CARS OF THE WORLD

Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 Code Red 2023.

Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 Code Red 2023. The outgoing Ford Mustang got the most powerful dope from Shelby — more than 1300 hp!

Already in September Ford will present Mustang sports car of the new, seventh generation, but the present «sixth» pony-car still has something to surprise admirers and collectors: the small-series version Shelby GT500 Code Red is presented, in which the drive supercharger on 5,2-liter V8 was replaced by two turbochargers.

This complex operation gave the sports car a tremendous performance boost, and the model will be produced in an edition of 30 copies.

During its history, Shelby American made several experimental cars, on which they tested different technical solutions.

Among those cars was the Shelby GT500 Code Red coupe based on the 2008 Mustang, on which Carroll Shelby first ventured to use a turbocharger instead of the traditional for his most powerful sports cars big «meat grinder» on the intake and brought the V8 engine power to the coveted 1000 hp.

The prototype was shown in 2011, and Mr. Shelby left our sinful world in 2012.

His company never decided to put the supercharged Code Red into production, even though customers asked for it — ten years ago it was too troublesome and expensive, there was no way to guarantee 100% quality and reliability of the Shelby.

Now times have changed, the technological base has become more perfect and finally the Shelby GT500 Code Red is available for ordering, though already based on the sixth rather than fifth generation Mustang.

The cost of the car is $209,995, plus a donor car — a stock Shelby GT500, which now costs $79,420 and more in the U.S.

Shelby American intends to build only 30 copies of the Code Red — 10 each for the 2020, 2021, and 2022 model years in conjunction with the donor cars.

Shelby American’s partner in developing the Shelby GT500 turbo conversion was another famous American tuning firm, Fathouse Performance, with more than 50 years of experience, its components used to upgrade the engine. A lot of rework had to be done, which explains the high price.

It was necessary to install new manifolds with thermal protection and an intercooler to the «snail» Xona 7869S.

The engine has new custom Manley pistons, reinforced connecting rods and rods, and Ferrea sport valves for increased loads.

The cooling, power and lubrication systems are modified, and the control program is rewritten.

The maximum final output on E85 racing fuel is 1318 hp and 1356 Nm.

For comparison, the most powerful compressor-based Ford Mustang Shelby GT500KR makes «only» 900 hp.

The seven-speed «robot» Tremec with two clutches is reconfigured, as well as the adaptive adjustable MagneRide suspension, reinforced semi-axles and wheel studs are installed.

The package includes aerodynamic widebody body kit from Shelby made of carbon fiber and wide tires format 305/30 R 20 in front and 345/30 R 20 in rear.

The interior got new leather upholstery and generous carbon fiber trim, pressure indicators were added to the instruments, and the rear seat was dismantled — its place was taken by a half-frame safety cage.

Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 Code Red dynamic characteristics have not yet been announced.