The 2011 Ford Mustang GT left an indelible mark on me, a seasoned automotive journalist with a need for speed. But what about its brawnier sibling, the Shelby GT500? This beast, with its upgraded 5.4-liter V8 churning out a monstrous 550 horsepower, promised a thrilling ride. I took it for a spin, pushing its limits on the track and even surprising a group of hippies with its raw power.
Track Prowess: Taming the Beast at Nelson Ledges
My heart pounded with anticipation as I unleashed the GT500 on the demanding curves of Nelson Ledges Road Course. The bespoke Goodyear tires, while not quite as grippy as Hoosiers, provided impressive grip, allowing me to push the car hard. It devoured corners with surprising grace for its size, going head-to-head with Corvettes and Evos.
The Shelby’s stability shone through, even with AdvanceTrac switched off. The well-damped suspension kept the body in check, and the solid rear axle, while a bit bouncy at times, never felt like it would lose composure. This car instilled confidence, urging me to push harder with every lap.
However, the brakes, while adequate for street use, struggled to keep up with the engine’s immense power on the track. They faded quickly, forcing me to adapt my braking style and rely more on engine braking. A pad and fluid upgrade is a must for any owner planning to unleash the GT500 on a track regularly.
A Muscle Car with Manners: Everyday Drivability
Don’t let the track-focused nature fool you; the GT500 is surprisingly docile in everyday driving. Its powerful engine delivers smooth, linear power, making it easy to manage in traffic. The ride, while firm, isn’t punishing, and the cabin, though not luxurious, offers decent comfort and practicality.
I even had a chance to showcase the car’s head-turning looks at the ComFest in Columbus, Ohio. While the hippies weren’t exactly thrilled with a tire-smoking display, the car drew plenty of admiring glances. It’s hard not to be impressed by the GT500’s aggressive styling and undeniable presence.
The Verdict: A Modern Classic with Room for Improvement
The 2011 Ford Shelby GT500 is a thrilling muscle car that delivers both raw power and impressive handling. While the brakes could benefit from an upgrade for serious track use, its overall performance and everyday usability make it a compelling package.
However, I can’t help but feel that the heart of this beast, the supercharged 5.4-liter V8, is a bit too much. The 5.0-liter engine in the standard GT, with its free-revving nature and lack of heat soak, shines brighter in this application.
If I were to build my ideal Mustang, it would have all the goodies from the Shelby – the SVT Performance Pack, the forged wheels, the Alcantara interior – but with the naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8. A true driver’s car, a modern classic. Call it…the Boss.