February 21, 2004

By: David Murray
Website: http://www.1st-in-cars.com

Second Continuation Car Based on a Vintage Ford Mustang Introduced

Winning the hearts and right feet of everyone in attendance, Carroll Shelby unveiled the G.T.350SR at a press conference during SEMA 2003, in Las Vegas.

Manufactured for Shelby by Unique Performance and available through Shelby dealers nationwide, the car packs the latest technology into the muscular body of a 1965 Shelby G.T.350R. The continuation car, which is based on a vintage Ford Mustang, turned heads and won thunderous applause at the standing-room-only press conference.

The G.T.350SR was also the star of the Ford/Goodyear Racing SEMA reception. The response to the G.T.350SR at SEMA was overwhelming, said Douglas Hasty, President and CEO of Unique Performance. The strong demand from the media, general public and enthusiasts demonstrates the popularity of Shelby’s cars. Several of those who saw that car asked to immediately place an order.

The G.T.350SR is the second car in the continuation series. The first was the Shelby G.T.500E, which is similar in appearance to the car in the movie Gone In 60 Seconds. Each G.T.500E and G.T.350SR will receive a Shelby VIN and be included in the next Shelby American World Registry. Ford’s Mustang was an instant success when introduced in 1964. When Ford Motor Company asked Carroll Shelby to make the Mustangs a race winner, he created the G.T.350, including a special R version for the Sports Car Club of America B/Production road racing class.

The cars had upgraded motors, strengthened chassis, enhanced cooling, revised suspensions, high performance tires and race prepared brakes. The rear window was replaced with a vented plexiglass unit and the rear seat deleted. The 306 HP G.T.350 weighed 2,790 pounds, while the R model was a svelte 2,550 pounds.

Shelby Unveils G.T.350SR Continuation Car at SEMA 2003. The G.T.350SR is an even faster, better handling and more comfortable Shelby for the 21st century, added Hasty. Following Shelby American’s production 1965 program, we’ll transform first generation Ford Mustangs into the ultimate pony car.

Production will begin in early 2004 and the first production Shelby G.T.350SR will be offered at the 2004 Barrett-Jackson Auction in Scottsdale next January. The 1965 prototype features the optional rear 1966 style rear windows, Total Control independent coil over rear suspension, Plexiglas rear window and 475 HP engine. Standard equipment on the G.T.350SR includes a 410HP motor with Quaker State lubricants, four wheel Baer disc brakes, Total Control independent front suspension with rack & pinion, road racing oil pan, Griffin radiator, Old Air Products air conditioning system and JBA header.

Base price is estimated at US$93,000. Unique Performance will build the G.T.350SR at its North Texas factory. The Shelby vehicles are available through authorized Shelby dealers nationwide. A list of authorized dealers is available via the Internet. Carroll Shelby Automobiles is a wholly owned subsidiary of Carroll Shelby International.

About The Author:

David Murray is a successful author and regular contributor to http://www.1st-in-cars.com.  Great car accessories and parts plus financing, insurance and leasing tips.