2008 Shelby Mustang GT500

FORD SHELBY GT500 COMBINES UNMISTAKABLE COBRA STYLING AND POWER WITH NEW FEATURES FOR 2008

• Performance Inspiration: Carroll Shelby and the Ford Special Vehicle Team enter their second model year of building a modern successor to the famous 1967-70 Shelby GT500
• Performance Hardware: The GT500 includes a supercharged 500-horsepower 5.4-liter V-8, 6-speed manual transmission, race-tuned suspension and four-piston Brembo brakes




• Safe and Secure: New front driver- and passenger-seat side air bags provide side-impact head protection as well as rollover protection

• Lighting up 2008: New Ambient Interior Lighting feature is now available, plus optional HID Headlamps. Also new is Vapor Metallic exterior paint, replacing Tungsten Grey

What happens when a performance legend from Dearborn reunites with a performance legend from Texas? You get the Ford Shelby GT500. The collaboration between Shelby and Ford's Special Vehicle Team (SVT) continues to yield an instant collector's Mustang that delivers 500 horsepower from its supercharged 5.4-liter V-8.



Serving as touchstone and inspirational leader for both the concept and the production versions of the modern GT500, Carroll Shelby was impressed by what SVT engineers had accomplished.

'It's one thing to put 450 horsepower in an exotic supercar,' said Shelby. 'It's another to put that much power in something as affordable as a Mustang. The fact that they not only met their goal but pushed on to 500 horsepower is a remarkable achievement.'

Shelby knows something about creating modern supercars. He served as a senior advisor on the SVT Engineering team that developed and built the 550-horsepower Ford GT.

The Ford Shelby GT500 is built alongside other production Mustangs at the Ford-Mazda joint venture assembly facility, AutoAlliance International (AAI), in Flat Rock, Mich.

Power Play
As expected of anything with Shelby's name on it, the heart of the car is what's under the hood. The Ford Shelby GT500's supercharged 5.4-liter, 32-valve V-8 evolves from Ford's experience with expanding its modular engine family. Output is a brawny 500 horsepower.

• The engine is force-fed an air-and-fuel mixture via a 'Roots-type' supercharger providing 8.5 pounds per square inch of boost.

• The GT500 uses a cast-iron engine block. It borrows from the Ford GT program its aluminum, four-valve cylinder heads, piston rings and bearings, which add a high level of performance and durability
'Powered by SVT' camshaft covers add the finishing touch to the engine bay

• Delivering the power to the pavement is a 6-speed manual gearbox with evenly spaced gearing. This gives a rewarding driving experience throughout the engine's broad torque curve. The heavy-duty transmission has proven itself a perfect match to Mustangs in both road and track environments, including the race-winning Mustang FR500C

Power Requires Control
The Ford Shelby GT500 continues a legacy of all-around performance that made the original Shelby Mustang a world-class racer on tracks and road courses around the world. Posted on conceptcarz.com.

The GT500 starts with the solid underpinnings of the Mustang GT. Mustang was designed from the beginning with performance derivatives in mind, providing an exceptionally rigid, well-engineered platform for GT500 chassis engineers.

SVT engineers retuned and upgraded key chassis components for the GT500. Improvements such as revised shocks, spring rates and upgraded stabilizer bars help the Ford Shelby GT500 stop and turn with the same authority as it goes.

The Ford Shelby GT500 features a MacPherson strut independent front suspension with Reverse-L lower control arms, and a solid-axle, three-link rear suspension with coil springs and a Panhard rod for precise control of the rear axle.

Engineers employed some of the biggest brakes in the business for the GT500. Four-piston Brembo calipers are fitted to 14-inch Brembo vented rotors up front, and 11.8-inch vented discs in the rear continue SVT's tradition of great-braking Mustangs. Secure footing is provided by 255/45ZR high-performance tires in front and 285/40ZR high-performance tires in back. Wheels are 18 by 9.5 inches.

Únmistakable Cobra Styling
One glance at the Shelby GT500 shows this is not a typical Mustang. A sinister-looking front-end design includes wide upper and lower fascia openings with a functional lower air splitter. The upper grille opening sports the famous Cobra logo, floating off-center in place of a centered galloping pony found on other Mustangs. On either side, slanting headlamp openings add to the dramatic front appearance. New for 2008, optional High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps will be available for added visibility and safety.

The bulging hood has a set of matching heat extractors protruding near the leading edge, combining to provide improved airflow and aerodynamics. As air passes over the hood, hot air from the engine compartment is drawn out through venting attached to the extractors.

'The restrained, performance-oriented SVT design theme has become instantly recognizable to enthusiasts without the use of overly brash styling cues,' said Doug Gaffka, Mustang chief designer. 'The GT500 takes a huge leap forward by combining the modern Mustang muscle car with the classic Shelby performance look.'

The Mustang design team drew inspiration from classic 1967-68 Mustangs, the models that transformed the mild-mannered pony car into a true muscle car with attitude.

The production Ford Shelby GT500 Coupe is punctuated by the classic Le Mans-style white overbody stripes that race along the top from nose to tail. The stripes recall the Shelby Mustangs that marked another important 1960s Mustang transition, when Ford put it on track to becoming a racing legend. The GT500 nomenclature is prominent in the lower bodyside racing stripe, another cue from the classic Shelby Mustangs of yesteryear.

In a touch also borrowed from the GT500's past, no Le Mans overbody stripes will be seen on the 2008 Ford Shelby GT500 Convertible. The convertible version will sport a high-end cloth top similar to those found on pricier convertibles.

'There were no Le Mans stripes on Shelby's original GT500 Convertible, so we decided to pay homage by not offering them on today's convertible models,' says Gaffka. 'We also went with a cloth top material as another measure of substance and exclusivity. The fabric used is the same used on the 2002-03 SVT Mustang Cobra, the Thunderbird, Jaguar and Ford's other high-end convertibles.'

The unique rear fascia features lower strakes inspired by the Ford GT's integrated rear airflow diffuser, and a rear spoiler reminiscent of a classic GT500. To mark the collaboration of two Mustang performance icons, the GT500 features both Shelby and SVT badging.

The fenders each sport an updated design of the famed Cobra emblem. The front grille houses an off-center snake in place of the standard running horse. 'GT500' is emblazoned inside the side rocker stripes, and the name SHELBY is prominently written across the rear deck. The SVT logo can be seen on the wheel center caps, a signature SVT location, as well as on the doorsill plates. To top it off, the medallion between the taillights reads, 'Shelby GT500' centered on the Cobra image.

Cockpit Úpgrades
Inside, too, flair and function abound. The locations of the speedometer and the tachometer are swapped from the Mustang GT to provide performance-oriented drivers with a better view of shift points while changing gears. Front seats have received additional lateral support to help keep the driver optimally positioned during cornering.

The interior is offered in a choice of two colors, Charcoal Black or Charcoal Black and Crimson Red. The charcoal/red offering features Crimson Red seating surfaces and door panel inserts. Seating surfaces are leather with both interior treatments. Snake logos embossed in the seatbacks finish the package.

The Shelby GT500 script and Cobra image are repeated on the steering wheel cap. Behind the wheel, the gauges wear light faces in keeping with SVT tradition. The chromed accessories inside the cabin have been replaced with a satin aluminum finish, including the aluminum shift lever knob that is nicely positioned for quick, positive shifts.

New for 2008 is the availability of a 7-color programmable ambient lighting feature. This new Ford option allows owners to choose colorful interior lighting to fit their mood. A dashboard switch controls the selection of ambient light via LEDs mounted in the front console, two in the footwells and two around the cupholders.

Shelby and SVT: The Legends Grow
With the look and legend one would expect from Shelby and the kind of power and performance enthusiasts have come to expect from SVT, the SVT-engineered Shelby GT500 points to proud new era in Ford's performance future.

Shelby first put his name on a Mustang back in 1964 when he was asked to inject a dose of high performance into Ford's brand-new pony car. The result was the G.T.350R, a lightweight, handling-focused race car that earned Mustang its first performance credentials. Subsequent Shelby Mustangs included a street version of the race car, the G.T.350, and what was known as the 'rent-a-racer' Mustang, the G.T.350H, a joint project with the Hertz rental car corporation.

The ultimate Shelby Mustang of the era was the big-block G.T.500, and later the GT500KR, or 'King of the Road.' Powered by a 428-cubic-inch 'Cobra Jet' V-8, the distinctive GT500KR was one of the most powerful – and memorable – muscle cars of that period. Shelby Mustang production ceased in 1970 with a total volume of 14,559 units.

The GT500 launched a new series of Shelby-inspired Mustangs. Following the Shelby GT500 was the Shelby GT-H, available for rental through the Hertz Fun Fleets in 2007. These 'retired' rental cars, that consistently saw bids of over $50,000 at auction, spawned a customer version of the GT plus the announcement of the GT-H convertible that will enter the Hertz Fun Fleet this summer. 2008 also marks the return of the GT500KR 'King of the Road.' The most powerful production Mustang ever hits dealer showrooms in the spring of 2008.

Key Features and Options:

Standard features include : Supercharged 5.4-liter four-valve V-8 engine w/intercooler; stainless steel dual exhaust; SVT tuned front and rear suspension- with unique dampers and springs; Tremec 6-speed manual transmission; Power four-wheel disc Anti-Lock Brakes with ABS; Front fog lamps; 'GT500' side stripes (convertible); Over-the-top 'Racing Stripes' and 'GT500' side stripes (coupe); Únique SHELBY badging on rear decklid; P255/45ZR 18 (front) and P285/40ZR18 (rear) performance tires; Únique GT500 front and rear fascias and aluminum hood (with dual functional air vents); Únique rear spoiler; 18 x 9.5-inch bright machined aluminum wheels; Shaker 500 Audio System (AM/FM stereo w/CDx6, 6-speakers &MP3); Front seat side air bags; BeltMinder®.

Available options include : Ambient lighting; HID Headlamps; Shaker 1000 Audio System (AM/FM stereo with in-dash 6-disc CD, MP3 and 10 speakers; SIRIÚS® Satellite Radio; Touch Screen DVD-based navigation; Premium Interior Trim Package.

Source - Ford

FORD SHELBY GT500KR: WORLD-CLASS PERFORMANCE FROM THE MOST POWERFUL PRODUCTION MUSTANG EVER

The 2008 Ford Shelby GT500KR is the new 'King of the Road' – the most powerful production Mustang ever produced, thanks to a 540-hp supercharged 5.4-liter V-8 with 510 lb.-ft. of torque.

• The 2008 Ford Shelby GT500KR is the new 'King of the Road' – the most powerful production Mustang ever produced, thanks to a 540-hp supercharged 5.4-liter V-8 with 510 lb.-ft. of torque.

• New GT500KR blends performance engineering expertise of Ford SVT, trackside learnings from Ford Racing Technology and ingenuity of Shelby Automobiles to deliver world-class handling and performance. The Ford Shelby GT500KR arrives at select Ford dealerships in late May.

Long live the King! The 2008 Ford Shelby GT500KR, 'King of the Road' assumes the throne, taking its rightful place as the ultimate American muscle car.

The GT500KR builds on the already impressive stats of the Shelby GT500, with 40 more horsepower, an additional 30 foot-pounds of torque and an array of chassis, aero and weight-reduction measures to offer world-class performance. Engineered by Ford SVT with final assembly by Shelby Automobiles, it blends track learnings from the Ford Racing Mustang FR500C and the ingenuity of Carroll Shelby to deliver the ultimate in Mustang performance.

'Every new Shelby Mustang renews my energy and passion for performance,' said Carroll Shelby, founder of Shelby Automobiles. 'I'm just as excited about the 2008 KR as I was when I developed the first one. The team has done a great job with this car. It is this is truly the best Shelby Mustang we've ever built...so far.'

The Shelby GT500KR is the latest in a royal lineage that spans more than 40 years, beginning with the 1965 Shelby GT350 and including the original 1968 Shelby GT500KR that provided the inspiration. Carroll Shelby has played an active role in the development of every one.

'When the names Mustang and Shelby come together, the results are never anything less than amazing,' said Robert Parker, Ford Car Marketing manager. 'Mustang has earned an endearing place in America's hearts, topping the sports car segment for 22 straight years. The GT500KR is sure to get those hearts pumping even faster.'

Delivering the Últimate in Mustang Performance
Just like its 1968 namesake, the 2008 Shelby GT500KR builds on the strong foundation of the Shelby GT500. Ford and Shelby designers collaborated to channel the classic KR design cues and finesse them into the iconic lines of the new Mustang. Most noticeable are the modern interpretation of the distinctive, sculpted KR hood and classic Le Mans-style striping.

The development team spent countless hours designing a car that pays homage to the 1968 'King of the Road,' but this thoroughbred is more than just a pretty face. The GT500KR is inspired by Ford Racing's experience on the race track and finessed with the trademark SVT engineering and Shelby Automobiles' proven delivery of balanced performance production for the street. Its chassis incorporates unique suspension components developed especially for the KR.

The suspension's stiffness has been enhanced with wheel rates 17 percent higher in the front and 7 percent higher in the rear. Every other element of the chassis system – such as sway bars and shock absorbers – has been tuned especially to improve King of the Road's handling.

The new suspension was tuned to work with the Goodyear high-performance, P255/45Z18 front and P285/40ZR18 rear tires, developed specifically for the KR, with a compound that is exclusive to North America. The stickier tires help the short 3.73:1 rear gear (compared to the GT500's 3.31:1 rear gear) send maximum horsepower to the road and are an important component in the overall handling balance.

'The KR is much more than just a great straight-line performer. It's the complete package - handling, power and performance,' said Jamal Hameedi, chief program engineer at Ford SVT. 'The team put the GT500KR through rigorous testing and have witnessed slalom runs with sustained lateral acceleration of 1.0g on the skidpad. Those are world-class numbers.'

The GT500KR doesn't just go better, it stops better. The new tires work with a recalibrated anti-lock braking system (ABS) that results in improved stopping distances 6 feet shorter from 60 to 0 than the stock GT500. The ABS system has been tuned to be unobtrusive during spirited driving. Similar honing was undertaken with the vehicle's traction-control system to optimize acceleration

The GT500KR's impeccable balance of handling and performance is the result of a holistic approach to the development, looking at the total vehicle with chassis and powertrain engineers working together to optimize all vehicle attributes.

For example, a new front splitter and revised rear spoiler aid in aerodynamic improvements, adding downforce over the front axle and moving the center of aero pressure forward in the vehicle to improve high-speed balance and stable, predictable braking character. The ride height has been lowered to the optimum setting for on-the-limit handling, lowering the front by 20 mm and the rear by 15 mm.

'The KR is more responsive and has more body control,' said Gary Davis, vice president of production for Shelby Automobiles. 'It delivers even more racing feel than a stock GT500. Yet it's still extremely comfortable and doesn't beat you up like some performance cars. We've been able to increase handling substantially without giving up a lot in ride comfort.'

GT500KR 5.4-liter V-8 Receives the Royal Treatment


The added power is delivered courtesy of a revised ignition and throttle calibration and a cold air intake system that replaces the stock unit.

The unique carbon fiber hood, secured by a pair of stainless steel, twist-down hood pins, serves to relieve high-speed underhood pressure, move air from the front intake and engine compartment to the rear extractors and channel supplemental fresh air into the new cold air intake that feeds KR's massive V-8.

The Shelby GT500KR cold air intake seal was designed with the new hood to prevent hot engine compartment air from reaching the air intake. This channels ambient air to feed the supercharged intake for optimal combustion efficiency for horsepower and torque.

Calibration modifications include advancing the ignition timing as well as re-mapping the electronic throttle settings to provide quicker throttle response for better off-line and mid-range acceleration. Increased throttle response is met with a sharper roar from the Ford Racing-inspired exhaust system.

'Throttle response has been dramatically improved,' said Hameedi. 'The KR launches with authority and provides power on demand – throughout the entire power band.'

Power is delivered to the rear wheels through a Tremec TR6060 six-speed manual transmission. (posted on conceptcarz.com) Gear selection is courtesy of an all-new Ford Racing short-throw shifter. Topped with a white ball, the new shifter throws are 25 percent shorter than the unit on the GT500 providing for crisper, quicker shifts.

Inspired by Ford Racing Mustang FR500C motorsport experience, the Shelby GT500KR has been fitted with an elevated axle vent reservoir to prevent axle fluid expulsion during sustained periods of performance driving or track-day use.

A Legend in the Making

Each Shelby GT500KR begins life as a GT500, built at AutoAlliance International Inc., in Flat Rock, Mich. From there, the cars are shipped to Shelby Automobile's facility in Las Vegas.

'We are so proud of the Ford and Shelby teams coming together and working tirelessly for the last year to bring you the Ford Shelby GT500KRs with the specially engineered chassis, powertrain and exhaust components along with the unique carbon-fiber hood and the new short-throw shifter,' said Amy Boylan, president of Shelby Automobiles, Inc. 'Every GT500KR will be hand customized and delivered to each customer in an enclosed transporter, just like the Ford GT.'

Each 2008 GT500KR model is identified by a special 40th Anniversary badge on the fenders and grille, distinctive body colored mirror caps and Shelby lettering stretching across the front of the hood and along the rear portion of the deck lid. A special Shelby Automobiles, Inc., Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) tag is affixed inside each vehicle's engine compartment.

Each new GT500KR also will be entered into the official Shelby Registry.

The all-leather interior features Carroll Shelby signature embroidered headrests and an official Shelby CSM 40th Anniversary GT500KR dash plate mounted at the top of the center stack.

Other standard equipment includes HID headlamps, an interior ambient lighting package, wrapped and stitched instrument panel, center console and armrests, as well as an electrochromic rearview mirror. Optional equipment includes a Shaker 1000 audio system, DVD navigation system and SIRIÚS satellite radio.

The GT500KR or 'King of the Road' Mustang is the fourth limited-edition Mustang that Shelby Automobiles and Ford have brought to market since resuming their collaboration in 2001. The public will get its first taste of the GT500KR in late May, when selected dealers will offer the latest Shelby Mustang in a limited edition of 1,000 units for 2008. The manufacturer's suggested retail price of the Mustang GT500KR is $79,995, including destination and delivery charges.

Source - Ford

Sold for $38,500 at 2014 Mecum - Monterey.
This Shelby Mustang is one of just 215 Grabber Orange GT-C Shelbys built in 2008. It was sold exclusively by California Authorized Shelby-Ford dealers. The 4.6-liter engine offers 319 horsepower and 330 ft-lbs of torque. In the front is a modified MacPherson strut suspension with Ford Racing stabilier bar and a 1.5-inch drop. In the back is a 3-link setup with Ford Racing coils and a 1.5-inch drop. Zero-to-sixty mph is accomplished in just 5 seconds.

Shelby modifications include: Silver LeMans style stripe, badging on the core support, door sill plates and dash center, signed visor by Carroll Shelby, special hood and side coops, special grill and fascia, Ford Racing power pack and handling pack, performance tuned suspension, 1.5' drop, Hurst short throw shifter, Pioneer sound, MP3 and navigation