Today Ford’s SVT (Special Vehicle Team) revealed the latest version of Shelby GT500 based on the 2011 Mustang GT, and it turns out to be a superbly cool car! Honestly there’s no better word to describe this amazing blend of style, heritage and performance. Not only it packs a massive punch under the bonnet, it has also been on a diet so it’s lighter than ever and features some very fancy technologies.
2011 Shelby GT500 is powered by a 5.4-liter supercharged all-aluminum block V8 which churns out 550 hp and 510 ft.-lb. of torque, 80 percent of which available between 1,750 and 6,250 rpm. Thanks to Ford’s new plasma-coating technology, this engine is 120 pounds lighter than the previous model and as a result of this lightness, the overall weight of the car is kept low, and as a result of that the new GT500 manages to average 23/15 mpg highway/city, which is astonishing for a car with this much power.
Both Coupe and Convertible models come with many upgrades in terms of chassis and suspension for the sake of better handling. They feature Electric Power Assist Steering (EPAS) and AdvanceTrac stability control as standard, a new optional SVT Performance Package is also available which according to Ford, gives you racetrack-ready driving dynamics!
The optional package also offers unique styling, lighter wheels, a higher rear axle ratio and stiffer springs, and it is available on both the convertible and coupe. Data show the 2011 coupe with the SVT Performance Package is 3.0 seconds faster per lap than the 2010 Shelby GT500 on a 2.3-mile test track.
The Shelby GT500 convertible model features enhanced structural rigidity, with lateral stiffness improved by 12 percent versus the 2010 model. The V-brace has been stiffened by adding gussets. The secondary crossmember also has been stiffened, while a front Z-brace has been added, connecting primary and secondary crossmembers. A-pillar stiffening foam has been added to increase rigidity.
Like the normal Mustangs, the Shelby models also have a lot of convenience features and luxury stuff like the optional glass roof, Standard HID (high-intensity discharge) headlamps, MyKey™ programmable vehicle key, Integrated spotter mirror, Fold-down rear headrests and …
“The SVT team continues to push the performance standards of the Shelby to even higher levels and better refinement,” said Jost Capito, director of global performance vehicles and motorsports business development. “All the changes we made reflect a desire for even better handling and outstanding driving dynamics – from weight savings to improved balance.”
