Miniature Shelby Mustangs in 1/64 Scale
by Dave Weber |
Having reviewed the styling changes on the regular '64-'73 Mustang models
in part 1 of this story, it is necessary to also
do the same to differentiate the Shelby models from the regular production
models.
1965- The first Shelby was a fastback model and featured racing stripes
from front to back in addition to a much more powerful engine. The car was
called the GT- 350 1966- Changes were minor except that a few convertibles
were produced. However a special series of GT- 350H models were produced
for th Hertz Rental Agency. Full triangular side windows were added and
all the cars were painted in black with gold trim including striping.
1967- A greater difference in style was featured in the Shelby from
the stock model. The grille was removed and a pair of high beam lights were
placed in the center. Lock pins were used to fasten the engine hood. Air
scoops were situated on the hood and large air scoops were placed in the
area where the rear windows had been located the previous year.
1968- The high beams were removed from the grille area and replaced
with widely spaced rectangular fog lights.
1969- The front end deviated greatly from the stock Mustang. This
new design was later copied by Ford in the early 1970s on their Mach 1 series.
1970 This was the last year for the Shelby Mustang. No new cars were
produced. Only leftover stock was assembled and designated with 1970 serial
numbers.
The following is a review of small-scale Shelby models by manufacturer.
HOT WHEELS issued a 1965 G 350 fastback version In their Jay Leno
Collector series . This model is still available at selected diecast dealers.
A 1966 Fastback GT 350 was also made available recently in the Collectors
series. A 1967 GT 500 fastback is still available from the former Legends
series of the late 1990s.
JOHNNY LIGHTNING issued a 1966 GT 350H fastback ( Hertz model) #161
in the Classic Gold series in 1998. A 1967 GT 350 fastback #723 was issued
in 1998 in the Mustang Illustrated series and 1968 GT 350 and 500 fastbacks
under model #215 ( same casting) were first issued in the Muscle Car ll
series in 1996. Also recently announced for production later this year by
Playing Mantis are models of the 1969 GT 350 in both fastback and convertible
castings as part of the new Mustangs Series release 1.
1966 Shelby GT 350 |
1968 Shelby GT 350 |
1968 Shelby GT 500 |
IMPERIAL TOYS issued a fairly nondescript model about 3 years ago.
Some collectors believe it is a late 1960s Shelby, but the absence of prominent
air scoops suggests this is a replica of an early 1970s regular Mustang,
produced after Shelby- American ceased operations.
MATCHBOX/ LESNEY issued a model of the GT 350 in 1970 # 23 F of a
1965-66 fastback.
RACING CHAMPIONS issued a 1968 GT 500KR fastback #5 in 1996 in their
Mint Editions series. A variation on this same model was also produced in
the Street Wheels budget series.
1968 GT 500KR |
1968 Shelby (Street Wheels) |
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TIGER WHEELS of Puerto Rico has announced a 1968 GT 350 fastback
to be made by Anson which will be issued later this year.
VALVOLINE issued a 1965 GT350 fastback in 1993 as part of their "10
Most Wanted " promotional set. This model has a great deal of design
distortion and the body is somewhat stylized It is not a good replica of
the Shelby super car.
1966 Shelby GT 350 |
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ZYLMEX/ ZEETOYS produced a fastback model of about a 1967 car in
the early 1990s. It carries # P392 and is called a Mustang Pro Street. No
mention is made by this manufacturer about this car being a Shelby replica.
However, the characteristic air scoops are very prominent on the side fenders
and behind the rear doors which strongly suggests it does represent a Shelby.
This completes my review of all known Mustangs in 1/64 scale known to
me in the time span being studied. I have recently become aware that not
all areas, regions and countries have the same availability to the lesser
known manufacturers. As a result, I am sure some of the products issued
by the low end toy producers ( some from Asia) have eluded my collection
and knowledge of availability. I am sure there are some "junk toy"
Mustangs on the market that could be recognized. For example I have been
advised that Tootsietoy produced a 1 piece casting in their Jam-Pac sets
in the late 80s and early 90s. These toys were sold in a bag with multiple
pieces and measured about 2 inches in length. As always any additions or
corrections are welcome.
Major sources:
Editors, "100 Years of the American Auto", 1999
Ragan, M. "Tomart’s Price Guide to Johnny Lightning"
, 2001
Strauss, M. "Tomart’s Price Guide to Hot Wheels" ( various
editions to date)
Wieland & Force. "Detroit in Miniature" , 1982
