Original owner Bill Moir purchased 003 from Ed Leslie Motors in Monterey, California, in June 1965, and actually owned it on two separate occasions prior to the early '70s. Through numerous subsequent owners, the car has vacillated between street and race trim several times, the latest iteration obviously being of the competition persuasion. More recent owners Don Day and Doug Richmond campaigned the car amongst the vintage ranks throughout the '80s and '90s until current owner Dave Lennartz purchased it in 1999. Lennartz initially enjoyed 003 in limited open-track environs; many might say as it should be, although his emphasis is evolving even as we speak. Dick Roush and other fellow Northwest Shelby enthusiasts have been lobbying Lennartz to return the car to as-built prototype condition in deference to its unique status among the marque. Initially unconvinced it would happen under his watch, Lennartz is now moving in that direction, acquiring the long-lost parts that the street prototype wore when new. In the meantime, the car continues to represent its competition heritage, a form that certainly holds no shame in our eyes.
SFM5S003 is currently powered by what has perhaps become an atypical small-block Ford. No aluminum heads, no stroker short-block, and no roller camshaft, just vintage speed parts through and through. Below the R-model-style valve covers, Holley four-barrel, and Cobra-lettered aluminum intake, an .030-over Hi-Po block holds 293 ci of rumbling solid-lifter power. While undoubtedly less than a current vintage-racing front runner, Lennartz reports the engine feels plenty strong when pushed. Incidentally, the original engine and transmission for 003 have been missing for years and are items Lennartz would love to reunite with the chassis if they could ever be found. Ditto for various other one-off prototype pieces.
Regardless of configuration, seeing the first Shelby Mustang ever constructed is a special treat and a trip down memory lane. It was the beginning of an ultra-special breed, a breed that continues to grow in admiration and respect to this day and likely well into the future. Frankly, it's an honor to be able to share such a significant piece of history with our international audience, and we look forward to seeing what changes are in store for 003 as the years roll on. From the sound of things, it should only get better!