1965 saw the introduction of the 1965 Shelby Mustang GT350, which was based on the Mustang Fastback. This model captured the interest of automotive enthusiasts due to its striking appearance and performance. The GT350 boasted substantial suspension enhancements, which saw the replacement of stock components with high-performance racing parts.
The most significant improvements to the Shelby GT350 were found under the hood. Shelby underwent extensive modifications to the standard Mustang’s Hi-Po 289 cubic-inch V-8 engine, which already boasted an impressive 271 horsepower output.
Each GT350 engine went through alterations, including the replacement of the original cast-iron intake with a Cobra Hi-Rise manifold. Furthermore, a Holley four-barrel 715-cfm carburetor and lightweight tubular Tri-Y exhaust headers were incorporated. To prevent overheating, a larger radiator from the Ford Galaxy 500 was installed in the GT350.
With a power output of 306 horsepower at 6,000 rpm, the 1965 Shelby GT350 could achieve a top speed of 138 mph and accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 6.6 seconds. Power was transmitted through a Borg-Warner T-10 four-speed gearbox.
While navigating regular traffic was a challenge, the GT350 excelled on the racetrack, significantly bolstering the Mustang’s reputation. A total of 562 GT350s were produced in 1965, which included 34 GT350R competition models. These 1965 Shelby GT350s have garnered near-mythical status and are highly coveted by collectors around the globe.
Image Source: Gestalt Imagery / Shutterstock
