USA vs Australia — 1967 vs 1971
| GT500 428 Cobra Jet | Falcon GT-HO Phase III | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 335 hp | 300 hp |
| Torque | 440 lb-ft | 360 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 7,014 cc | 5,763 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.5 sec | 6.4 sec |
| Top Speed | 135 mph | 142 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 13.5 sec | 14.4 sec |
| Weight | 3,400 lbs | — |
| Wheelbase | 2,743 mm | 2,819 mm |
| Length | 4,673 mm | 4,900 mm |
| Units Produced | 2,048 | 300 |
| Original MSRP | $4,317 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $300,000 | $1,400,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 10/10 |
On balance, the 1967 Shelby GT500 428 Cobra Jet makes a stronger case on paper with more power, quicker acceleration, stronger collectibility. However, the 1971 Ford Falcon GT-HO Phase III counters with higher top speed, greater rarity, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1967 Shelby GT500 428 Cobra Jet for outright capability, or the 1971 Ford Falcon GT-HO Phase III for a more distinctive ownership experience.
The rivalry between USA and Australia automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1967 Shelby GT500 428 Cobra Jet versus 1971 Ford Falcon GT-HO Phase III is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1967 Shelby GT500 428 Cobra Jet holds a clear advantage in raw power with 335 hp compared to 300 hp, a 35-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Shelby GT500 uses a V8 OHV (Ford 428 Cobra Jet) displacing 7,014 cc, while the Ford Falcon relies on a V8 OHV 16V with 5,763 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1967 Shelby GT500 428 Cobra Jet edges ahead at 5.5 seconds versus 6.4 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 300 units built, the 1971 Ford Falcon GT-HO Phase III is considerably scarcer than the Shelby GT500's 2,048 examples. On the collector market, the 1971 Ford Falcon GT-HO Phase III commands a significant premium over the 1967 Shelby GT500 428 Cobra Jet, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1967 Shelby GT500 428 Cobra Jet rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.