A rare piece of turbocharged American muscle history is up for auction, as an immaculate 1987 Dodge Shelby Charger GLHS (#698 of 1,000) takes the spotlight on BringATrailer.com. This limited-edition hatchback, developed by Carroll Shelby in collaboration with Dodge, is one of the few turbocharged Chargers produced, making it a fitting predecessor to Dodge’s upcoming 2025 Charger SIXPACK.
Originally sold at Albany Dodge Inc. in New York, this GLHS has also spent time in Ohio and Pennsylvania before being acquired by the current selling dealer in 2014. It’s finished in the distinctive Shelby GLHS black with contrasting gray vinyl and cloth upholstery. The turbocharged 2.2-liter inline-four engine pairs with a five-speed manual transmission, delivering a factory-rated 175 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque to the front wheels. Known for its spirited drive, this GLHS packs plenty of punch in a compact package, offering an authentic 1980s performance experience.
Exterior and Design Features –
Refinished in black under prior ownership, this GLHS features Shelby-specific styling cues including a front air dam, a power-bulge hood, and a hatch spoiler. While the car’s exterior sports fresh GLHS decals, there are signs of wear on the sunroof trim and some minor blemishes, which are detailed in the photo gallery on the auction listing. True to its heritage, this model boasts dual exhaust outlets, a signature feature of Shelby’s performance-focused upgrades.
Performance and Handling –
The GLHS rides on Shelby Centurion 15-inch alloy wheels, wrapped in 205/50 Dunlop Direzza DZ102 tires, and is fitted with adjustable Koni dampers and front disc brakes—factory equipment chosen by Shelby to enhance handling. This setup ensures the GLHS can handle sharp corners and spirited driving while maintaining a firm grip on the road.
Interior and Amenities –
Inside, the light gray vinyl seats with dark gray cloth inserts add a vintage touch, with embroidered Shelby logos accentuating the front headrests and rear outboard seatbacks. The car includes practical features like air conditioning, a rear window defroster, and crank windows. While the original cassette stereo provides a nostalgic throwback, the car does have some minor interior wear, with missing front headrest seat belt guides.
A special Carroll Shelby plaque on the dashboard, marking this car as #698 in the production run, serves as a reminder of its limited-edition status and pedigree. The four-spoke steering wheel frames a speedometer, which was originally limited to 85 mph but has been enhanced with additional decals that extend the readout up to 125 mph. The gauge cluster also includes a tachometer with a built-in fuel gauge, adding a functional yet stylish touch to the driver’s view.
Powertrain and Underbody Condition –
Under the hood, the 2.2-liter turbocharged inline-four provides an impressive 175 horsepower, channeled through a five-speed manual transaxle. Although the GLHS was front-wheel drive, its performance capabilities and turbo boost deliver an exhilarating experience behind the wheel. However, some corrosion on underbody components is noted in the listing, which is typical for a car of this age.
The Carfax report traces the car’s history back to Ohio and Pennsylvania, with its earliest recorded entry in July 2004. It’s been well-preserved over the years, with only approximately 10,000 miles on the odometer, 50 of which were added by the current selling dealer.
For those seeking a unique piece of Dodge and Shelby history, this 1987 Dodge Shelby Charger GLHS combines rare performance, turbocharged power, and Carroll Shelby’s legendary touch. With its limited production run and vintage appeal, it’s a must-see for enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Bidding for this turbocharged classic ends Thursday, November 14 at 2:25 p.m. EDT.
1987 Dodge Shelby Charger GLHS Image Gallery:
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