Few cars command the kind of respect and inspire the same level of passion as the Ford Mustang. Since its debut in 1964, the Mustang has become an icon, representing American muscle, performance, and freedom on the open road. As a lifelong car enthusiast and author here at Car News, I’ve had the privilege of driving many vehicles, but the allure of a classic Mustang remains unmatched.
The Mustang’s appeal isn’t limited to just driving experience; it has also cemented its place in history as a valuable collector’s item, with certain models fetching astronomical prices at auctions. Today, we’ll delve into the world of high-stakes collecting, exploring the stories behind the six most expensive Mustangs ever sold. Buckle up, because we’re about to embark on a thrilling ride through automotive history!
Mustangs That Made History: Millions on the Auction Block
While the original Mustang was marketed towards a younger, budget-conscious audience, time has turned these “affordable” sports cars into sought-after treasures. The following six Mustangs represent the pinnacle of this phenomenon, each boasting incredible historical significance, unique features, and a price tag that reflects their legendary status.
1. 1965 Shelby Mustang GT350R: The Flying Mustang Soars to $3.5 Million
This isn’t just any Shelby Mustang GT350R – this is the Shelby Mustang GT350R. Serial number R5002, this car is believed to be the first GT350R ever built and boasts an incredible racing pedigree. Piloted by legendary driver Ken Miles, R5002 secured victory in its inaugural race, earning the nickname “The Flying Mustang” for a now-iconic photograph capturing it airborne.
After a successful racing career, this piece of history crossed the auction block at Mecum Auctions, achieving a record-breaking $3.5 million sale price. This landmark sale solidified the GT350R’s place as the most expensive Mustang ever sold, a testament to its provenance and the enduring legacy of Carroll Shelby’s creations.
2. 1968 Ford Mustang GT390 “Bullitt”: A Movie Star Commands $3.4 Million
Immortalized in the heart-stopping car chase scene in Steve McQueen’s “Bullitt,” this Highland Green 1968 Ford Mustang GT390 transcended its status as a mere car, becoming a cultural icon. After filming, the car disappeared from the public eye for decades, only to resurface in 2018, captivating enthusiasts worldwide.
Its reappearance was as impactful as its on-screen debut. Ford used the car for a year to promote the latest Mustang model before it headed to auction. The hammer fell at an astonishing $3.4 million, proving the magnetism of Steve McQueen and the unforgettable legacy of this silver screen legend.
3. 1967 Shelby GT500 Super Snake: A One-of-a-Kind Snake Bites $1.3 Million
Born from a collaboration between Shelby American and Goodyear, the 1967 Shelby GT500 Super Snake was more than just a car – it was a statement. With a monstrous 427 V8 churning out over 600 horsepower, this unique creation was intended to showcase the capabilities of Goodyear’s new line of tires.
While plans for a limited production run were scrapped, the lone Super Snake achieved legendary status. This automotive unicorn, the sole testament to an ambitious project, changed hands for an impressive $1.3 million at a 2019 auction, proving that exclusivity and raw power remain a potent combination in the collector car market.
4. 2020 Ford Shelby Mustang GT500: Modern Muscle Makes $1.1 Million
The 2020 Shelby Mustang GT500 marked a new era for the Mustang, achieving near-supercar performance with its 760-horsepower supercharged V8 and sophisticated fully independent rear suspension. This wasn’t just an evolution of the Mustang formula; it was a revolution.
The very first production model of this game-changer was auctioned off at the prestigious Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale auction. It fetched an impressive $1.1 million, a testament to the car’s groundbreaking performance and the enduring allure of owning a piece of automotive history. All proceeds from the sale were donated to charity, adding to the car’s already remarkable story.
5. 1967 Shelby Mustang GT500 “Eleanor”: Movie Magic Nets $1 Million
“Gone in 60 Seconds” (2000) might not have been a critical darling, but it did give us “Eleanor,” a customized 1967 Shelby Mustang GT500 that stole every scene it graced. This wasn’t just a pretty face, though. This “Eleanor” was a fully functional beast, its silver and black body hiding a heart built for high-octane action.
Designed by the legendary Chip Foose, this movie star muscle car raced its way to a $1 million sale price at a Mecum Auctions event. This sale proves that a compelling on-screen presence can translate into real-world value, further solidifying “Eleanor’s” place in automotive and cinematic history.
6. 1965 Shelby Mustang GT350R: Racing Pedigree Drives $984,500 Sale
The GT350R proves its dominance once again with this 1965 model, chassis number SFM-5R538. Driven by Charlie Kemp and meticulously maintained by mechanic Pete Hood, this car achieved an impressive 17 consecutive victories between 1968 and 1969.
This car’s incredible performance on the track caught the eye of Carroll Shelby himself. Its 184 mph run at Daytona in 1968 led to a thorough inspection, confirming its status as a true performance machine. When the car went up for sale at an RM Sotheby’s auction in Monterey, it hammered for a cool $984,500, proving that racing provenance and a connection to Carroll Shelby make for a winning combination.
A Legacy Forged in Performance and Passion
These six Mustangs represent more than just high-priced metal; they are rolling testaments to the power of passion, performance, and legacy. From the racetrack to the silver screen, these cars have captured hearts and imaginations for generations, solidifying their place in automotive history.
Do you have a favorite Mustang story? Share it with us in the comments below! And don’t forget to check out our other articles for more insights from the world of automobiles.