A 1965 Shelby Mustang GT350R set a new world record for Ford Mustang prices when it was sold for $3.58 million at Mecum Auction's Indy 2020 event in July. It was considered the most historically significant Shelby Mustang, simply because it was the prototype that started it all for the Ford pony. That it was raced by Ken Miles, who was prominently featured in Ford vs Ferrari probably didn't hurt. The GT350R prototype was followed by 34 production racers and Mecum is lining up one of these instant classics at its Kissimmee Auction scheduled on January 7-17, 2021.
Originally Owned And Raced By Richard Jordan
This Shelby Mustang GT350R SCCA B Production racer (Serial No. 5R106) was ordered by a certain Richard Jordan through Jack Loftus Ford Inc. in Hinsdale, Illinois. In late August 1965, Jordan took delivery of a full-competition R-Model powered by a 325-hp Shelby-modified 289 HiPo small-block V8 engine with an additional rear axle assembly (4.11:1 gearing).
The car had its first race (B Production class at Road America) on September 4, 1965. In the 1970s, Jordan called quits on his racing career and placed his GT350R 5R106 into long-term storage. It was bought and restored by Paul Zimmons in 1987, and the car went back to racing. It was subsequently owned by Dave Christenholz and Colin Comer.
Restored To Original Competition Specs
This Mustang GT350R 5R106 underwent an authentic and factory-correct restoration employing only original and NOS service parts as needed. It still has its original Plexiglas windows and 15"x7" American Racing R-Model magnesium racing wheels. Sporting a fiberglass front body apron, the GT350R 5R106 is wrapped in Wimbledon White exterior finish with No. 5 Dick Jordan livery and a black interior.
For power, the R-Model is still powered by its original 289-ci V8 engine and drivetrain, as supported by a Holley 4-barrel carburetor, Cobra high-rise intake manifold, Tri-Y headers, oil cooler and high-capacity radiators, as well as independent front suspension with coil springs, live rear suspension with leaf springs and front disc brakes.
A Mustang GT350R Only Driven For 4,930 Miles
With power sent to the wheels via a Borg Warner T10 M 4-speed transmission, this 1-of-34 production Shelby Mustang GT350R has been driven for around 4,930 miles on its original engine. It seems this perennial American racing classic was only driven during races.
Source: Mecum Auctions