The Ford Shelby II Cabrio GT 4.6 V8 represents a limited-production, high-performance convertible based on the Ford Mustang platform. Produced between 2008 and 2009, it was primarily aimed at the European market, offering a blend of American muscle and open-top driving enjoyment. While not officially sold in the United States, the Shelby II Cabrio served as a distinctive offering within Ford’s global lineup, capitalizing on the iconic Shelby name and the appeal of a powerful V8 engine. It occupies the premium sports car segment, competing with other high-performance convertibles of the era.
Ford Shelby II Cabrio GT 4.6 V8: A Detailed Overview
The Shelby II Cabrio was created by the Ford Performance Group, leveraging the already potent Mustang GT as a base. The conversion involved significant aesthetic and performance enhancements, designed to evoke the spirit of the original Shelby Mustangs from the 1960s. The car was intended to provide a more exclusive and refined driving experience than the standard Mustang GT, appealing to enthusiasts seeking a unique and powerful convertible.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Shelby II Cabrio GT lies a 4.6-liter V8 engine, producing 324 horsepower at 5750 rpm and 447 Newton-meters (329.69 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4500 rpm. This naturally aspirated engine, equipped with multi-port fuel injection, delivers robust performance and a classic V8 soundtrack. The engine’s power output translates to a power-to-weight ratio of 197 horsepower per tonne and a torque-to-weight ratio of 271.7 Nm per tonne, contributing to spirited acceleration and responsive handling. The engine is longitudinally mounted at the front of the vehicle, driving the rear wheels through a 5-speed manual transmission. This configuration provides a traditional sports car driving experience, emphasizing driver engagement and control. The Shelby II Cabrio’s performance characteristics place it firmly within the realm of capable sports cars, offering a compelling blend of power and handling.
Design & Features
The Shelby II Cabrio is a two-door convertible with seating for four passengers. Its design incorporates styling cues reminiscent of the original Shelby Mustangs, including a unique front fascia, side skirts, and a rear spoiler. The convertible top allows for open-air driving, enhancing the overall driving experience. The car’s dimensions – 4765 mm (187.6 in) in length, 1877 mm (73.9 in) in width, and 1415 mm (55.71 in) in height – provide a substantial presence on the road. The 2720 mm (107.09 in) wheelbase contributes to a stable and comfortable ride. Safety features include an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), providing enhanced stopping power and control. The vehicle rides on 18-inch wheel rims, fitted with 235/50 ZR18 tires, offering a balance of grip and ride comfort. The interior features upgraded materials and trim, further enhancing the sense of exclusivity. The overall design aesthetic blends classic Shelby styling with modern features, creating a visually appealing and desirable vehicle.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Shelby |
| Generation | Shelby II Cabrio |
| Type (Engine) | GT 4.6 V8 (324 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2008 |
| End of production | 2009 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.1 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.7 kg/Nm |
| Power | 324 Hp @ 5750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 70.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 447 Nm @ 4500 rpm |
| Torque (lb.-ft.) | 329.69 lb.-ft. @ 4500 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 4601 cm3 |
| Engine displacement (cu. in.) | 280.77 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 90.2 mm |
| Cylinder Bore (in.) | 3.55 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 90 mm |
| Piston Stroke (in.) | 3.54 in. |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 3 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Kerb Weight | 1645 kg |
| Kerb Weight (lbs.) | 3626.6 lbs. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l |
| Fuel tank capacity (US gal) | 15.85 US gal |
| Fuel tank capacity (UK gal) | 13.2 UK gal |
| Length | 4765 mm |
| Length (in.) | 187.6 in. |
| Width | 1877 mm |
| Width (in.) | 73.9 in. |
| Height | 1415 mm |
| Height (in.) | 55.71 in. |
| Wheelbase | 2720 mm |
| Wheelbase (in.) | 107.09 in. |
| Front track | 1582 mm |
| Front track (in.) | 62.28 in. |
| Rear track | 1587 mm |
| Rear track (in.) | 62.48 in. |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.38 |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 235/50 ZR18 |
| Wheel rims size | 18 |
The Ford Shelby II Cabrio GT 4.6 V8, while a relatively short-lived model, represents a compelling example of Ford’s commitment to performance and its ability to create desirable vehicles for specific markets. Its blend of American muscle, European styling, and open-top driving enjoyment makes it a unique and sought-after vehicle among automotive enthusiasts.
