2012 FORD Mustang Shelby GT500 5.8 V8 6MT (671 HP)

Vehicle Overview

Ford refreshed the Mustang GT500 in 2012 for the 2013 model year, thrilling the market and threatening its main competitor with its mighty power and handling abilities.

While in 1967 Ford produced the first Shelby GT500, based on the first-generation Mustang, the 2012 model year was based on the fourth generation of the original pony car. Like its famous predecessor, the new model didn’t want to be just a quarter-mile car. It was also built to achieve excellent performance on the track.

The exterior was refreshed, and the GT500 version featured a vent on the hood, warning its road companions that this was more powerful than any other Mustang ever made. In addition, the automaker added new LED signature lamps both front and rear. From its sides, the body-colored rocker panels offered a more stylish look to the car.

Inside, the sports seats were adorned with the famous Shelby Cobra badge on their seatbacks. Moreover, the same logo replaced the classic blue-oval badge on the steering wheel. At the same time, the dashboard kept the same layout as the non-Shelby versions of the Mustang. In addition, the infotainment system received new, performance-oriented functions. In the back, Ford installed a bench for two, which offered less room than in other regular Mustangs due to the size of the front seats.

But the real change was under the hood. Ford managed not only to produce the most powerful Mustang ever but also the most powerful production V8 engine in the world. Its 2.8-liter supercharge mounted on top of the 5.8-liter powerplant was paired with a standard six-speed manual, with a very long sixth gear that helped the Shelby GT500 avoid the gas-guzzler tax in the U.S. Last but not least, it was a 200 mph (322 kph) car!