The 1967 Shelby GT500 Super Snake was so rare most enthusiasts never see oneThe 1967 Shelby GT500 Super Snake is a legendary vehicle in the automotive world, renowned not only for its performance but also for its extreme rarity. With only a handful produced, most enthusiasts will never have the chance to see this iconic muscle car in person, making it a true collector’s item. Background of the Shelby GT500 The Ford Mustang made its debut in 1964, quickly capturing the attention of car enthusiasts and consumers alike. It was a revolutionary entry into the automotive market, combining style, affordability, and performance in a way that had never been seen before. The Mustang ignited the muscle car craze, leading to fierce competition among automakers to produce high-performance variants. Carroll Shelby, a renowned American automotive designer and racing driver, played a pivotal role in this evolution. He recognized the Mustang’s potential and transformed it into a series of high-performance models, most notably the GT350 and later the GT500. The transition from the original GT350 to the GT500 was significant. The GT350 was focused on racing, featuring a tuned version of the 289 cubic inch V8 engine, while the GT500 introduced a more powerful 428 cubic inch V8 engine. This transition marked a shift toward a more aggressive performance-oriented version of the Mustang, catering to a growing audience of enthusiasts who craved speed and power. With the introduction of the GT500, Shelby solidified his relationship with Ford and set the stage for the legendary Super Snake. The Genesis of the Super Snake The GT500 Super Snake was conceived as a special edition of the GT500, initially intended for racing. The story goes that Shelby wanted to create a powerful variant that would dominate the track, and the Super Snake was born from that ambition. The car was equipped with extensive modifications, including a supercharged engine capable of producing around 800 horsepower, which was monumental at the time. The name “Super Snake” carries significant weight in the racing world. It was inspired by the original Cobra race cars, which Shelby had famously raced. The Super Snake was not just about speed; it was about creating a legacy on the racetrack. Although only a handful of these cars were built, they were designed to be the pinnacle of performance and engineering, showcasing Shelby’s dedication to racing and innovation. Production Numbers and Rarity The production numbers for the 1967 Shelby GT500 Super Snake are strikingly low, with only two known examples built. This limited production run is a primary factor contributing to the car’s rarity. The Super Snake was initially a prototype, and one of the two cars was later modified for street use. The other remains in a private collection, making public sightings nearly impossible. This scarcity has made the Super Snake an iconic collector’s item, commanding astronomical prices at auctions and among private collectors. Factors contributing to the Super Snake’s rarity include not only its limited production but also the fact that it was specifically designed for racing and was never meant for mass production. The combination of its unique features, racing pedigree, and low numbers has created a perfect storm of desirability among enthusiasts. As a result, its rarity has a significant impact on its collector value, with prices often reaching into the millions. The allure of owning a piece of automotive history that few have ever seen or driven only adds to its mystique. Performance Specifications When it comes to performance, the 1967 Shelby GT500 Super Snake stands out in a field of formidable muscle cars. The Super Snake’s 428 cubic inch V8 engine, enhanced with a Paxton supercharger, was capable of producing around 800 horsepower, a staggering figure for its time. This power translated into incredible acceleration, allowing the car to compete directly with some of the best performance vehicles on the market, including contemporary models like the Chevrolet Camaro and Dodge Charger. In comparison to other GT500 models, the Super Snake was a significant leap forward in terms of horsepower and torque. While the standard GT500 boasted around 355 horsepower, the Super Snake’s enhancements made it a true powerhouse, capable of delivering blistering performance on both the street and the track. This emphasis on raw power has cemented the Super Snake’s legacy as one of the most formidable muscle cars ever produced, ensuring its place in automotive history. Design and Features The design of the 1967 Shelby GT500 Super Snake was as much about aesthetics as it was about performance. The car featured unique body modifications, including a distinctive front grille and a more aggressive stance, which set it apart from other Mustangs of the era. Its sleek lines and functional aerodynamics were not merely for show; they played a crucial role in enhancing the Super Snake’s handling and stability at high speeds. Inside the Super Snake, the focus was on providing a driver-centric experience. The interior featured sporty bucket seats, a tachometer, and an upgraded sound system, ensuring that drivers could enjoy the thrill of performance without sacrificing comfort. The materials used were of high quality, reflecting the premium nature of this special edition. These design choices were integral to the Super Snake’s appeal, making it as enjoyable to drive on the street as it was on the track. Notable Owners and Stories Over the years, the 1967 Shelby GT500 Super Snake has attracted a variety of notable owners, each with their own stories and experiences. One of the most famous was Carroll Shelby himself, who owned one of the original prototypes. His involvement with the car adds a layer of authenticity and significance, as it represents his vision of performance and engineering excellence. Other celebrity owners have included high-profile figures in the automotive industry and collectors, further enhancing the car’s allure. Stories surrounding the Super Snake often highlight its significance in popular culture. For instance, it has made appearances in automotive magazines and television shows, capturing the imagination of car enthusiasts around the world. The car’s exclusivity and the legends surrounding its performance have made it a topic of discussion in automotive circles, often leading to anecdotes that celebrate its legacy and impact on the muscle car genre. Market Value and Collectibility The market value of the 1967 Shelby GT500 Super Snake has seen a steady increase over the years, reflecting its rarity and desirability among collectors. Current trends indicate that these vehicles can fetch prices in the millions at auction, particularly when they come with a solid provenance and are in excellent condition. The combination of their limited production numbers and the iconic status of the Shelby name ensures that the Super Snake remains a sought-after item among collectors. Factors affecting the value of the Super Snake include its condition, originality, and documentation. Cars that come with detailed histories and have been meticulously maintained tend to command higher prices. In comparison to other collectible muscle cars, the Super Snake stands out not only for its performance but also for its unique place in automotive history. Collectors often view it as an investment opportunity, with the potential for significant appreciation over time. Challenges in Ownership Owning a 1967 Shelby GT500 Super Snake comes with its own set of challenges. One of the primary concerns for current owners is maintenance, as finding parts for such a rare vehicle can be difficult. Many components are unique to the Super Snake, and sourcing authentic parts can require extensive research and networking within the collector community. Additionally, ensuring that any repairs or restorations are done correctly is crucial for preserving the vehicle’s value. Authenticity is paramount in the world of classic car collecting, and the Super Snake is no exception. Documentation proving the car’s history and its place in the limited production run is essential for maintaining its value. Owners often find themselves involved in a community of enthusiasts and collectors who share insights, tips, and resources for ensuring that their vehicles remain in pristine condition. This community can be a valuable asset for anyone looking to navigate the complexities of owning such a rare and storied car. More from Fast Lane OnlyUnboxing the WWII Jeep in a Crate15 rare Chevys collectors are quietly buying10 underrated V8s still worth hunting downPolice notice this before you even roll window down The post The 1967 Shelby GT500 Super Snake was so rare most enthusiasts never see one appeared first on FAST LANE ONLY.