LA MOTOR SHOW: Mustang Shelby GT500 kicks out 485kW

Ford aims to serve up a resounding riposte to the Chevy Camaro ZL1 with its new 2013 Mustang Shelby GT500, which offers some astounding on-paper stats.

The new ponycar spearhead is propelled by a supercharged 5.8-litre aluminium block V8 that belts out 485kW and 813Nm of torque, allegedly enabling it to top 320km/h. Yet Ford claims the 1750kg coupe still manages to dodge the US gas-guzzler tax.

In its PR blurb, the company says nearly every part of the powertrain has been optimised to eke out the additional horsepower, including a new supercharger, new cross-drilled block and heads, updated camshaft profiles, a new carbonfibre driveshaft and upgraded clutch, transmission and axle.

The larger, more-efficient supercharger that flows more air through the engine is said to be the key to helping produce the massive 485kW peak output. The revamped cooling system includes a larger cooling fan, fan shroud with high-speed pressure-relief doors, a more efficient charge air cooler, a higher-flow intercooler pump and an intercooler heat exchanger with volume increased 36 percent.

Ford engineers reportedly tried more than 35 gearing combinations before settling on the ratios for the six-speed manual transmission, which is complemented by a 3.31:1 final-drive ratio. Meanwhile, the clutch has increased torque and rpm capacity and uses a dual-disc design.

The Shelby GT500 comes standard with a launch control system, while an optional Performance Package adds a Torsen limited-slip differential that helps put down the power under track conditions, as well as SVT-designed Bilstein electronic adjustable dampers with Normal and Sport modes that can be selected via a button on the dash.

There’s also an additional Track Package that adds an external engine oil cooler, rear differential cooler and transmission cooler to preserve the driveline under sustained punishment on the circuit.

An enhanced Brembo braking system with new six-piston calipers in front along with larger front and rear rotors is said to lessen brake fade, while “more aggressive” brake pads are claimed to add extra bite to stopping power.

Ford says the Shelby GT500’s 320km/h capability also necessitated some aero tweaking, and the modified front fascia and splitters results in a car “that tracks more securely and feels more planted to the road at higher speeds”. The company claims the new GT500 offers 33 percent more effective aero loading at 160mph (257km/h) compared to the 2011 model.

The 2013 model enables the traction control and stability control systems to be fully disabled, and there’s also an intermediate sport mode that allows drivers to thrash their cars at the track without completely disabling the safety systems.

“We took a completely different approach with this car so drivers can choose their settings instead of a computer making the selection,” SVT chief engineer Jamal Hameedi said. “Nearly every system the driver interacts with can be tailored to his or her situation including the Bilstein electronic adjustable suspension, launch control, AdvanceTrac and steering assist levels.”

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