This is what happened back in the 1960’s when Ford asked the top racing car driver in America to add a few special touches to its already very special Mustang. The car’s sporty image has proved a runaway success with American boy racers since its launch in 1964.

With a lengthened hood, chrome grille and bumpers, and the famous wild horse insignia, this American classic dripped with style. Appearances in the James Bond movies Thunderball and Goldfinger helped to ensure the car’s legendary status.
 
In 1965, Ford teamed up with Carroll Shelby, American racing hero and head of Shelby American cars, to produce the Shelby Mustang GT 350. On the surface it looked similar to a regular Mustang but lurking under the bonnet was Ford’s 4,738cc small-block V8 engine, giving it a top speed of about 150 mph, while the front suspension was also modified to give it more of a neutral ride.

The combination of Ford’s classic design and Shelby’s racing legacy made this Mustang one of the original boy racer dream cars.

PERFORMANCE
Text & Driver: Matt Treadwell
Co-driver: Alistair Robertson
Max speed: 116 mph
0-60: 5ish secs
Max power: 300 bhp
Miles per gallon: You don’t want to know
Engine capacity: 5500 cc
Cost when new: $3500
Total produced: 935
Modifications: A self–stopping engine when wet and/or dark. Comatose co-pilot!