2011 Ford Shelby GT500: Ready to Hit the Racetrack

The Ford Shelby GT500 kicks performance up a few notches for 2011, with an all-new aluminum-block engine that produces 550 horsepower and 510 ft.-lb. of torque. Fuel economy also is improved due to a lighter engine and aerodynamic enhancements. The new GT500 offers better steering and handling precision, and an optional SVT Performance Package complete with Shelby GT500-exclusive tires, unique styling, lighter wheels, a higher rear axle ratio and stiffer springs.

2011 Ford Shelby GT500

An optional SVT Performance Package highlights the new 2011 Ford Shelby GT500®, available on both coupe and convertible models, making it racetrack ready.

The optional package features the all-new next-generation Goodyear Eagle® F1 SuperCar G: 2 tires only available on the 2011 Shelby GT500, offering incredible dry traction and precise handling, complete with a race-inspired ultra-high-performance tread compound. All-new lightweight 19-inch forged-aluminum wheels in the front complement all-new tires, with new 20-inch forged-aluminum wheels at the rear.

Other new convenience technologies include:

*Standard HID (high-intensity discharge) headlamps

*MyKey™ programmable vehicle key

*Integrated spotter mirror

*Fold-down rear headrests

“Whether you’re looking to take the GT500 out on the streets or have some fun at the track,” Capito says, “this car will satisfy the most discriminating performance driving enthusiasts.”

Shelby Slide Show

A Legend Reborn: Shelby American Brings Back the Shelby GT350

Shelby American brings back the Shelby GT350 on 45th anniversary of car’s introduction

The Shelby is supercharged and enhanced in every way.

The car was introduced during the Barrett-Jackson Opening Night Gala in Scottsdale

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Shelby American, a wholly owned subsidiary of Carroll Shelby International Inc. , will fulfill the dreams of enthusiasts by returning the legendary Shelby GT350 to its lineup of American performance cars. The Shelby team unveiled a supercharged concept version of the Mustang-based 2011 Shelby GT350 to the surprise of thousands gathered at the Barrett-Jackson Auction Opening Night Gala to honor the 45th anniversary of the first GT350 and first Shelby big block Cobra.

The concept behind the GT350 was to build a car that is light, nimble and powerful. Beginning with the “small block” 5.0 liter Ford Mustang GT as its base, the Shelby American team worked with experts from Ford Racing, Goodyear, Borla, Cragar and Baer to create a car that is fast and has razor sharp handling. Every segment of the car is enhanced or replaced to create the ultimate balanced performance pony car that is true to the spirit of the 1965-1970 MY Shelby GT350.

“The 2011 GT350 balances heritage with modern necessity,” said Shelby American president Amy Boylan. “Former Hot Wheels and Ford designer Larry Wood joined Vince LaViolette, Walter Cardenas, Andrew Smidt and the rest of our Las Vegas team to help integrate 1965-1970 Shelby styling cues with modern aerodynamics. We worked with Ford Racing to supercharge the engine with a goal of 500 horsepower, as well as to sharpen the handling. Baer Brakes helped engineer the fantastic brakes and we shod the GT350 with 19” modern Cragar wheels and super sticky Goodyear tires. This Shelby is truly a complete performance package.”

“Since this was one of the most important cars in Shelby’s history, everyone stepped up to make sure it meets Carroll’s performance standards,” added Gary Davis, vice president of production for Shelby American. “After it was hand built in our new design studio, it began extensive testing at Las Vegas Motor Speedway by veteran test drivers Vince LaViolett and Gary Patterson. We’re all proud to be part of this milestone Shelby car.”