Shelby GT350 orders end next week!

If you're looking to pick up a new Shelby GT350, you'd better act quickly, as Shelby American will be closing the order books for this model on December 31, 2013.

Earlier this year, the Las Vegas-based performance car builder announced that 2013 will be the last year of availability for its limited-run series of Shelby GT350 muscle cars that were introduced in late 2010.

"When we unveiled this latest version of the Shelby GT350, we promised it would be built for a limited time to preserve its collectability and value," said John Luft, president of Shelby American. "We've been preparing for this day [and] in true Carroll Shelby fashion, we're planning our next ultimate performance Shelby model."

To create the GT350, Shelby American use the "small block" 5.0-litre Ford Mustang GT as a base, then enhance or replace every aspect of the car to create the ultimate, balanced performance pony car that Shelby says is true to the spirit of the 1960's era Shelby GT350.

Shelby GT350 - the modern history
The first (2011) model year 45th Anniversary Shelby GT350's were all coupes clad in Competition White with Guardsmen Blue stripes, just as Shelby American did with the initial GT-350 in 1965.

In 2012, three more colors (red, blue and anniversary black/gold celebrating 50 years of Shelby American), as well as a convertible were offered, similar to the options offered by Shelby American in 1966.

For the 2013 model year, Shelby American expanded color options, equipment choices and styling changes, while the performance improvements remained intact.

As of January 1, 2014, the GT350 chapter of Shelby American's modern history will close. Production will continue on all existing models, including the Shelby GTS, GT500 Super Snake and Shelby 1000, Shelby Raptor muscle truck and 'hot hatch' Shelby Focus ST.

Further details at www.shelbyamerican.com