While the Boss 429 is a legendary Mustang known for its rarity and performance, there are even rarer Mustangs that capture the imagination of car enthusiasts. These Mustangs are not only scarce but also hold a special place in automotive history. Let’s delve into some of the rarest Mustangs that stand out even more than the illustrious Boss 429.
1965 Shelby GT350R
The 1965 Shelby GT350R is a cornerstone in the Mustang racing legacy. Built specifically for competition, only 36 units were produced. These cars were stripped of unnecessary features to save weight, and they boasted a high-revving, race-tuned 289-cubic inch V8 engine. The GT350R featured fiberglass body panels and a unique suspension setup, making it a formidable opponent on the track. This racing pedigree has made it a highly sought-after collector’s item.
One of the most famous GT350Rs is the one driven by Ken Miles, which won numerous races and established the Mustang’s prowess in motorsport. This particular car was sold at auction for over $3.5 million, underscoring its status as a piece of racing history.
1967 Shelby GT500 Super Snake
The 1967 Shelby GT500 Super Snake was a one-of-a-kind prototype built to showcase Goodyear’s Thunderbolt tires. Powered by a 427 cubic-inch V8 engine borrowed from the Le Mans-winning Ford GT40, this car was capable of reaching speeds over 150 mph. The Super Snake was initially intended for a limited production run, but its high cost deterred buyers, leaving it as a singular, unique model.
Today, the Super Snake is considered among the rarest of Mustangs, and its history as a tire-testing vehicle adds an unusual twist to its story. Its rarity and performance make it a legendary figure in Mustang lore.
1968 Mustang 428 Cobra Jet Lightweight
In 1968, Ford produced a limited number of Mustang 428 Cobra Jet Lightweights for NHRA drag racing. These cars were built with performance in mind, featuring a powerful 428 cubic-inch engine, lightweight fiberglass components, and a stripped-down interior. Only 50 units were produced, making them incredibly rare.
The Cobra Jet Lightweights are celebrated for their racing success, often dominating their class in drag events. Their rarity and performance heritage make them highly coveted among collectors and racing enthusiasts alike.
1969 Shelby GT500 Convertible
The 1969 Shelby GT500 Convertible is a rare sight, with only 335 units produced. This model combined high-performance features with the open-air driving experience of a convertible, powered by a robust 428 Cobra Jet engine. The GT500 Convertible was a blend of luxury and performance, marking the end of the Shelby Mustangs until their revival in the 21st century.
Collectors prize these convertibles not only for their scarcity but also for their place in Mustang history, representing the final chapter of the original Shelby era.
1970 Boss 302 Trans Am
The 1970 Boss 302 Trans Am was designed to dominate the SCCA Trans Am racing series. With only a handful of race-prepared units built by Ford, these cars featured a high-revving 302 cubic-inch engine and a race-tuned suspension. The Boss 302’s aggressive performance on the track solidified its reputation as a formidable competitor.
These race cars are incredibly rare and are considered some of the most desirable Mustangs for collectors who appreciate their racing heritage and historical significance.
1971 Mustang Mach 1 429 Super Cobra Jet
The 1971 Mustang Mach 1 429 Super Cobra Jet was a muscle car enthusiast’s dream, equipped with the most powerful engine option available at the time. Fewer than 900 units were produced with the Super Cobra Jet package, which included the Drag Pack option for enhanced performance.
This model stands out for its raw power and is highly prized by Mustang aficionados who value the muscle car era’s peak performance achievements.
1972 Mustang Sprint Edition
The 1972 Mustang Sprint Edition was a rare model produced to commemorate the 1972 Olympics and the United States’ bicentennial. Featuring a distinctive red, white, and blue color scheme, these cars were built in limited numbers. Approximately 9,383 units were made, but only a small fraction were convertibles, adding to their rarity.
These cars are celebrated for their unique styling and are a favorite among collectors who appreciate their historical connection and patriotic theme.
2000 Mustang Cobra R
The 2000 Mustang Cobra R was a limited-production model with only 300 units made. Designed for performance enthusiasts, it featured a 5.4-liter DOHC V8 engine producing 385 horsepower. The car was stripped of amenities like air conditioning and a rear seat to reduce weight, focusing solely on performance.
With its track-ready features and limited availability, the Cobra R has become a modern classic, appealing to collectors who value its performance capabilities and exclusivity.
2015 Mustang GT350R Prototype
The 2015 Mustang GT350R Prototype holds a special place as a development model for the production GT350R. As a prototype, it was not intended for public sale, making it exceptionally rare. This car featured a high-revving 5.2-liter V8 engine and advanced aerodynamics, setting the stage for the production version’s success.
Collectors and Mustang enthusiasts prize prototypes for their developmental significance and uniqueness, making this GT350R Prototype a highly sought-after piece of Mustang history.
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