The old GT500 version of the Ford Mustang proved to be a preference among automotive enthusiasts
. Now 2011 marks the return of the 5.4 liter aluminum engine. This car packs an impressive 550 horsepower. The all new GT500 is a lot more lightweight and faster and best of all, the 5.4 liter engine is finally back after all these years. These factors all make up for an tremendous muscle car. Plus this version comes tuned by SVT Performance which added components to the suspension. This new 2011 Ford Shelby also gets lightweight wheels with better performing rubber.
The solid Shelby packs in a massive 3820 lbs which is 100 pounds lighter than the 2010 model. Also the weight is better distributed at 57/43 front to rear weight distribution. This is near Ferrari territory, all coming from a car with a gigantic 5.0 liter V-8 engine under the hood. Let's take a look at what's going on underneath the hood of this beauty. Most significantly the engine block is not made of aluminum instead of iron. The aluminum block is not only lighter, but it can distribute heat easier. Why is heat a factor? Well the 2011 Ford Shelby GT500 has a big supercharger sting on top of the engine. The Shelby also has DOHC which control 32 valves for efficiently moving air and exhaust out of the cylinder. Out back the 550 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque is transferred to the pavement through a 3.37 limited-slip rear end.
A Supercharged Muscle car like the GT500 is expected to be extremely and that's what this car does! The 2011 Ford Shelby GT500 can clip off 0-60 MPH in the low 4-second range. The mile drag is over in 12 seconds flat at 115 MPH. This all from a car costing $50,000. This kind of performance can only be found in cars costing twice as much like a Ferrari or Lamborghini. Believe it or not the car gets good gas mileage. Avoiding the extra gas tax imposed on gas guzzlers, the 2011 Shelby GT500 gets 15 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. These are all great figures considering you have 540 HP available under your foot.
Front and side curtain air bags are standard in the Ford Shelby. This Shelby also received good score on crash safety from not only the NTHSA but also the IIHS. These are the two governing bodies on crash test safety and data in the U.S. One reason for the good score is the addition of traction control which helps to avoid spinouts and stability control which helps to avoid accidents. And a 60 month/60,00 mile warranty is standard.
The 2011 Ford Shelby GT500 is well within reach of Mustang enthusiasts at $50,000. And if the last few years of sales numbers are any indicator; you should see a Shelby GT500 zooming down the freeway. Oh and the sport stripes are phenomenal and gives this car a great sporty look!