Unleashing the Beast: 1965 Shelby GT350-H Pro Tourer

Pro touring cars have become the hottest trend in the collector car market, striking a perfect balance between modern performance and the timeless allure of classic muscle cars. One particular gem in this segment is the 1965 Shelby GT350-H, a pro tourer that takes the iconic Shelby Mustang to a whole new level. With a heart-pounding 5.0-liter Coyote engine under the hood and a stunning appearance, this car is sure to captivate the hearts of enthusiasts worldwide.

A Tribute to the Legends: The GT350-H Transformation

The journey of the 1965 Shelby GT350-H pro tourer began with a run-of-the-mill 1965 fastback Mustang. This solid foundation served as the canvas for an exquisite tribute build to the legendary Shelby GT350-H. A painstaking rotisserie restoration process ensured that the car’s panels were flawlessly aligned, creating a wave-free and arrow-straight body.

The black beauty received a coat of Ford code A Raven Black basecoat/clearcoat paint, adorned with traditional code Z Sauterne Gold Metallic Shelby stripes featuring the iconic “G.T. 350 H” callouts. The result was an eye-catching and lust-worthy fastback tribute car, boasting better-than-factory panel gaps and an all-business attitude that commands attention.

A Striking Exterior: Classic Shelby Styling Meets Modern Flair

The front of the car showcases a Shelby-style grille with horizontal bars and an offset Mustang emblem, flanked by perfectly functioning stainless trimmed headlights. Below the grille, a Shelby ‘R’ front valence replaces the bumper, incorporating a larger air intake between chrome-trimmed bullet-style marker lights. The fiberglass hood, adorned with a traditional Shelby scoop, aligns flawlessly with the car’s front fenders and valence.

The profile of the car exudes a purpose-built race car appearance, with pristine chrome door handles, a stainless antenna, and rear Shelby-style air scoops as the only bolt-on parts. The rear features Sauterne Gold Metallic stripes, a chrome GT350 fuel filler cap, and like-new segmented brake lights, all enhancing its aggressive persona.

Heart-Stopping Performance: The Coyote Powerhouse

Lift the fiberglass hood, and you’re greeted with a sight that transforms the classic into a state-of-the-art speed demon. The all-aluminum DOHC Ford Motorsports 5.0-liter ‘mod motor’ lies between the satin black fenders, delivering a pavement-scorching 412 horsepower and a hefty 390 lb./ft of torque. Known as the Coyote motor, it features redesigned cylinder heads, 32 lightweight valves, and variable valve timing for optimal performance.

The engine’s front houses an 80 mm throttle body mixing air from a custom stainless air induction system with fuel from a Speed Inc. return style race-ready fuel system. An SCT Performance tuner with a glove box mounted port and a custom Speed Inc. tune ensures precise tuning. The engine bay is immaculately tidy, with “Powered by Ford” cam covers and a nicely detailed “5.0” fuel rail cover, presenting a race-inspired aesthetics.

Driving Excellence: Unparalleled Handling and Stopping Power

True to the spirit of the original Shelby Mustangs, this GT350-H pro tourer prioritizes on-track performance. A new Spec clutch-equipped Tremec TKO600 5-speed manual transmission ensures all five gears are optimized for maximum performance. Power is sent to a Posi-traction Ford 9-inch rear end with formidable 3.90 gears.

The front features a new Heidts subframe combined with tubular control arms, coil-over shocks, and Heidts power rack and pinion steering, delivering excellent grip and handling. The back showcases new leaf springs and shocks, along with a stainless fuel tank equipped with stainless fuel lines and a fuel pressure gauge. The upgraded manual braking system features slotted and drilled rotors at all four corners, while the custom fabricated 2.5-inch exhaust system with X-pipe and polished Magnaflow mufflers creates a throaty and commanding roar.

Interior Comfort and Style: A Timeless Journey

Inside the GT350-H pro tourer, you’ll find a freshly restored factory vinyl interior that complements the car’s custom persona. The front seats wear new covers, offering firm padding and a sense of trophy-worthy luxury. New black carpet anchors Shelby branded front seat belts, protected by retro rubber Shelby floor mats. A billet shifter with a black shift knob sits atop the transmission tunnel, surrounded by chrome trim, adding a touch of elegance.

The chrome-trimmed dash houses a speedometer and gauges, an authentic AM radio, and a large glove box. A replacement black headliner stretches taut above the seats, while stylish stainless-trimmed door panels feature new chrome handles. The driver grips an excellent-looking deluxe steering wheel in front of a column-mounted Shelby tachometer, presenting a classic yet functional interior.

Embracing the Legacy: Documentation and Recognition

This stunning 1965 Shelby GT350-H pro tourer is a testament to passion and dedication, leaving no expense spared. It pays homage to the iconic Shelby heritage while embracing the technology of a modern-day street machine. With its authentic Shelby appearance and mind-blowing performance, it stands as an instantly recognizable classic that will provide an exhilarating driving experience for any enthusiast.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the horsepower rating of the Coyote engine in the GT350-H pro tourer? The Coyote engine in the GT350-H pro tourer is rated at 412 horsepower and 390 lb./ft of torque.
2. Does the car feature a modern transmission? Yes, the GT350-H pro tourer is equipped with a new Spec clutch-equipped Tremec TKO600 5-speed manual transmission.
3. What makes the GT350-H pro tourer different from the original GT350? The GT350-H pro tourer boasts modern performance enhancements, such as the all-aluminum DOHC Ford Motorsports 5.0-liter Coyote engine.
4. Are there any unique styling elements in the car’s exterior? Yes, the car features a Shelby-style grille, offset Mustang emblem, Shelby ‘R’ front valence, and Sauterne Gold Metallic stripes, all paying homage to the classic Shelby Mustangs.
5. Is the GT350-H pro tourer suitable for track driving? Absolutely! The car’s upgraded suspension, powerful engine, and optimized braking system make it ideal for track enthusiasts seeking unmatched performance.

Conclusion: A Timeless Legend Reimagined

In conclusion, the 1965 Shelby GT350-H pro tourer embodies the perfect fusion of classic muscle car charisma and modern-day performance prowess. With its stunning appearance, heart-stopping power, and precision handling, this car has earned its place as a legend reborn. For enthusiasts who crave the charm of yesterday combined with the thrill of today, the GT350-H pro tourer is the ultimate dream machine. Step into the driver’s seat, and unleash the beast that lies within this automotive masterpiece.