Ford unveiled today the ultimate Ford Mustang: behold the 2013 Shelby GT500. Set to go on sale next year, the 2013 Shelby GT500 is powered by an aluminum 5.8-liter supercharged V8 engine delivering 650 hp and 600 lb.-ft. of torque. With these numbers, Ford claims that this is the most powerful production V8 engine in the world. Regarding the performances, the American manufacturer didn’t give us any details but said that the top speed of the 2013 Shelby GT500 is more than 200 mph. The engine is mated to a six-speed manual transmission and Ford says that the final drive ratio is now 3.31:1 for optimized overall vehicle gearing to complement the massive torque.
Every gear besides fourth was optimized for competing performance metrics. The clutch has increased torque and rpm capacity and uses a dual-disc design. Other improvements for the 2013 model year are the Torsen limited-slip differential that helps the rear suspension to deliver maximum torque and traction, a new launch control system that allows drivers to set the desired launch rpm depending on tire temperature, street surface or other conditions and a new Brembo braking system that offers enhanced stopping power to help keep their car under control, both on the road and the track.
Regarding the aerodynamics, the front fascia and splitters were modified in order to support the enhanced stopping power to help keep their car under control, both on the road and the track. According to Ford, the 2013 Shelby GT500 offers 33 percent more effective aero loading at 160 mph compared to the 2011 model. The 2013 Shelby GT500 offers two new sets of forged-aluminum wheels including a unique wheel for cars with the optional packages. Ford also offers the Performance Package with an additional Track Package for all-out performance for those who want even more and this option comes with an external engine oil cooler, rear differential cooler and transmission cooler for further durability.
