The Ford Shelby GT500, specifically the Shelby II (facelift 2010) model produced from 2013 to 2014, represents the pinnacle of Ford’s Mustang performance heritage. This iteration of the GT500 was a significant upgrade over its predecessors, boasting a more powerful engine, refined handling, and aggressive styling. Positioned as a high-performance muscle car, the GT500 competed with offerings from Chevrolet (Corvette and Camaro ZL1) and Dodge (Challenger SRT). It was exclusively sold in North America, cementing its status as an American performance icon.
Ford Shelby II GT500: A Legacy of Power
The Shelby GT500 name carries significant weight within Ford’s history, dating back to the original collaboration with Carroll Shelby in the 1960s. The 2013-2014 Shelby II continued this tradition, offering a substantial increase in power and performance. The “facelift” designation refers to the comprehensive updates made to the Mustang platform, resulting in a more modern and capable machine. This generation focused on delivering a track-ready experience while maintaining a degree of daily drivability.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Shelby GT500 lies a 5.8-liter (354.67 cubic inch) V8 engine, supercharged and intercooled, producing a formidable 672 horsepower at 6500 rpm and 856 Nm (631.35 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4000 rpm. This power is delivered through a 6-speed manual transmission to the rear wheels, providing a visceral driving experience. The engine features a 9:1 compression ratio, DOHC valvetrain with 4 valves per cylinder, and multi-port fuel injection. The supercharger significantly enhances the engine’s output, providing instant throttle response and impressive acceleration. The weight-to-power ratio of 2.6 kg/Hp (387.8 Hp/tonne) and weight-to-torque ratio of 2 kg/Nm (493.9 Nm/tonne) highlight the car’s impressive performance capabilities. Power per liter is an impressive 115.6 Hp/l.
Design & Features
The 2013-2014 Shelby GT500 is a two-door coupe with seating for four. Its exterior design is characterized by aggressive styling cues, including a unique front fascia with a prominent grille, a functional hood scoop, and aerodynamic bodywork. The car’s wide stance and muscular lines convey its performance potential. The interior features supportive sport seats, a performance-oriented steering wheel, and unique Shelby badging. While focused on performance, the GT500 also included modern amenities for the time, such as an audio system and climate control. Safety features included ABS (Anti-lock braking system) and ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels. The drag coefficient of 0.35 contributes to its aerodynamic efficiency at higher speeds.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Shelby |
| Generation | Shelby II (facelift 2010) |
| Type (Engine) | GT 500 5.8 V8 (672 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 15.7 l/100 km (15 US mpg, 18 UK mpg, 6.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 9.8 l/100 km (24 US mpg, 28.8 UK mpg, 10.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 13.1 l/100 km (18 US mpg, 21.6 UK mpg, 7.6 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 2.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2 kg/Nm |
| Power | 672 Hp @ 6500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 115.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 856 Nm @ 4000 rpm (631.35 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 5812 cm3 (354.67 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 93.5 mm (3.68 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 105.8 mm (4.17 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Supercharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 20 l (21.13 US qt | 17.6 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1733 kg (3820.61 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4780 mm (188.19 in.) |
| Width | 1877 mm (73.9 in.) |
| Height | 1392 mm (54.8 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2720 mm (107.09 in.) |
| Front track | 1572 mm (61.89 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1587 mm (62.48 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 118 mm (4.65 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.35 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.27 m (36.98 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive. Internal Combustion engine (ICE) |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 265/40 ZR19; 285/35 ZR20 |
| Wheel rims size | 19; 20 |
The Ford Shelby GT500 (2013-2014) remains a highly sought-after muscle car, celebrated for its raw power, aggressive styling, and connection to a rich automotive heritage. Its combination of a potent engine, refined chassis, and iconic design ensures its place as a modern classic.
