Shelby GT500KR
The ultimate 1960s Mustang, crowned the King of the Road.
- Power
- 335 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 5.4 s
- Top speed
- 140 mph
- Est. value
- $160k–$330k
About the Shelby GT500KR
Introduced mid-way through the 1968 model year, the GT500KR (King of the Road) was the definitive evolution of Carroll Shelby's vision for the Mustang. It replaced the standard GT500's Police Interceptor engine with the legendary 428 Cobra Jet V8, featuring high-flow cylinder heads and a ram-air induction system. While officially rated at 335 hp to appease insurance companies, actual output was widely understood to exceed 400 hp. The KR is distinguished by its unique fiberglass hood with twin forward-facing scoops, horizontal sequential tail lights borrowed from the 1965 Thunderbird, and Lucas fog lights integrated into the grille.
Shelby GT500KR specs
The Shelby GT500KR produces 335 bhp (250 kW) and 597 Nm (440 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 5.4 seconds and has a top speed of 140 mph (225 km/h).
| Make | Shelby |
|---|---|
| Model | GT500KR |
| Trim | 428 V8 |
| Years | 1968 |
| Type | Muscle |
| Body style | Coupé |
| Country | United States |
| Production | About 1,571 built |
| Original price | About $4,500 when new |
| Engine | 7.0-litre 428 Cobra Jet V8 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 7,014 cc (7.0 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 335 bhp (250 kW) at 5,200 rpm |
| Torque | 597 Nm (440 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 5.4 s |
| Top speed | 140 mph (225 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,620 kg (3,571 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 207 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Shelby GT500KR worth?
A typical Shelby GT500KR is estimated to be worth $160,000 – $330,000 (about £119,000 – £246,000).
Its original price when new was about $4,500.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Shelby GT500KR rarity in CarSpot
The Shelby GT500KR is a Unicorn card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 100 out of 100. The rarest tier: hypercars, one-offs and cars built in tiny numbers, typically fewer than about 500. A Unicorn card is worth 320 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Shelby GT500KR fun facts
- Carroll Shelby trademarked the 'King of the Road' name after hearing that Chevrolet was planning to use it for a new Corvette variant.
- The 428 Cobra Jet engine was so powerful that Ford deliberately underrated its horsepower to help owners avoid massive insurance premiums.
- The GT500KR featured a functional ram-air system where the hood scoops fed air directly into a special air cleaner assembly.
