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This rendition of the prized GT500KR is based from the previously issued dark green Shelby GT500KR but is a limited edition of 9900 instead of 3500 and does not carry Shelby’s signature. It is also not $195. It is $120. And maybe slightly prettier due to the paint scheme, at least to my eye. The stance is better too. FM obviously corrected the slightly elevated ride height of the front end of the first GT500KR issue. Yes, indeed, they listen to us collectors and modify their product accordingly.
As with the signature release, the paint on this model is spectacular. Deep and rich, it has a glass-like appearance even from across the room. Body lines and paint stripes are straight and true, the doors, trunk and hood all exhibit perfect fit with no gapping. And although the doors and hood have the old standby hinges, they open wide for good views of what they reveal while closed. In the case of the doors, the interior view is magnificent with the wood-grained steering wheel, dash, console and shift handle. The fabric and photo-etched belts, photo-etched door sill plates and folding seat backs all help with the top notch inside appointment level. Under the trunk lid is the spare, non-removable in this application and perched over a great detailed trunk mat. Jacking instructions are found on the inside trunk lid. Hung from actual springs, the suspension is functional. Under the ram air hood is what made the Shelby GT500KR the real King of the Road (The “KR” portion of the moniker). The air cleaner housing is labeled with the ram air designation, readable with a loupe or magnifying glass. But even cooler is the authentic Shelby Automotive, Inc. sticker showcasing the vehicle’s VIN number on the driver’s side inner fender. All the prerequisite plumbing and wiring are in place and the look is spot on. Just behind the hood are nicely and delicately fabricated wipers in photo-etched metal.
Externally, all the correct badging is in place; “Shelby” up front and spelled out across the rear spoiler lid and on either side highlighting the beast within, “Cobra Jet 428” with Shelby’s Cobra emblem. Overall, FM has once again rendered a really sharp looking Shelby icon in diecast and as a limited edition, a nice addition to the collection.
(10/20/2005)
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