Critical Knowledge:

• New 550-horsepower, 5.4-liter, all-aluminum V-8 engine
• New electric power-assist steering
• New optional SVT Performance package
• Enhanced convertible rigidity
• Lowered ride height
• Improved noise insulation
• The first modern Shelby GT500 without a gas-guzzler tax

Introduction
In the early 1960s, auto racer, former flight instructor, WWII veteran and zesty Texan Carroll Shelby teamed with Ford Motor Company to create a high-performance variant of the company's successful Mustang pony car. The result, rolled out in 1965, was the Shelby-badged Mustang. The original partnership only lasted four years, but the Shelby name became synonymous with tuned Mustangs-any car enthusiast will tell you that. Nearly forty years passed before Shebly once again partnered with Ford and the two released the 2004 Ford Shelby Cobra Concept and Ford Shelby GR-1 Concept. Both concepts foreshadowed vehicles that would soon be in showrooms once again.

The first Shelby GT-H arrived in 2006. A joint cooperation with Ford's Special Vehicle Team (SVT) and the Detroit automaker, the black and gold Ford was significantly more powerful than the stock Mustang and limited to a production run of just 500 units, in both coupe and convertible body styles. Interestingly enough, under a special arrangement it was only at Hertz car rental locations. The first so-called Shelby GT500 arrived in 2007-still limited in production, but its availability was more widespread. Over the next couple of years, the team introduced other special vehicles including the Shelby GT500KR, Super Snake and the Prudhomme Edition, named after the famed drag racer.

In 2010, the Shelby GT500 was reintroduced on Ford's all-new Mustang platform. It offered more power, more torque, and improved fuel economy. Not to sit idle-and more wary than ever of the competition from the Chevrolet Camaro and Dodge Challenger-Ford has once again made significant changes to its hot performance car for the 2011 model year. The improvements include a new weight-saving and performance-improving aluminum engine and electric power-assist steering, among others.

For More Information:

• See 2011 Ford Shelby GT500 Pictures
• Browse Other Ford Models
• Read More New Car Previews
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