2011 Ford Shelby GT500

2011 Ford Shelby GT500

Ford has introduced a heavily revised version of its Shelby GT500 range-topper for its latest model year. For the latest generation, the SVT and Shelby-engineered muscle coupe gets an all-aluminum version of its existing 5.4-liter V8 for more performance and better efficiency, along with a fresh new look.

2011 Ford Shelby GT500

For the first time, Ford's Shelby GT500 is going to an all-aluminum version of the 5.4-liter supercharged V8 that was in the 2010 GT500. This new engine is good for a 102 lb weight decrease, as well as 10 horsepower bump over the outgoing model -- putting total output at 550 horsepower and 510 lb-ft. of torque.

2011 Ford Shelby GT500

One piece of technology that helped to make this muscle car a little slimmer was the addition of a Plasma Transferred Wire Arc cylinder lining. This Ford-exclusive technology is being applied for the first time, and helps to reduce weight by 8.5 pounds while also reducing friction within the piston rings and cylinder bores by coating the inside of the cylinder bores with special nanoparticles. Ford also says that this new technology will provide for better durability and improved heat transfer.

2011 Ford Shelby GT500

The latest Shelby GT500 will be the first modern Shelby without a gas guzzler tax, thanks to the EPA-projected 15 mpg city, and 23 mpg highway ratings. The engine changes also result in 80 percent torque being available between 1,750 and 6,250 rpm, along with a larger two-row intercooler that delivers 40 percent more cooling capacity.

2011 Ford Shelby GT500

 The GT500 achieved the increase in fuel economy through a combination of weight savings from the use of an all-aluminum engine block, improved body and undercarriage aerodynamics and the addition of Electric Power Assisted Steering.

2011 Ford Shelby GT500

Likely the most significant option change for the GT500 is the SVT Performance Package, giving the GT500 a track-ready performance pack from the factory. This package includes specially developed Goodyear Eagle F1 SuperCar G: 2 tires, a higher rear axle ratio, stiffer springs, lighter wheels and cosmetic changes for both the coupe and convertible. Ford attributes a 3.0-second lap time savings over the outgoing coupe on the 2.3-mile test track. 

Ford has also lowered the GT500 by 11 millimeters up front, and 8 millimeters out back for improved handling. SVT says it added slotted brake dust shields to help improve brake cooling and handling, as well as a new pedal box with is aimed at improving clutch and pedal efforts.

2011 Ford Shelby GT500

The latest model also benefits from a 20 percent decrease in unwanted road noise from strategically placed sound absorption materials, allowing drivers and passengers to focus more intently on the rumbling exhaust.
Another major change for the new Shelby is the option for a glass roof coupe -- the same unit available on the newest model standard Mustang coupes.
The Shelby GT500 also now comes with standard HID headlamps, options MyKey technology, an integrated spotter mirror and fold-down rear headrests for maximum rearward visibility.

2011 Ford Shelby GT500

2011 Ford Shelby GT500