1969 Ford Shelby Mustang GT500 Convertible 4-Speed

This 1969 Shelby GT500 Convertible represents one of the rarest and most desirable combinations of the Shelby Mustang lineage. One of only 245 GT500 convertibles produced for the model year, this example is believed to be one of just two factory-equipped in Grabber Green with black bucket seats and a four-speed manual transmission. Built on April 1, 1969, and delivered new through Ogden Ford in Utah, it combines exceptional rarity, documented history, and legendary Cobra Jet performance in a package that stands among the most collectible Shelby Mustangs ever produced.

The restoration included rebuilding the drivetrain, refinishing the exterior, replacing the convertible top, and restoring the interior, resulting in a presentation that honors both its originality and significance.

Finished in factory-correct Grabber Green with white side stripes, the body showcases the distinctive styling that set Shelby Mustangs apart from standard production models. Shelby-specific fiberglass body panels include the hood, front fenders, and trunk lid, while the aggressive hood features five NACA-style ducts and quick-release hood latches. Additional exterior details include a power-operated white convertible top, Lucas fog lights, color-keyed racing mirrors, quarter-panel scoops, an integrated rear spoiler, chrome bumpers, and rectangular center-exit exhaust outlets. The soft top and windshield were replaced during the restoration, and accompanying records document the extensive refinishing work.

The car rides on Shelby five-spoke 15-inch wheels wrapped in BFGoodrich Radial T/A tires, giving it the unmistakable stance expected from a late-sixties performance icon. Equipped with the Competition Suspension package, Koni shocks are fitted at all four corners, while power steering and power-assisted front disc brakes enhance drivability. During the restoration, numerous suspension and braking components were replaced, including control arms, bushings, ball joints, axle bearings, and the brake booster.

Inside, the cabin features black vinyl upholstery covering the front bucket seats and rear bench, complemented by matching Cobra-logo floor mats. Woodgrain trim accents the dashboard and door panels, while a Shelby-specific center console incorporates a storage compartment, padded armrest, and toggle switches for the dome and driving lights. A factory-style roll bar further reinforces the car’s performance-oriented character while remaining one of the defining features of Shelby convertibles from this era.

The woodgrain steering wheel sits ahead of a driver-focused instrument cluster featuring an 8,000-rpm tachometer, 140-mph speedometer, and gauges for fuel level and coolant temperature. Additional oil pressure and amperage gauges are angled toward the driver from the center console, while a dashboard-mounted clock completes the period-correct presentation. The odometer shows approximately 82,000 miles.

Power comes from the legendary 428ci Cobra Jet V8, rebuilt by Cobra Automotive as part of the restoration. Equipped with a Ram Air induction system, rebuilt four-barrel carburetor, rebuilt distributor, and ribbed aluminum valve covers, the engine delivers the immense torque and effortless performance that made the Cobra Jet one of Ford’s most respected powerplants. Factory output was rated at 335 horsepower and 440 lb-ft of torque, though the Cobra Jet’s real-world performance often exceeded its published figures. Long-tube headers feed into a dual exhaust system featuring an H-pipe, dual resonators, and a transverse-mounted muffler, producing the unmistakable sound of big-block Shelby performance.

Power is transferred to the rear wheels through a Centerforce dual-friction clutch, a rebuilt close-ratio Toploader four-speed manual transmission, and a Traction-Lok 9-inch rear axle equipped with 3.50 gearing. The combination delivers the engaging, driver-focused experience that has made four-speed Shelby convertibles some of the most sought-after American performance cars of the era.

Accompanied by extensive documentation including restoration records, historical ownership documents, copies of the original Shelby Automotive invoice and order form, a reproduction window sticker, a Deluxe Marti Report, and a Shelby shop manual supplement, this 1969 Shelby GT500 Convertible presents an extraordinary opportunity to acquire one of the rarest and best-documented Shelby Mustangs available. Combining exceptional rarity, factory four-speed Cobra Jet performance, and one of the most striking color combinations ever offered by Shelby, it represents a centerpiece-level collectible that appeals equally to serious enthusiasts and discerning collectors.