Uncovering the Secrets of a Legendary 1965 Shelby GT350: One-Off Supercharged Gem

The first-generation Ford Mustang, introduced in April 1964, was an instant hit. Just a few months later, Carroll Shelby gave this popular pony car a high-performance twist, resulting in the GT350. The 1965 GT350 isn't just any Mustang; it's the rarest of the breed, with only 572 units manufactured that year. These cars were meticulously crafted for the track, making them a desirable and collectible piece of automotive history.

Among the 572 units, 514 were standard street models, with a handful used as PR vehicles or company cars. A select few—34 to be precise—were factory Competition race cars, and these are among the most sought-after Shelbys ever. However, there’s an exclusive club within this already rare breed: the remaining 24 GT350s, which include various prototypes and test rigs. Most notably among them is a unique prototype equipped with a Paxton supercharger, commissioned by Shelby himself.

This supercharged GT350 wasn't just an experiment. It was one of two cars Shelby had equipped with Paxton superchargers, though only one retained this forced induction after testing. The result was an increase in output from 306 to a staggering 390 horsepower from the 289-cubic-inch K-Code V8 engine. This makes it a remarkable example of Shelby's quest for more power and performance.

Interestingly, the supercharged GT350 you see here had a colorful history. Used in iconic BF Goodrich Comp T/A advertisements, it eventually found its way to a Michigan dealer. It changed hands a few times, eventually getting separated from its original engine. Fate had other plans, though, as the original V8 was later reunited with the car, restoring its one-off legacy.

What’s even more astonishing is that this exceptional pony has survived nearly six decades. It still boasts its original paint, looking pristine as ever. The car’s rarity and condition were affirmed when it was auctioned off in 2020 for a massive $800,000. Given the current market, it’s not a stretch to say it could now fetch a seven-figure sum.

The one-off GT350 isn’t alone in its supercharged glory. Shelby offered the Paxton supercharger option in 1966 and 1967, producing 11 units in '66 and 35 units in '67. These cars, though not as rare as the singular 1965 model, remain incredibly special. Seeing all three model years—1965, 1966, and 1967—parked side by side is a rare visual treat.

Credit for this visual feast goes to YouTube’s “DezzysSpeedShop,” which provided a peek into this rare gathering. With such a storied history and unique features, the 1965 Shelby GT350 with its one-off Paxton supercharger stands as a testament to Shelby's relentless pursuit of automotive excellence.