Mustang Shelby GT500: The affordable racecar

When you work as an automobile journalist, you get the chance to drive quite a lot of powerful cars. However, in this age of political correctness, most cars now feature a number of electronic systems that ensure your safety but also reduce your control over the vehicle and, by the same token, put a damper on driving pleasure too. What it boils down to is that a lot of today’s vehicles won’t let you fishtail, all in the name of safety.

Thankfully, there is still a handful of cars out there that require a certain level of driver dexterity and make you feel like you’re really driving the vehicle. The Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 is not only one heckuva fast car for its price, but its lack of over-protective electronic systems makes for a high-performance car that commands your respect at all times. And wait, there’s more. This breed is an endangered species, so thumbs up to Ford for still offering this kind of machine.

Mustang has come out with several changes for 2011. The base version comes equipped with a 305-hp V6, which offers more than commendable performances. Meanwhile the Mustang GT gets a 5.0-L V8. With 412 horses, this car should quench your thirst for power. And if it doesn’t, there’s the GT500!

The Shelby

As the king of the Mustang line-up, the Shelby GT500 became Ford’s supercar when the manufacturer pulled the Ford GT off the market a few years back. Offered for less than $60,000, it features a supercharged V8 that pumps out 550 hp – that’s 50 more ponies than a Porsche 911 Turbo for one third the cost! Not bad! The price-to-power ratio for this car is truly exceptional.

Only one version of the Mustang Shelby GT500 is available, and there are a limited number of options. You just have to decide if you want the increased power of the coupe or the thrill of a convertible. Purists will surely want the coupe, which is lighter and more rigid. On the outside, the GT500 has several features that enhance its exclusivity. Ford added several details to soup up the style and let owners show off the fact that they’re not driving the base Mustang. The GT500 is available in various exclusive colours with white Le Mans stripes across the body. The distinctive front grille bears a cobra, while the hood incorporates some extra-large air intakes. A distinct spoiler and exclusive wheels complete the vehicle’s exterior looks. Overall, it stands out while remaining in good taste.

The same can be said about the interior, where a few details remind you that you’re in an exceptional version. But not much has changed on the inside for 2011. The fit and trim has definitely improved over the generations, but the presentation remains quite serious. Actually, attention to detail is perhaps what the Mustang seems to lack. That said, there seems to be a marked improvement in terms of soundproofing. Disappointments include lack of a telescopic steering wheel and the fact that the back seats are not very practical.

On the road

For 2011, the Shelby boasts more power thanks to its 5.4-L supercharged V8 that produces 550 horses (10 more than last year). This engine, which is directly derived from Ford Racing, is now 100+ lbs. lighter thanks to is new aluminium block. However, its new intercooler with 40% greater capacity is probably the main reason for the increased power. Basically, the Shelby has been given all of Ford’s finest high-performance features.

Reading over the technical specs really whets your appetite for taking this vehicle out on the road to test its talents. Then, hearing the sound of the engine start makes you salivate and hunger for more. Put your foot into the accelerator, and the 510 lbs-ft of torque produced by the engine will literally nail you to your seat. And yet, the Shelby’s best virtue isn’t its accelerations. Its sharp steering lets you take corners with precision while the brakes are more than efficient.

Of course, as soon as the Mustang name is mentioned, you think of a rigid axle suspension, which seems to be a controversial topic among some people. But according to Ford engineers, a recent poll of their clients confirmed that purists still prefer this configuration, which delivers better performances on the track. On the highway, it makes the ride a little bumpy on turns, especially when the pavement is less than smooth.

Overall, the Shelby is not as agile on the circuit as the Porsche 911 Turbo, but at one third the cost, it’s still a really fast car. It lets the driver take the reins and commands your respect at all times.