Shelby GT500KR

vs

Chevrolet Chevelle

USA vs USA — 1968 vs 1967

Shelby GT500KR (1968)
Chevrolet Chevelle (1967)
Specifications
GT500KR King of the RoadChevelle SS 396 L35
Horsepower335 hp325 hp
Torque440 lb-ft425 lb-ft
Engine Size7,014 cc6,489 cc
0-60 mph6.5 sec6.5 sec
Top Speed130 mph124 mph
¼ Mile14.0 sec14.8 sec
Weight3,500 lbs3,400 lbs
Wheelbase2,743 mm2,921 mm
Length4,699 mm5,055 mm
Units Produced1,57063,006
Original MSRP$4,473$2,825
Value (Excellent)$350,000$95,000
Collectibility9/108/10
Rarity8/106/10
The Verdict

Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1968 Shelby GT500KR King of the Road excels in higher top speed, greater rarity, stronger collectibility, while the 1967 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 L35 stands out for quicker acceleration, better value. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.

Overview

Among Muscle Car enthusiasts, the matchup between the 1968 Shelby GT500KR King of the Road and 1967 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 L35 is one for the ages. These Muscle era machines competed directly for buyers' attention and continue to vie for collectors' affections today. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1968 Shelby GT500KR King of the Road producing 335 hp and the 1967 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 L35 delivering 325 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Shelby GT500KR uses a V8 OHV 16V displacing 7,014 cc, while the Chevrolet Chevelle relies on a V8 OHV with 6,489 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1967 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 L35 edges ahead at 6.5 seconds versus 6.5 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 1,570 units built, the 1968 Shelby GT500KR King of the Road is considerably scarcer than the Chevrolet Chevelle's 63,006 examples. On the collector market, the 1968 Shelby GT500KR King of the Road commands a significant premium over the 1967 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 L35, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.