Following up on the inaugural big-block Shelby GT500 Fastbacks of 1967, the 428 Cobra Jet V-8 engine upped the ante for the high-end, Mustang-based supercars beginning in 1968. The Cobra Jet, popularly known simply as the “CJ,” was originally developed by Tasca Ford at the suggestion of Hot Rod Magazine Editor Eric Dahlquist. Highlights included a pair of 427 low-riser cylinder heads, a 735 CFM Holley 4-barrel carburetor and internal improvements courtesy of Ford’s massive parts inventory. Generating immense torque and an underrated 335 HP, the 428 Cobra Jet developed a fearsome reputation on the street and strip and powered a number of Ford performance cars, including the increasingly upscale GT500, from 1969 through 1970. Shelby’s GT500 always carried a unique identity, and for 1969 it featured a longer fiberglass front end, unique “hoop” grille, updated tail lights and revised exhaust outlets, plus an aggressive hood with no less than five functional NACA-style air scoops. Front and rear air scoops ducted cool air to the brakes, and inside a roll bar, inertia-reel racing harnesses, luxurious amenities and special trim maintained the performance-oriented, limited-production character of the GT500. The 1969 GT500 is quite rare with only 1,157 fastbacks produced, according to records from the Shelby American Automobile Club. Rarer still, this 1969 Shelby GT500 is one of 132 produced with its Black Jade exterior finish and white Clarion interior. Power is provided by the mighty 428/355 HP Cobra Jet V-8 engine equipped with a Holley 735 CFM carburetor atop a cast-iron intake manifold. Power delivery is via a 4-speed close-ratio manual transmission and 3.50-ratio Traction-Lok rear axle, with the drive enhanced by power steering and power front disc brakes. Other choice features include a Sport Deck folding rear seat, Deluxe seat belts, the Visibility Group, an AM/FM radio, a Shelby center console, driver’s side remote mirror, oil-pressure and ammeter gauges, and MagStar 15x7 wheels wearing Goodyear Polyglas GT tires. Documents include a build sheet, invoice, Deluxe Marti Report, original sales documents and an owner’s manual.
