With the introduction of the new 2013 Shelby GT500 Ford put its foot on the Camaro ZL1’s throat, and they are reluctant to take it off.

No. They are pushing it even harder by the looks of things. Unconfirmed reports from the Motorcity suggest Ford will be unveiling the convertible version of the mighty GT500 at the upcoming Detroit Motor Show.

It is fair to say the coupe GT500 kinda stole the thunder of Camaro ZL1 when it was revealed. They Camaro might have looked cooler, but there were no ways pass the Ford’s massive 650-hp output. Now the convertible has a similar mission to drive people away from GM’s stand.

A few weeks ago we looked rather deeply into both of these cars, coupe versions, to see what’s what. But pretty much none of those arguments hold water when we’re talking about the convertible models of the GT500 and the ZL1. It’s a completely different ball game. I mean there will be question marks over a 650-hp drop-top’s ride and handling. The ZL1 Convertible is in the same boat, but it has a more advanced chassis, and in fairness it’s a better-engineered car all-around.

It’s getting hot this muscle car battle.