The 1967 Shelby GT500 is one of the most iconic and sought-after muscle cars of all time. The legendary car, which was a collaboration between Ford and Carroll Shelby, featured a 7.0-liter V8 engine that delivered 355 horsepower and a distinctive fastback design. Only 2,048 units were produced, making it a rare and valuable collector’s item.
But what if you could own a 1967 Shelby GT500 that has been modernized with the latest technology and performance enhancements? That is exactly what Hi-Tech Automotive, a South African company that specializes in building replica and custom cars, has done. The company has launched a modernized version of the 1967 Shelby GT500, which combines the classic look and feel of the original car with the power and convenience of a 21st century vehicle.
A Modernized Classic
Hi-Tech Automotive has been building replica and custom cars since 1999, and has a reputation for quality and craftsmanship. The company has partnered with Revology Cars, a Florida-based company that builds licensed reproduction Mustangs, to create the modernized version of the 1967 Shelby GT500.
The car is built on a new, officially licensed reproduction body made of steel, which is strengthened with the floorpan and reinforcement plates from the late-60s convertibles, as well as an x-brace subframe connector. The car also features a new coil-over suspension, rack and pinion power steering, and four-wheel disc brakes.
The engine is a 5.0-liter Coyote V8 from Roush Performance, which produces 710 horsepower and 610 pound-feet of torque. The engine is paired with either a six-speed manual or a 10-speed automatic transmission, and has a custom exhaust system that mimics the sound of the original car.
The interior is also updated with modern amenities, such as leather seats, air conditioning, power windows, a digital instrument cluster, a touchscreen infotainment system, and a backup camera. The car also has LED headlights, taillights, and turn signals, as well as a remote keyless entry system.
A Limited Edition
The modernized version of the 1967 Shelby GT500 is not a mass-produced car, but a limited edition that is built to order. The car is available in various colors and options, and each one is numbered and comes with a certificate of authenticity. The car also has a Shelby serial number and a Shelby American Vehicle Identification Number (SAVIN), which makes it eligible for inclusion in the official Shelby American Registry.
The car is priced at $219,000, which is comparable to the original car’s value in today’s market. According to Hi-Tech Automotive, the car is designed for enthusiasts who appreciate the history and heritage of the 1967 Shelby GT500, but also want a car that can be driven and enjoyed on a regular basis.
The car was debuted at the Specialty Equipment Manufacturers Association (SEMA) show in Las Vegas in October 2023, and has received positive feedback from the media and the public. The car is expected to be delivered to customers in early 2024.
A Tribute to a Legend
The modernized version of the 1967 Shelby GT500 is not only a tribute to the original car, but also to the man behind it: Carroll Shelby. Shelby, who passed away in 2012, was a renowned racer, engineer, and entrepreneur, who created some of the most iconic and influential cars in automotive history, such as the Shelby Cobra, the Shelby Daytona Coupe, and the Ford GT40.
Shelby’s legacy lives on through his company, Shelby American, which continues to produce high-performance vehicles and parts, as well as through his foundation, which supports children and adults with medical needs. Shelby’s vision and passion for cars have inspired generations of enthusiasts and collectors, who cherish his creations and honor his memory.
The modernized version of the 1967 Shelby GT500 is a testament to Shelby’s genius and innovation, and a celebration of his enduring impact on the automotive world.
