lineup.

This article originally appeared on Rarest.org.

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