The original Shelby GT350R is a legendary car from the mid-1960s based on the Ford Mustang. It was developed by the famous American racer and car designer Carroll Shelby to turn the Mustang into a competitive racing car. The Shelby GT350R is part of the first generation produced from 1965 to 1966. Under the hood is a 4.7-liter V8 engine producing 306 horsepower and mated to a 4-speed manual transmission, making it one of the most powerful cars of its time. Its design, including the iconic blue racing stripes on a white background, solidified its legendary status. These race cars were specifically built for the SCCA B-Production class and featured numerous modifications compared to the production model, like a reinforced body and improved suspension.
Modelly member "Mells" can be proud of his collection, with this 1/18 scale model car from Shelby Collectibles holding a significant place. It's a detailed 1/18 replica of the famous Shelby GT350R. The miniature is faithfully designed according to the specifications of the legendary race car, down to the typical blue racing stripes and the race number 98. The model is made from a mix of materials and represents a masterful piece of automotive history. The detailed interior showcases features like the racing seats and roll cage, typical of a racing car. The engine bay is also highly detailed, including the specially designed air intake and the hood with integrated hood scoop. This attention to detail makes the model especially valuable for collectors.
The Shelby GT350R achieved great success in motorsport, particularly in the SCCA B-Production series. Thanks to its superior technology and the talent of engineers led by Carroll Shelby as well as the drivers, it dominated numerous races in the USA. The development of this vehicle led to the introduction of more advanced techniques that boosted the performance of production cars. Famous drivers who successfully piloted this car include Ken Miles and Bob Bondurant, whose contributions to motorsport are also legendary. These drivers helped cement the Shelby GT350R's place in history not only for its technical features but also for its victories.
The design of the original Shelby GT350R is instantly recognizable with its white paint and distinctive blue racing stripes. These stripes, running from the hood to the trunk lid, give it a unique look. On the model's side, sponsor decals and the race number "98B" are prominently displayed. Key sponsors include Goodyear, whose logo can be found on the tires and the car's sides. The headlights are housed in round casings, and the front is completed with a striking grille design featuring the Ford logo. The special racing tires and the lower bodywork of the model hint at its motorsport tuning.
This 1/18 scale model from Shelby Collectibles is a highlight for any collector. The fine details of the model, including the accurately positioned side mirrors, realistic headlights, and neatly crafted tires, reflect the quality and precision of this model. Particularly striking is the faithful reproduction of the racing livery and the sponsor logos like Goodyear, accentuating its authentic appearance. This showcases the dedication of the manufacturer and the significance of this model for collectors worldwide, also thanks to the mix of materials used in its production. Every detail, from the interior to the chassis to the engine hood, has been meticulously reproduced, capturing the beauty of the original Shelby GT350R perfectly.