Some cars carry more than horsepower, they carry history. This 1969 Shelby Mustang GT500 Fastback is one of those rare machines. With its Candyapple Red finish and Cobra Jet heart, it’s a time capsule wrapped in fiberglass and vinyl. The 1969 Shelby Mustang GT500 Fastback has been in the same family for 37 years, and it shows the kind of care only long-term ownership can deliver.
The body wears its Candyapple Red paint with pride. Shelby side stripes run along the flanks, while the fiberglass nose and vented hood add aggression. NACA-style inlets, fog lights, and quarter panel vents give it a race-ready look. Dual square exhaust outlets and a trunk lid spoiler complete the rear. The hood and lower body were repainted in 1991, preserving its original character.
Cobra Jet Power and Performance
Under the hood sits a 428ci Cobra Jet V8, factory-rated at 335 horsepower and 440 lb-ft of torque. It features a four-barrel carburetor, ram-air intake, and finned valve covers. Between 1990 and 1991, the engine was rebuilt with .030″-over forged pistons, Speed-Pro rings, ARP hardware, and a Lunati camshaft. Power flows through a three-speed C6 automatic transmission and a 3.50 Traction-Lok rear differential.
Interior Comfort and Shelby Features
Inside, black vinyl bucket seats and a Sport Deck fold-down rear seat offer classic Mustang comfort. Woodgrain trim, a Shelby-specific center console, and a tilt-away steering wheel add flair. The dashboard houses a clock, AM radio, and auxiliary gauges for oil pressure and amperage. A roll bar adds safety and style. The odometer shows 48k miles, with 5k added under current ownership.
Wheels, Brakes, and Driving Feel
Shelby 15″ wheels wrapped in Goodyear Eagle tires give it grip and stance. Power-assisted steering makes it easy to handle, while front disc brakes and rear drums provide stopping power. The GT500 feels planted and responsive, even decades after its debut.
Summary
This 1969 Shelby Mustang GT500 Fastback isn’t just a restored classic, it’s a family heirloom with muscle. From its Cobra Jet engine to its Candyapple Red finish, it blends performance and legacy in one unforgettable package.
Disclaimer: Vehicle specifications and restoration details are based on available documentation and may vary.
