A Rare Muscle Legend: The 1969 Shelby GT500 Convertible
A super rare 1969 Shelby GT500 Convertible has shown up again, and it’s more than just special—it’s almost one-of-a-kind. Painted in eye-catching Grabber Green with a sleek black interior and a four-speed manual transmission, this car is only one of two ever made in this exact combo. Add in a powerful 428 Cobra Jet engine and a famous rock star as a previous owner, and you’ve got a car that’s as iconic as it is valuable.
Only Two Like It in the World
This isn’t your average muscle car. In 1969, only 245 Shelby GT500 convertibles were built. But only two were made with this exact setup: Grabber Green paint, black interior, and a four-speed manual. That makes this Shelby one of the rarest out there.
Built for Power and History
This car was built on April 1, 1969, and first sold at Ogden Ford in Utah. From 1994 to 2004, it was owned by Les Claypool, the founder and lead singer of the band Primus. After that, it went through a full seven-year restoration by Cobra Automotive in Connecticut. Every part was carefully rebuilt or restored—especially the legendary 428 Cobra Jet engine and the Toploader manual transmission.
The engine produces 335 horsepower and 440 lb-ft of torque. It uses a Ram Air intake, a four-barrel carburetor, and a dual exhaust system. Power is sent to the rear wheels using a Centerforce clutch and 3.50 rear-end gears with Traction-Lok. This car was made to move—and sound—like a true Shelby.
Restored to Perfection
This Shelby looks just as good as it drives. It rolls on 15-inch Shelby wheels with BFGoodrich Radial T/A tires and includes power front disc brakes. The Competition Suspension package, with Koni shocks, improves handling. The hood, fenders, and trunk lid are made of lightweight fiberglass, and the hood has five racing-style air ducts with quick-release latches.
Inside, the cabin is packed with Shelby details—like high-back bucket seats, a center console with toggle switches, wood trim, and a roll bar. The original AM/FM radio is still in place. Gauges include a 140-mph speedometer and an 8,000-rpm tachometer, along with fuel and oil pressure indicators.
Key Highlights:
- Only 245 GT500 convertibles were made in 1969
- Just 1 of 2 with this exact color, interior, and manual gearbox
- Went through a full 7-year restoration, finished in 2011
- Previously owned by rock star Les Claypool of Primus
- Comes with detailed records, including a Deluxe Marti Report, service history, and more
The car also includes a Shelby manual, original order forms, ownership records, and a replica window sticker. It was part of the Carroll Collection in Michigan and is now being auctioned. With only hours to go, the current bid sits at $140,000—and rising.
FAQs
1. How many 1969 Shelby GT500 convertibles were made?
Only 245 were produced in 1969, making them very rare muscle cars.
2. What makes this specific Shelby GT500 so unique?
It’s one of only two ever made with Grabber Green paint, a black interior, and a four-speed manual transmission.
3. Who previously owned this Shelby GT500?
Les Claypool, the lead singer and bassist of the band Primus, owned it from 1994 to 2004.
4. How powerful is the car’s engine?
It has a 428 Cobra Jet V8 engine rated at 335 horsepower and 440 lb-ft of torque.
