Video: Shelby's 1000+ hp GT500 prototype is real

A few weeks ago we caught wind of a possible new Shelby prototype, a twin turbo powered GT500 that would exceed 1000 horsepower. And now we have a real, live prototype to show you.

Nicknamed "Code Red," this uber powerful GT500 was created in a collaboration between Shelby American and Nelson Racing Engines. The (obviously) modified 5.4 liter has been breathed on courtesy of twin 61mm Turbonetics turbochargers, a duel fuel setup (to run race gas as well as pump gas), and an electronic boost controller.

Other goodies include 14 inch Baer brakes, adjustable suspension, 10 point roll cage, 9 inch rear, and an estimated $100,000 price tag. There's no word on possible production of Code Red, so for now we can only dream and admire the glorious sounds it makes in the video below.

Video: 2011 Shelby GT500, now with better sound!

A few days back we had a video featuring a 2011 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 making the rounds at Virginia International Raceway, besting the '10 model's time by 9 seconds. While the video was nice, the sound wasn't the greatest. To correct this travesty, this new video has enough good noise to make up for the first.

Video: 2011 Ford Mustang GT500 runs VIR

We already know that the 2011 Mustang V6 and GT handily beat down the previous models in pretty much every performance test, so it should come as no surprise that the new GT500 is poised to do the same thing. This video, released by Ford, shows just that.

Shot at Virginia International Speedway, the video shows a 2011 GT500 being put through its paces and obliterating the previous GT500's total time by 9 seconds to the tune of 2:58.5.

Video: Hear the 2011 Ford Shelby GT500's aluminum soundtrack

In case you missed all the details of the 2011 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 and it's reveal yesterday, you can find it here.

And if you are curious as to what the new car sounds like, we have two spankin' new videos for you to check out, one of the coupe and one featuring the convertible. Press play to hear all that glorious supercharged sound.

2011 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 (officially) revealed!

Details surrounding the updated 2011 Ford Shelby GT500 have been one of the worst kept secrets in Detroit. Pretty much every detail about the car has been leaked out over the course of the last few weeks. This does not, however, make the car any less amazing and drool worthy.

At the heart of the new GT500 is an aluminum block, which (combined with other weight saving features) shaves a hefty 120 pounds off the already heafty car's nose. The SVT team has opted not to use an aluminum block until they could make one as strong as an iron block, and now they have. The block is created using a Plasma Transferred Wire Arc (PTWA) process which Ford engineers developed to lower weight as well as improve efficiency and power output. Power is up 10hp to a total of 550 hp and the same 510 lb-ft of torque as the previous model.

The rest of the weight loss can be attributed to new, lighter wheels that save 4.7 pounds each in the 19 inch fronts, and 2.8 pounds in the 20 inch rears. Rear gears are more aggressive at 3.73:1. These wheels are wrapped in the latest generation Goodyear F1 supercar tires. The suspension has also been tweaked, with 20.5 percent stiffer front springs and 9.5 percent tighter rear springs.

Also for 2011, the convertible version of the GT500 has been heavily tweaked. The main complaint about the previous ragtop version was that it was more of a cruiser that lacked structural integrity. For 2011, much effort has been put into making the convertible more rigid and a better performer.

While straight line performance has jumped up a tenth of a second in the quarter mile, fuel economy has also improved. The new GT500 is up 1 mpg to 15 city and 23 highway, which seems slightly insignificant until you realize that it is enough to take the dreaded gas guzzler tax away from the previous car.

The new, tweaked and improved 2011 GT500 will go into production this spring with an on sale date in the summer. Check out the press release below for all the details.

2011 FORD SHELBY GT500 GOES LIGHTWEIGHT WITH ALUMINUM ENGINE, OFFERS ULTIMATE IN HANDLING

With 550 horsepower and 510 ft.-lb. of torque, Ford's Special Vehicle Team (SVT) delivers the new Shelby GT500® with a 10 horsepower increase; an all-new 5.4-liter all-aluminum engine is 102 pounds lighter than the previous cast-iron engine and uses Ford-patented plasma-coating technology

For 2011, Shelby GT500 offers EPA-projected improved fuel economy in city and highway from 2010, eliminating the gas guzzler tax

The addition of Electric Power Assist Steering (EPAS), a new optional SVT Performance Package, enhanced convertible rigidity and a lowered ride height contribute to improved driving dynamics and handling

DEARBORN, Mich., Feb. 8, 2010 – Ford's Special Vehicle Team (SVT) engineers are taking high performance to a new level with the 2011 Ford Shelby GT500, resulting in a car that has an all-new aluminum-block engine, even better driving dynamics and handling, improved fuel economy and more horsepower than ever.

"The SVT team continues to push the performance standards of the Shelby to even higher levels and better refinement," said Jost Capito, director of global performance vehicles and motorsports business development. "All the changes we made reflect a desire for even better handling and outstanding driving dynamics – from weight savings to improved balance."

Weight savings, new technology headline all-new aluminum engine
The 2011 Shelby GT500 is powered by an all-new aluminum-block 5.4-liter supercharged V-8 engine, which produces 550 horsepower and 510 ft.-lb. of torque, a 10 horsepower increase versus the 2010 model. The engine also is 102 pounds lighter than its predecessor, delivering a better power-to-weight ratio, improved fuel economy, acceleration, handling and steering precision.

"Cutting weight to improve performance is a tradition among hot rodders," said Carroll Shelby, founder of Shelby American. "It might not be as sexy as adding more horsepower or bigger brakes, but shaving pounds off of a car is the single smartest move you can make."

The new engine uses state-of-the-art Plasma Transferred Wire Arc (PTWA) liner coating, a process that applies a 150-micron composite coating that contains nanoparticles on the internal surfaces of engine cylinder bores, replacing cast-iron liners typically used in aluminum engine blocks. The Intellectual Property Owners Education Foundation honored the inventors of the Ford-patented PTWA technology with the 2009 National Inventor of the Year Award.

This is the first Ford application of the technology, and it offers improved overall performance and durability, along with functional benefits of reduced friction between piston rings and cylinder bores, improved heat transfer due to increased surface contact area and a weight savings of 8.5 pounds compared to a typical steel-sleeved aluminum block. A mechanical roughening process provides higher material adhesion for the spray coating.

The PTWA process uses air and electricity to create a plasma jet of 35,000 degrees Fahrenheit, which melts a steel wire that is fed into a rotating spray gun. Using atomized air, the melted steel wire is blown into a specially machined surface of the aluminum-block engine cylinder bore. In the process of melting and applying the metal to the surface, the steel wire oxidizes, creating a composite coating consisting of both iron and iron oxide.

"Ford's Global Research and Advanced Engineering looks to all industries for advanced technologies – and this comes from aerospace. It's the same technology you would find on aircraft engines," said Glenn Jorgensen, SVT powertrain team leader. "We've invented a coating as a replacement for cast iron that delivers improvements in power and performance and fuel economy."

The new engine also has its roots in the iconic Ford GT. The new 5.4-liter engine is an evolution of the GT engine, with improved block structure through the use of a unique bulkhead chilled process and six-bolt billet main bearing caps. This new advanced engine will exceed Ford GT performance with its traditional supercharger technology.

"The Ford GT has solidified itself as one of the world's most coveted supercars. To make improvements to the engine from this supercar and make it available in a Mustang is impressive," said Kerry Baldori, SVT global performance vehicle chief functional engineer. "The aluminum-block engine is robust and strong enough to produce the performance numbers and durability our customers demand."

Increased power and increased fuel economy
The 2011 Shelby GT500 combines power and fuel economy into one impressive package. This 2011 Shelby GT500 will be the first modern Shelby without the gas guzzler tax, thanks to the EPA-projected 23 mpg highway and 15 mpg city it will deliver. This is up from 22 mpg highway and 14 mpg city for the 2010 model.

The 5.4-liter V-8 achieves 80 percent of its torque between 1,750 and 6,250 rpm, giving the car a higher level of performance feel. A larger two-row intercooler for the supercharger system has 40 percent more cooling capacity, helping to make power more consistent in higher ambient conditions.

Fuel economy gains come from the new 102-pound-lighter aluminum-block engine, EPAS and detailed aerodynamic changes to the underside of the vehicle.

Dramatic performance upgrades
New for 2011 is an SVT Performance Package for enthusiasts who want even more performance out of their Shelby GT500 for racetrack-ready driving dynamics. Complete with all-new Goodyear Eagle® F1 SuperCar G: 2 tires that SVT engineers worked directly with Goodyear to develop, the car is ready to race. The tires offer superb dry traction and precise handling, complete with a race-inspired high-performance tread compound.

The optional package also offers unique styling, lighter wheels, a higher rear axle ratio and stiffer springs, and it is available on both the convertible and coupe. Data show the 2011 coupe with the SVT Performance Package is 3.0 seconds faster per lap than the 2010 Shelby GT500 on a 2.3-mile test track.

Carried over from 2010, the 2011 Shelby GT500 features AdvanceTrac®, Ford's stability control system with several options for performance. Calibration of the system for the 2011 Shelby has been uniquely tailored to each vehicle configuration (base or optional) to optimize the performance.

SVT has worked very hard to make EPAS better than the outgoing hydraulic steering system. The addition of EPAS makes for a dramatic contribution to Shelby GT500 driving dynamics, with improved torque build-up and road feel that delivers quicker and more precise steering, increased effort on the racetrack or winding roads, and reduced effort in low-speed parking maneuvers.

Slotted brake dust shields were added to improve brake cooling and handling, and a new pedal box improves clutch and pedal efforts even more. A lowered ride height of 11 millimeters in front and 8 millimeters at the rear provides a sportier attitude and improved handling.

More engine sound, less road noise For 2011, Shelby GT500 also benefits from NVH (noise, vibration and harshness) improvements. Overall road noise is reduced by 20 percent versus the 2010 Shelby. Actions undertaken to achieve this improvement include additional sound-deadening material on either side of the instrument panel, additional sound absorption behind interior trim panels, and a rear wheel arch liner to reduce noise on gravel or wet surfaces – all resulting in the driver hearing more exhaust and engine sound and less road and air noise.

The Shelby GT500 convertible model features enhanced structural rigidity, with lateral stiffness improved by 12 percent versus the 2010 model. The V-brace has been stiffened by adding gussets. The secondary crossmember also has been stiffened, while a front Z-brace has been added, connecting primary and secondary crossmembers. A-pillar stiffening foam has been added to increase rigidity.

The structural improvements to the convertible gave SVT the opportunity to be more sport-oriented in the chassis tuning, without trading comfort. Along with the chassis and structural improvements, the 2011 model also will get standard 19-inch aluminum wheels.

"One of the biggest changes for this Shelby is that the convertible acts and feels like a coupe," said Jamal Hameedi, SVT chief nameplate engineer. "Before, they had a very different character, and the convertible is taking a big step in the sportiness and handling precision area, without degrading the ride."

GT500 gets a new exhaust for 2011, roaring with an even more aggressive sound than the 2010 model. The 2.75-inch exhaust with all-new tuning helped to deliver the additional 10 horsepower.

Added convenience content
New for 2011 is an optional glass roof, providing customers with a less expensive option than a convertible and without compromising the coupe's versatility, headroom or climate-controlled environment.

The specially formulated glass also protects interior fabric material from solar radiation deterioration and discoloration by reducing solar light transmittance. To help improve acoustics and interior quietness, the glass features a layer of vinyl that reduces noise, vibration and harshness.

Other new convenience technologies include:
Standard HID (high-intensity discharge) headlamps
MyKey™ programmable vehicle key
Integrated spotter mirror
Fold-down rear headrests
"Whether you're looking to take the GT500 out on the streets or have some fun at the track," Capito says, "this car will satisfy the most discriminating performance driving enthusiasts."

Video: 2011 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 with SVT Performance Package

The latest Ford Racing email newsletter reveals some interesting tidbits, including the confirmation that the 2011 GT500 will be revealed on Monday, February 8th. The new Shelby will be shown on a live webcast at 1:30pm eastern time.

As we learned from the recently leaked order guide, the newest Shelby will have some nice new options. They include a new aluminum block, optional glass roof, and the new SVT Performance Package. The hoodstripes for the SVT car are skinny compared to the regular GT500, and they also get a 3:73 rear. Stay tuned for much, much more info on Monday afternoon.

Classic Recreations reveals specs of it's Shelby GT500CR Mustang

At SEMA Classic Recreations announced that it had reached a deal with Shelby to build a continuation version of the legendary Shelby Mustang GT500. Not much was know at that time regarding any sort of specifications of the car.

Thanks to the latest press release below, we have much more information on the GT500CR Mustang. Three models will be offered: the Intro, Performance, and Venom.

The Intro comes standard with a 427ci V8, 150hp nitrous kit, upgraded suspension and steering, Tremec 5 speed tranny, and Baer brakes.

The Performance model ups the ante with better seats, bigger wheels, and a coilover suspension.

The top of the line Venom sports an intercooled supercharger that nets the car 780hp, along with lots of other performance upgrades.

PRESS RELEASE:

Custom coachbuilder Classic Recreations has released preliminary technical details and package specifications for the G.T.500CR, a 1967 Shelby continuation vehicle that was announced opening day of the annual SEMA Show in Las Vegas. All three G.T.500CR models will feature a hand-built 427 cubic inch (7.0L) engine, model specific bodywork, custom paint and hand-stitched upholstery. Every car will have an official Shelby serial number, badges and will be included in the official Shelby Worldwide Registry.

The G.T.500CR will be offered in three models. The "Intro" model is powered by a 545hp fuel injected 427, built in-house at Classic Recreations using top-shelf performance parts and Mass Flo digital fuel injection. A 150hp NOS nitrous oxide system provides extra power when needed. Upgraded suspension and power rack and pinion steering modernize the car's handling, and a Tremec five speed manual transmission sends the power to ZR rated tires on 17x8" Shelby 427 wheels over front and rear cross drilled Shelby/Baer brakes. Inside, the driver will find a custom stereo, climate control and Carroll Shelby Signature seats, gauges, console, and floormats. The exterior is available in five different color schemes and features authentic Shelby Performance parts, such as lights, emblems and a real Shelby Le Mans racing gas cap.

The "Performance" model has all the features of the "Intro", including the 150HP Nitrous system, rack and pinion steering and 160mph speedometer, plus Carroll Shelby Scat Rally series 1000 seats, larger 17x9.5 rear wheels and a Total Control front and rear coilover suspension system for modern sports car handling.

The "Venom" maintains the authentic Shelby look of the "Intro" and "Performance" models, but boosts horsepower to 780hp with an F1-R Intercooled ProCharger supercharged engine. The interior is upgraded with a 200mph speedometer and racing-style bucket seats. The "Venom" also boasts suspension and chassis upgrades as well as 17x11" rear wheels and wider ultra high performance Goodyear tires. Model line specifications and details are subject to change.

SEMA 2009: Ford shows off pair of GT500s

Ford was really showing off in their booth this year with this pair of GT500s, both old and new. A 1967 and 2010 model sat side by side, perfectly matched with their Wimbledon White paint with Guardsman Blue stripes.

The '67 is a real original, number 3139 in the Shelby Registry. The '10 is a one off, dubbed the Patriot Edition, and features a host of upgrades to make it more closely resemble it's predecessor.

The big news, however, is that this beautiful duo can be yours. The two cars are being raffled off to raise money for the Healing Heroes Network, a charity that benefits injured Veterans. Go here if you are interested.

2010 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 dyno tested, lives up to it's 540hp rating

It's no surprise that the new GT500 is fast, but it's also no surprise that someone was going to throw the thing on a dyno to confirm rated horsepower. It's a practice that's been going on for many many years, back to when manufacturers underrated power numbers to keep insurance cheap for car buyers.

And some things never change. 5.0 Mustang & Super Fords strapped a 2010 Shelby GT500down and the results were better than expected. The Mustang belted out a stout 478.53 horsepower and 470.43 lb-ft torque at the rear wheels on a hot and muggy day in Florida. The traditional calculation of allowing a 15% loss of power through the drivetrain puts flywheel horsepower at over 560hp.

Lead designer shares early sketches of the Mustang Shelby GT500

Keeping pace with the flurry of activity surrounding the debut of the 2010 Ford Mustang has left out some interesting details surrounding it's design and what might have been.

Lead Designer Rob Jensen keeps his very own blog at www.RobJensenDesign.com, and he recently sat down with the folks at www.idsketching.com for an interview. He revealed some nice details about the current Mustang's design process, and offered some good advice to those trying to get in the industry.

The best part is that he handed over some early sketches of the GT500 that shows the gestation that the new pony car went before they settled on the final design.