The Ford Shelby GT500, specifically the Shelby II (facelift 2010) model produced from 2011 to 2012, represents the pinnacle of Ford’s Mustang performance heritage. This iteration of the GT500 was a significant upgrade over its predecessors, focusing on delivering raw power and track-ready capabilities within the iconic Mustang body style. Positioned as a high-performance coupe, the Shelby GT500 competed with vehicles like the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 and Dodge Challenger SRT8, aiming to dominate the American muscle car segment. The 2010 facelift brought substantial improvements to the engine, suspension, and styling, solidifying its reputation as a formidable performance machine.
The Ford Shelby II GT500: A Performance Icon
The Shelby GT500 name carries significant weight within Ford’s history, evoking memories of Carroll Shelby’s collaboration with Ford in the 1960s. The 2011-2012 Shelby II continued this tradition, offering a substantial increase in horsepower and a more refined driving experience. While not officially sold outside of North America, the GT500 became a highly sought-after vehicle among performance enthusiasts globally, representing the ultimate expression of American muscle. The focus was squarely on delivering a thrilling driving experience, prioritizing power and handling over fuel efficiency.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Shelby GT500 lies a 5.4-liter V8 engine, supercharged and intercooled, producing a formidable 558 horsepower at 6200 rpm and 692 Nm (510.39 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4500 rpm. This engine, designated as the “Modular” engine family by Ford, benefited from extensive engineering upgrades for the 2011-2012 model years, including revised internals and a more efficient supercharger. The power-to-weight ratio of 3.1 kg/Hp and torque-to-weight ratio of 2.5 kg/Nm contribute to exhilarating acceleration. The engine’s configuration is a longitudinal V-engine with a displacement of 5408 cm3 (330.02 cu. in.). It features a 90.2 mm bore, 105.8 mm stroke, and an 8.4:1 compression ratio. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-port manifold injection system. The engine requires 6.1 liters (6.45 US qt / 5.37 UK qt) of oil and 20 liters (21.13 US qt / 17.6 UK qt) of coolant. The GT500 was available with a 6-speed manual transmission, delivering a direct and engaging driving experience.
Design & Features
The Shelby GT500 is a two-door coupe with seating for four passengers. The exterior styling features aggressive aerodynamic enhancements, including a unique front fascia, hood, side skirts, and rear spoiler, all designed to improve downforce and cooling. The 2010 facelift brought a more refined and modern aesthetic to the vehicle. The car rides on 19-inch wheels, fitted with 255/40 ZR19 tires at the front and 285/35 ZR19 tires at the rear. The suspension system is tuned for performance, offering improved handling and stability. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, equipped with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced safety. The interior features supportive sport seats and unique Shelby badging, emphasizing the car’s performance pedigree. The drag coefficient of 0.35 contributes to its aerodynamic efficiency.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Shelby |
| Generation | Shelby II (facelift 2010) |
| Type (Engine) | GT 500 5.4 V8 (558 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 15.7 l/100 km (15 US mpg / 18 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg / 27.7 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 13.8 l/100 km (17 US mpg / 20.5 UK mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.1 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.5 kg/Nm |
| Power | 558 Hp @ 6200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 103.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 692 Nm @ 4500 rpm (510.39 lb.-ft. @ 4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 5408 cm3 (330.02 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 90.2 mm (3.55 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 105.8 mm (4.17 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 8.4:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Supercharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.1 l (6.45 US qt | 5.37 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 | 1384 mm (54.49 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2720 mm (107.09 in.) |
| Front track | 1572 mm (61.89 in.) |
| Rear track | 1587 mm (62.48 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 145 mm (5.71 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.35 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.27 m (36.98 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Type of gearbox | 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 | 255/40 ZR19; 285/35 ZR19 |
| Wheel rims size | 19 |
The Ford Shelby GT500 (2011-2012) remains a highly desirable muscle car, celebrated for its potent engine, aggressive styling, and engaging driving dynamics. It represents a significant chapter in the Mustang’s legacy, offering a thrilling and unforgettable experience for performance enthusiasts.
