FORD
More venom for Mustang
- Published: 9/01/2009 at 12:00 AM
- Newspaper section: Motoring
After launching the heavily revised model late last year, Ford takes the wraps off the go-faster Shelby GT500
- Ford's Special Vehicle Team (SVT) has reincarnated the Shelby GT500 high-performance version of the Mustang as seen in this first official pictures. It makes its world debut at the Detroit motor show next week.
- The GT500 comes with a 540hp 5.4-litre V8. No performance figures were disclosed, although estimates put the 0-100kph time in no more than five seconds.
- In an effort to boost fuel economy without harming performance, the SVT boys have modified the six-speed manual gearbox with special components and gearings over the standard 'box used in the 315hp 4.6-litre V8.
- Apart from suspension mods to cope with the increased power, the GT500 comes with 19-inch wheels shod with Goodyear F1 Supercar tyres for optimum grip. Standard is selectable chassis settings.
Interior gets bespoke black/white colours.
- The most distinctive exterior feature is the big, gaping front end of the GT500. Other additions include hood extractor, front splitter and spoiler. Cobra emblems have also been strewn around the car, inside and out.
- The GT500 now draws the "pony car" war level. The other two archrivals are the Chevrolet Camaro LS7 armed with a 550hp V8 and Dodge Challenger SRT-8 equipped with a 425hp V8.
ONE LAST THING: Although still a concept, Dodge has a card up its sleeve for the Challenger: SRT10 bragging a class-busting 600hp 8.4-litre V10.
- WIDE & CLEAR
- Tweaks for 207
- Seven becomes sporty
- PPVs come under scrutiny
- Land Rover Defender 90 SW
- TIME TO DOWNSIZE
- ROGUE APPEAL
- Hybrid 'eclipses' diesel
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