| Production | |
|---|---|
| Model Year: | 1966 |
| Production Years: | 1966 - 1970 discontinued in 1970 |
Precise measurements of the 1966 Ford Shelby I Cabrio, engineered for optimal performance and comfort
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4613 - 4740 mm181.6 - 186.6 in15.1 - 15.6 ft |
| Width: | 1732 - 1811 mm68.2 - 71.3 in5.7 - 5.9 ft |
| Height: | 1300 - 1306 mm51.2 - 51.4 in4.3 - 4.3 ft |
| Weight Specifications | |
| Curb Weight: | 1330 - 1787 kg2932 - 3940 lbs |
The Ford Shelby I Cabrio, produced from 1966 to 1970, remains an iconic example of classic American cabriolet sports cars. This generation of the Shelby model blends exceptional design with remarkable dimensions, making it a unique vehicle in automotive history. The cabriolet's length ranges from 4613 mm to 4740 mm (181.5 to 186.6 inches), offering a balanced size that contributes to both style and performance. Its width varies from 1732 mm to 1811 mm (68.2 to 71.3 inches), providing a stable and sporty stance on the road. The vehicle's height is compact, between 1300 mm and 1306 mm (51.2 to 51.4 inches), which emphasizes its aerodynamic profile and sleek classic look. Curb weight of the Ford Shelby I Cabrio spans from 1330 kg to 1787 kg (2932 to 3940 lbs), reflecting differences in engine configurations and optional equipment throughout its production years. This weight allows the car to maintain an agile driving experience, crucial for a powerful cabriolet designed for enthusiasts who appreciate both performance and the thrill of open-top driving. Overall, the 1966-1970 Shelby I Cabrio is notable for its combination of moderate size, stylish proportions, and relatively lightweight frame, underscoring its place as a cherished classic in the Ford performance lineup.
Discover the standout features that make the 1966 Ford Shelby I Cabrio a leader in its class
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The Ford Shelby I Cabrio from the 1966 to 1970 production period has a length ranging between 4613 mm and 4740 mm (approximately 181.5 to 186.6 inches or 15.1 to 15.5 feet). This range reflects minor design changes or model variants during its production years. The length is moderate for a 1960s cabriolet sports car, allowing for a sleek, aerodynamic profile consistent with performance-oriented vehicles of that era.
The width of the Ford Shelby I Cabrio spans from 1732 mm to 1811 mm (approximately 68.2 to 71.3 inches, or 5.7 to 5.9 feet). This width provides a stable stance on the road while maintaining a relatively narrow profile suitable for tight urban environments and sporty handling. The variation depends on trim levels and optional features such as wider tires or different fender configurations.
The height of the Ford Shelby I Cabrio ranges between 1300 mm and 1306 mm, which translates to about 51.2 to 51.4 inches (roughly 4.3 feet). This low height contributes to a sporty, aerodynamic design that enhances performance and reduces wind resistance. It also gives the car a classic roadster silhouette beloved by enthusiasts.
The curb weight of the Ford Shelby I Cabrio varies from 1330 kg to 1787 kg, equating to approximately 2932 to 3940 pounds. The variation in weight depends on factors like engine options, additional equipment, and whether the vehicle is equipped with performance upgrades. The weight influences handling characteristics and acceleration capabilities, with lighter models typically offering more agile performance.
A standard single-car garage typically measures around 2.4 meters (8 feet) in width and about 5.5 to 6 meters (18 to 20 feet) in length. The Ford Shelby I Cabrio, with a width ranging from 1.732 to 1.811 meters (5.7 to 5.9 feet) and length between 4.613 to 4.740 meters (15.1 to 15.5 feet), comfortably fits within the dimensions of a typical garage. Its relatively low height (around 1.3 meters or 4.3 feet) also ensures ample vertical clearance.
The 1966-1970 Ford Shelby I Cabrio, produced in limited numbers and developed in close connection with the AC Cobra lineage, typically exhibits dimensions that are marginally larger than earlier Shelby models like the original 1962-1965 Shelby Cobras. The incremental growth in length and width reflects improvements in chassis design and safety considerations. Compared to its predecessors, the Shelby I Cabrio offers a more refined build and slightly increased interior space, although the focus remained on maintaining a compact, lightweight structure for enhanced performance.
When compared to contemporaries such as the Jaguar E-Type Roadster or the Chevrolet Corvette C2, the Ford Shelby I Cabrio fits comfortably within the typical sports cabriolet size range of the 1960s. It is somewhat shorter in length than the Jaguar E-Type, which measures around 4,448 mm (175 inches), but slightly wider than some competitors. Its relatively compact width and low height offer a balance between agile handling and driver comfort, making it competitive in the market segment dominated by lightweight, high-performance, open-top sports cars.
While detailed interior measurements for the Ford Shelby I Cabrio of this era are less commonly documented, its design emphasizes a snug, driver-focused cockpit typical of mid-1960s sports cars. Seating is tailored for two passengers with low-profile seats to complement the low roofline, providing an intimate cabin space. The narrow width and low height contribute to limited headroom and shoulder space, typical of performance-focused cabriolets rather than spacious grand tourers. The design aims for driver engagement rather than maximum interior comfort.
The Ford Shelby I Cabrio's curb weight ranges broadly between 1330 kg (2932 lbs) and 1787 kg (3940 lbs), primarily due to variations in engine configurations, additional equipment, and production updates throughout 1966-1970. Lower weight variants tend to have fewer comfort options and lighter components to maximize performance, while heavier models may include luxury or safety features added later. Potential buyers should consider that the car's performance and handling characteristics can vary significantly depending on the specific build and trim.
The Ford Shelby I Cabrio stands out in the 1960s cabriolet sports car segment due to its distinctive combination of compact dimensions, lightweight construction, and muscular aesthetics inspired by both Ford's and Carroll Shelby's performance philosophy. Its relatively short length and low profile contributed to exceptional handling and aerodynamic efficiency at the time. The cabriolet design incorporates a sleek open-top experience without significantly compromising structural rigidity, offering an engaging driving experience aligned with the raw sports car ethos of the decade.
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