SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., Jan. 18, 2019 – The very first model of the most powerful factory Mustang ever was auctioned tonight for $1.1 million as it goes for the famed muscle car's biggest win ever – trying to help researchers cure children with type 1 diabetes. Craig Jackson, chairman and CEO of Barrett-Jackson, was the winning bidder.

'The chance to become the owner of the first 2020 Ford Shelby GT500 cars is an opportunity of a lifetime,' said Joe Hinrichs, Ford president, global operations. 'More importantly, being involved in helping to raise much needed funds and awareness for JDRF is a big win for everyone.'

Edsel B. Ford II and Aaron Shelby, grandson of the legendary Carroll Shelby, rekindled the performance magic of their two families and energized the auction arena by accompanying the all-new Shelby GT500 onto the block. The winning bidder of Lot No. 3008 – selling at 'no reserve,' or simply the top price is tendered at the auction – became the owner of the coveted first production Ford Shelby GT500 and can choose from available colors and options for the model. Proceeds from the auctioned car are being donated to JDRF.

'For 35 years, Ford Motor Company has fueled the efforts of JDRF researchers to find a cure, while helping millions of children enjoy better lives,' said Edsel B. Ford II. 'The proceeds from this car will add to the more than $3.5 million Ford contributes to JDRF annually, for a total of $70 million donated during our long-time partnership.'

World-beating pedigree

The 2020 Mustang Shelby GT500 draws on Carroll Shelby and Ford's many performance collaborations that began with the Cobra roadster in 1962, which went on to win a world championship. Working together, they also broke the European stranglehold on Le Mans, winning the most important sports car race in the world with the Ford GT-40.

When Ford Motor Company asked Shelby to turn their new Mustang into a race winner for the 1965 model year, the small block Ford Shelby GT350 was born. In 1967, the big block-powered Ford Shelby GT500 was unveiled and it became a star among fans worldwide.

In 2006, Ford and Shelby announced a new generation Ford Shelby GT500. The first 2007 model year car available to the public was sold at Barrett-Jackson in Scottsdale with Edsel B. Ford II and Carroll Shelby watching from the block.

Photo credit: Ford
posted on conceptcarz.com

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