Timeline
- Jan '67: Shelby experimental coupe "Little Red" built from a '67 Mustang coupe
- Sep '67: Regular 1968 Mustang production begins.
- Oct '67: Lee Grey visits Shelby American to borrow Little Red for one week. Lee Grey wants to buy parts from A.0. Smith to modify Mustang coupes at L.A. area dealerships.
- Oct '67: Lee Grey meets with Lee Iaccoca to discuss a Mustang for California. Little Red is there to illustrate his idea.
- Dec-Jan '68: Shelby Automotive requested by Ford to develop "California Special." California Mustang gets approval and marketing money (initial order for 6,180 GT/CS parts sets).
- February 17, '68: Production of GT/CS cars at Ford begins, a few coupes dated as early as December 28, 1967 used.
- February 22, '68: First dealer advertising of GT/CS availability, Coberly Ford, L.A.
- March 15-20, '68: Heavy production of GT/CS at San Jose (many special order cars).
- Apr '68: Shelby Automotive's second coupe prototype "Green Hornet" built from a GT/CS bought by Shelby.
- Mid Apr '68: GT/CS production begins for other sales districts in the west.
- Jun-Jul '68: High Country Specials produced for Denver District.
- July 30, '68: End of GT/CS (HCS) production.
- Sep '68: 1969 model year Mustang production begins.
Read more about this topic: California Special Mustang