USA vs Australia — 1967 vs 1971
| GT500 428 Cobra Jet | Falcon GT-HO Phase III (XY) | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 335 hp | 300 hp |
| Torque | 440 lb-ft | 369 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 7,014 cc | 5,766 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 | 4,870 mm |
| Units Produced | 2,048 | 300 |
| Original MSRP | $4,317 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $300,000 | $1,500,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 9/10 |
The 1967 Shelby GT500 428 Cobra Jet holds an edge across most measurable criteria, offering more power, quicker acceleration, stronger collectibility. That said, the 1971 Ford Falcon GT-HO Phase III (XY) brings higher top speed, greater rarity and remains a compelling choice for enthusiasts who value Ford heritage. The right pick depends on whether you prioritize specifications or the intangible qualities that make a car truly special.
Putting the 1967 Shelby GT500 428 Cobra Jet against the 1971 Ford Falcon GT-HO Phase III (XY) is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — USA versus Australia. 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 with 5,766 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 (XY) is considerably scarcer than the Shelby GT500's 2,048 examples. On the collector market, the 1971 Ford Falcon GT-HO Phase III (XY) 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.