GT350 Owned by Barrett-Jackson CEO Going to New Home
Authentic 1965 Shelby GT350 is a tried and true barn find owned by Barrett-Jackson’s own Craig Jackson, and it will soon be for sale.
Perhaps the most recognizable paint scheme of any car ever made is the classic Wimbledon White GT350 with its legendary blue racing stripes. This car, in most cases, needs no introduction. You know exactly what it is. Furthermore, you’re familiar with these monsters’ heritage that is every bit as all-American as a slice of apple pie at a baseball game. This GT350, though, has a bit more to it than most.
It isn’t just that it is an original GT350 that will sell at Barrett-Jackson’s Scottsdale 2021 event. This particular GT350 belongs to the CEO of Barrett-Jackson, Craig Jackson. It is no secret that these authentic Shelby cars carry a lofty hammer price. However, this one is not completely original. That being said, it is nothing shy of a beautiful reminder of the iconic partnership between the Ford Motor Company and the mad genius mind of the one and only Carroll Shelby. Though we are creeping up on the eighth anniversary of Shelby’s passing, these remarkable cars and the endless stories of life will ensure his name is carried on as an automotive legend for decades to come.
Revamped From Tip to Tail
This GT350 was subject to a total ground-up restoration by SAAC Head Judge John Brown of Thoroughbred Restorations. It was meticulously brought back to its original specifications. It is identical to the day it rolled out of Shelby’s California warehouse over 50 years ago. Its 289 cubic-inch V8 pumps 306 horsepower through the Borg Warner four-speed manual transmission. While 306 horsepower may not be an astonishing number by today’s standards, it was nothing short of a rocket ship in 1965.
It has low miles, too. As outlined in a Barrett-Jackson youtube video, the GT350, unfortunately, went off the road early in its life. The accident left it with funky steering issues. It was left to sit after that incident. However, in 2016 it was rediscovered and purchased by Jackson. After the basic maintenance and repairs were done, it was brought back to the original factory specs. It’s always fun to hear about these unique stories. It just goes to show that no matter how rare a car is, there is likely still a survivor out in the wild. Nothing is more satisfying than seeing something this rare and sought after properly loved.
Best Shelby on the Planet
Given Brown’s instructions to create the “best Shelby on the planet,” we can assume this car drives like a dream. Jackson himself even admits that he is hesitant to drive because it is so pristine and put together with very difficult to obtain parts. There are plenty of keywords in there that all add up to a costly purchase. While we don’t know what this GT350 is going to sell for, we can safely assume it will be a number that will frighten most of us common folk. Our only hope is that its new owner takes it out for a drive every once in a while.
Photos: Barrett-Jackson