In the vintage car world, the copies with the most compelling stories are invariably the most valuable, both financially and historically. An auction, which was recently held in Indianapolis, Indiana, again confirmed this finding.
Characterized by auctioneer Mecum as the “most historically significant Mustang in the world,” a 1965 Shelby GT350R became the most expensive Mustang ever traded. Among other things driven by British driver Ken Miles, whose story was brought to the big screen in the film Ford v Ferrari , this historic coin sold for 3.85 million US. It is recognized in the world of Mustang enthusiasts as the “Flying Mustang”, a nickname attributable to a photo taken of the car during an event while its four wheels are completely off the ground. Ford took up the powerful image to develop a marketing offensive to boost sales of its Pony Car.
Its historical value lies as much in its well-stocked racing track record as in its second mandate as a test bench for high performance parts. Thus, drivers Ken Miles and Chuck Cantwell have completed tens of thousands of kilometers at the wheel to ensure the development of Carroll Shelby’s team. It is also the first Shelby Mustang in a long line to participate in professional competitions.
After her short career, which ended in 1966, she was sold to a Ford engineer for the modest sum of … US $ 4,000!
