As some of you may remember a few days ago MotorTrend magazine tested the new Shelby GT500 and arrived at a top speed of 196 mph. While that is very impressive for a Mustang, it wasn’t what Ford claims the car will do, which is 200 mph. Now, MT guys did make it clear their testing condition was far form ideal due to the wind and heat and elevation, but still, Ford was apparently worried people may think they lied. So they took a GT500 down to Nardo test track in Italy and clocked 200 mph. That settles it.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DTFPL3sD00o

For those who have forgotten, the new Shelby GT500 is powered by a supercharged V8 engine that makes 662 horsepower. By the time that power reaches the rear tires it’s more like 600, but that is still plenty, and of course enough to give the car its mind-boggling top speed. What’s more amazing is that this engine is gas-guzzler tax exempt! Quite an achievement for Ford and SVT team then.