Mustang enthusiasts, get ready to rev your engines! In the world of classic cars, few brands command the same level of admiration and fascination as the Ford Mustang. With its iconic design and powerful performance, the Mustang has become a symbol of American automotive excellence. In this article, we’ll take a thrilling ride through history as we uncover the 18 rarest Mustang models ever released. From limited editions to one-of-a-kind prototypes, these elusive gems have left an indelible mark on automotive history.
Shelby GT500 Super Snake (1967)
Image Editorial Credit: alan farrow / Flickr
The GT500 Super Snake is one of the rarest Mustangs ever produced, with only one built for public sale. It featured a modified 7.0L V8 engine producing over 520 horsepower, making it an absolute powerhouse on the road.
Boss 429 (1969-1970)
Image Editorial Credit: Gestalt Imagery / Shutterstock
The Boss 429 was built to homologate the engine for NASCAR racing, resulting in only 1,359 units produced over two years. Its massive 429 cubic inch V8 engine and unique styling cues make it highly coveted by collectors.
Shelby GT350R (1965)
Image Editorial Credit: Sin Amigos / Flickr
The GT350R was a purpose-built race car, with only 34 units produced. It featured lightweight components, upgraded suspension, and a high-performance engine, making it a dominant force on the track during its time.
Mustang Mach 1 Twister Special (1970)
Image Editorial Credit: Alden Jewell / Flickr
This limited-edition model was only available in the Kansas City sales district and featured unique decals and trim. With only 96 units produced, it’s highly sought after by collectors looking for rare Mustang variants.
Shelby GT350H (1966)
Image Editorial Credit: Rab Lawrence / Flickr
Produced exclusively for the Hertz rental car company, the GT350H was a high-performance Mustang available for rent. With only 1,000 units made, it’s become a prized collector’s item due to its unique history and limited availability.
Mustang Bullitt (2001)
Image Editorial Credit: Chad Horwedel / Flickr
Released to commemorate the 1968 Mustang driven by Steve McQueen in the movie “Bullitt,” this special edition Mustang featured performance upgrades and unique styling cues. With just 5,582 units produced, it’s a rare find for enthusiasts of both Mustangs and classic cinema.
Shelby GT500KR (2008)
Image Editorial Credit: Sicnag / Wikimedia Commons
The “KR” stands for “King of the Road,” and with only 1,011 units produced, this Mustang lives up to its name. Featuring a supercharged V8 engine and aggressive styling, it’s a highly desirable model among collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Mustang Cobra R (2000)
Image Editorial Credit: RandomGamer31 / Flickr
Built for the track, the Cobra R was a stripped-down, high-performance Mustang with a focus on speed and handling. With only 300 units produced, it’s a rare gem for those seeking a no-compromise driving experience.
Mustang Mach 1 Super Cobra Jet (1971)
Image Editorial Credit: Cars Down Under / Flickr
Equipped with a powerful 7.0L V8 engine, the Mach 1 Super Cobra Jet was a high-performance variant of the classic Mustang. With only 531 units produced, it’s a rare sight on the roads today and highly sought after by collectors.
Shelby GT350 Convertible (1968)
Image Editorial Credit: artistmac / Flickr
Convertible versions of the GT350 are rare, with only 404 produced in 1968. Known for their open-air driving experience and Shelby performance, these models are highly desirable among collectors and enthusiasts.
Mustang GT/CS “California Special” (1968)
Image Editorial Credit: Nick Ares / Flickr
Produced in limited numbers for the California market, the GT/CS featured unique styling elements and a sense of exclusivity. With only 4,118 units produced, it’s a rare find for collectors seeking a piece of Mustang history.
Shelby GT500KR Convertible (1968)
Image Editorial Credit: Chad Horwedel / Flickr
The convertible version of the GT500KR is even rarer than its coupe counterpart, with only 318 units produced. Featuring Shelby performance and open-air driving enjoyment, it’s a highly desirable model for collectors.
Mustang SVO (1984-1986)
Image Editorial Credit: Sicnag / Wikimedia Commons
The SVO (Special Vehicle Operations) Mustang was a turbocharged, performance-oriented model designed to compete with European sports cars. With only 9,835 units produced over three years, it’s a rare find for enthusiasts of turbocharged Mustangs.
Shelby GT500 “Eleanor” (1967)
Image Editorial Credit: Juanyo / Wikimedia Commons
Made famous by the movie “Gone in 60 Seconds,” the Eleanor Mustang is a highly modified version of the classic GT500. With only a handful of authentic replicas produced, it’s one of the rarest and most iconic Mustangs ever built.
Shelby GT500KR “King of the Road” (1968)
Image Editorial Credit: Cars Down Under / Flickr
Building on the success of the original GT500KR, this model featured improved performance and handling. With only 1,053 units produced, it’s a rare variant of the iconic GT500 and highly sought after by collectors.
Shelby GT350 “Paxton Prototype” (1965)
Image Editorial Credit: Gestalt Imagery / Shutterstock
This prototype GT350 was fitted with a Paxton supercharger, resulting in increased horsepower and performance. With only one prototype produced, it’s a unique piece of Mustang history and highly coveted by collectors.
Mustang Cobra Jet (1968)
Image Editorial Credit: Cars Down Under / Flickr
The Cobra Jet was a factory-built drag racing Mustang designed for straight-line speed. With only 50 units produced, it’s one of the rarest and most sought-after Mustang models among drag racing enthusiasts and collectors alike.
This article is originally appeared on Rarest.org
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