Known for its build and power, the GT500 has become an iconic car that pushes the boundaries of the automotive industry. By combining the best parts that can be found, Shelby has created a car with superior technology that truly champions the streets. So, what engine is in the Shelby GT500 that contributes to its superior performance and power?
Read on for a historic breakdown of the Shelby auto industry and the transformation of the GT500 over the years.
What Engine Is in the Shelby GT500?
So, what engine is in the Shelby GT500? Under the 2022 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 hood is a 5.2-liter supercharged V8 engine with an incredible 760 hp. This power is sent to the rear wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. In the following, you can see the details of this engine:
| Engine | 5.2L supercharged V-8 |
| Horsepower | 760 hp at 7300 RPM |
| Torque | 625 pound-feet @ 5000 RPM |
| Curb weight | 4,171 pounds |
| Transmission | Seven-speed dual-clutch automatic |
However, throughout history, Shelby has used engines with different characteristics that have always been ahead of other cars in the automotive industry.
History of the GT500
The story of the GT500 began in the 60s when Shelby and Ford began developing plans for a new model based on the GT350, best Shelby mustang model. This collaboration resulted in the creation of two models, the GT350 and the GT350R.
The GT350 model was intended for recreational use, while the GT350R was designed as a racing vehicle. After this step, Shelby installed a Ford 428 V8 engine on the GT350, which he called the GT500. Such a move would lead to the creation of an iconic car that would inspire many generations to come.
1967
The first GT500 model was built in 1967. An interesting fact about this model is that only one convertible model was made due to problems with production, supply, and finances. This model had a 428-cubic inch, 7.0L V8 engine with 355 hp. It could go from 0 to 60 mph in just 6.5 seconds.
1968
This year, the GT500 was rebranded as the Cobra GT500KR. This model was far more powerful than the first, so it was rightly called KR or “King of the Road”. Equipped with a 428 Cobra Jet V8 engine with 355 hp, this model could go from 0 to 60 mph in 5.5 seconds.
1969
To create this model, Ford took all the responsibilities in terms of design. In that regard, Ford redesigned the look, lengthened the body and decided not to use the KR for this model. This model of the GT500 contained the 428 V8, the same engine as the 1967 model. In addition, it could reach 0 to 60 mph in 6.0 seconds.
A characteristic of this year is that the contract between Shelby and Ford was terminated. With that, this model is the last of the first generation, and there will be no new updates until the 2000s.
2007
After more than thirty years, at the request of the public, Shelby again renewed cooperation with Ford. This resulted in the creation of a new version of the GT500. This model had upgraded features like suspension, exterior and interior. In addition, it contained a supercharged 5.4-liter engine that had 500 hp.
2008
This year saw the introduction of the new GT500KR. This model had a 5.4-liter V8 engine that could reach 540 hp. In addition to the superior engine, this model also had a carbon fiber composite hood, brake cooling ducts, and mirror caps made of carbon fiber.
2010-2012
During this period, the GT500 received an improvement in terms of engine characteristics. This model still had a 5.4-liter supercharged V8 engine that could achieve 540 hp.
However, in 2011, the GT500 had a lighter version due to the engine with an aluminum block. Furthermore, this model had 550 hp, which you could go from 0 to 60 mph in 4.1 seconds.
2013-2014
The last model of the second generation had more powerful features. This model of the GT500 featured a “Trinity” supercharged 32-valve V8 with 662 hp and a top speed of 200 mph. In addition, this model reached 0 to 60 mph in an incredible 3.5 seconds.
Newest generation
After several years of hiatus, the Ford company presented a new version of the GT500 in 2020. This model was superior to previous models and broke the boundaries of the auto industry in terms of performance.
Unlike previous engines, the new model’s engine was hand-made from aluminum alloy. This 5.2-liter V8 engine was called the Predator, and with its 750 hp, it achieved 0 to 60 mph in 4.1 seconds.
The future of the GT500
Although many car enthusiasts thought that the GT500 would stop being produced after 2022, such a break is believed to end in 2025. Namely, there are speculations that the new model will be a modified and more powerful version than the previous ones.
That would involve modifying the Predator V8 engine below 800 hp. When it comes to the price of such models, judging by the previous ones, it is expected to have a starting price of $80,000, which would reach up to $100,000.
Conclusion
What type of engine does the Shelby GT500 have? As you reach the end of this historic journey, you have seen the transformation of the Shelby GT500 engines.
Although this engine underwent several transformations, it was still a step ahead of its competitors. Today, the Shelby GT500 still holds its iconic status as a car that pushes the boundaries of the auto industry and remains a favorite among fans of fast wheels.
Finally, hopefully you have it clear what engine is in the Shelby GT500 and what changes it has undergone throughout history.
