Hennessey Cranks Shelby GT500 up to 1,000 Horsepower

Published on May 26, 2021 in News by Guillaume Rivard

In a surprise to no one, Texas-based tuner Hennessey had wicked plans for the almighty and ferocious Ford Mustang Shelby GT500. Because 760 horsepower and 625 pound-feet of torque are clearly not enough, right?

Meet the new Hennessey Venom 1000. This upgrade package available for 2020 and 2021 Shelby GT500 models cranks output up to 1,000 horsepower at 7,000 rpm and torque to 850 pound-feet at 4,800 rpm. There’s one caveat: you need E85 fuel to get that first number, otherwise you’ll be left with “just” 900 horsepower using 93-octane premium gas.

The supercharged 5.2-litre V8 receives a number of modifications including an upgraded supercharger hub assembly, drive pulley and belt, upgraded fuel lines and injectors, high-flow air induction and air/oil separator system, just to name a few.

The engine and transmission calibration has been revised, as well, while Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S tires put the extra power to the ground.

The exterior design of the Venom 1000 is a carbon copy of the Shelby GT500 save for a few badges. Of course, a serialized plaque is included as production of this car will be extremely limited.

Hennessey set up a duel with the 641-horsepower 2021 Porsche 911 Turbo S for testing and evaluation purposes. Unfortunately, the video below shows no standing start (the German sports car is much quicker from 0-100 km/h), but only a rolling race from around 80 km/h. It’s still definitely worth watching.