Are you searching for an American muscle car ready to stand up against some of the world’s most exotic super cars? You just may find the answer in the 2020 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500.
What makes the 2020 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 special?
It may look just like the Mustang sitting in your neighbor’s garage, but turn it on, and its quad exhaust gives voice to 760 unruly horses.
Of course, horsepower alone will not win races. Keep reading to find out what else turns this ‘Stang into a master of tight turns and epic straightaways.
An Iconic Brand Complemented by a King of Racing
Nearly as long as the Ford Mustang has been galloping across America as an affordable and fun muscle car, Shelby has been helping it bring the thrill of the track on board.
Legendary car designer Caroll Shelby returned to Ford in 2004 to reintroduce the Mustang Shelby GT500 to the stable as a track-ready machine. The 2020 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 maintains the reputation of the racing legend with its latest addition to the Shelby brand.
Under the hood, there is the 5.2 supercharged cross plane crank V8 engine capable of 760 horsepower, matched to a seven-speed dual clutch TREMEC® performance transmission. A limited slip rear axle, differential cooler, independent rear suspension, and true dual exhaust provide the underpinnings of excitement.
Line lock and launch control heat up your tires at the Christmas tree and help you keep your leather-wrapped steering wheel aimed straight down the strip. The Track Apps give you a countdown to launch and then record G-forces, acceleration speed, and lamp times.
Just how fast will it go? This racehorse is ready for the big time with a top speed of 180 mph and is able to reach 60 mph from a standstill in 3.3 seconds. It is not quite competitive with the Dodge Challenger Hellcat Widebody, as the Mustang rips off a quarter-mile in 10.7 seconds. However, it will leave most comers standing in your dust cloud.
The Cockpit: Your Position of Power
Of course, if you are dropping over 70 grand on a street-legal racing machine, you expect to be treated to some of the nicer things in life. The sport seats are wrapped in leather-trimmed suede with power controls on the driver’s side. Automatic climate control means you can stay focused on the road while it maintains a steady temperature.
A 12-inch color digital instrument cluster can be programmed to display the data you desire. The headlights switch on when the rain-sensing wipers are activated. The smart key stays securely in your pocket while unlocking the doors. Just press “Start” to play!
If you are searching for a dedicated racing machine, the Carbon Fiber Performance Package will remove the rear seats and replace yours with a Recaro racing seat in leather.
Why We Love the Look of the 2020 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500
Anybody who has been a car enthusiast for the past 50 years can readily identify the timeless silhouette of the Ford Mustang. The current body still features the low and long profile, a tail that stands up in the wind, and a pair of wide doors.
What makes the 2020 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 stand apart from the entry-level version starts with functional side air intakes, a performance rear spoiler, hood vents, and a rear diffuser.
Of course, it still has those sequential LED taillights ready to grab the attention of everyone on the interstate. Quad tips peak out under the back bumper, giving voice to a glorious throaty rumble. A set of 20-inch flow-formed black aluminum wheels are intended for a set of summer performance tires.
Red Brembo brakes peek out from behind the wheels and provide superior stopping power with six pistons in the front and four in the back.
Do you need more details? Check out the complete specs here.
What You Need to Know When Shopping for Your Own Muscle Car
Perhaps you are not planning on buying a 2020 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500, but can imagine the EcoBoost Fastback or convertible in your garage. If you are thinking of pre-owned, make sure that the first owner didn’t blow up the engine by checking its maintenance history at VehicleHistory.com before you buy.
