Convertible 2013 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 photo Review

It’s probably obvious that Ford is going to give no chances to Chevy Camaro ZL1, with the new 2013 Mustang 650-horsepower beast, Shelby GT500 ($22,200 - $42,200). Moreover, Ford is already preparing a 2013 GT500 Convertible, which has been shown off at Chicago Auto Show this year. By the way, that was Chicago scene to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Ford Special Vehicles Team. So, what is the new GT500 convertible?

Well, the car has got the same underpinnings and powertrain as the hardtop. Thus, here is a newer supercharged 5.8-liter V-8, while the older was 5.4 liters. As a result, Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 produces 650 hp or 600 lb-ft of torque, coming with a carbon-fiber driveshaft and 6-speed manual transmission. The V-8 only benefits from such go-fast tweaks as high-lift camshafts, as well as the drivetrain scores both transmission gears and a stronger clutch. Comparing with the current 2012 GT500, just 550 hp and 510 lb-ft are offered.

The Shelby GT500 can boast of new Brembo brakes, with 6-pistons front calipers. As for the Performance package, it includes a Torsen limited-slip differential and Bilstein adaptive dampers. An optional Track package features extra engine oil coolers, rear differential plus transmission. The same as all 2013 Mustangs, GT500 receives a mild facelift which is comprised of narrower headlights, redesigned LED taillights and a new grille.

    

Ford claims that the 2013 GT500 coupe is capable to hit 200 mph, though the convertible is limited to 155 mph. Actually, there is no word on the top and its operation differs from the present GT500. However, Ford states the 2013 drop-top is to be 4 seconds quicker than the outgoing car, around Sebring International Raceway.

        

Also, the 2013 Shelby GT500 helps to celebrate the 2-decade run of Ford SVT division. In these terms, the car comes with special illuminated doorsills. It should be mentioned that SVT program started in 1993 with SVT Mustang Cobra, impressing everyone by its 235 hp from 5.0-liter engine. Then Ford and SVT represented other performance cars like SVT F-150 Lightning, SVT Focus, SVT Contour, F-150 SVT Raptor, Ford GT supercar, and the recent Mustang Shelby GT500 models.

If to go forward, American SVT and European RS teams will join their forces as Performance Vehicles Group of Ford. Due to this, the company will make future performance models really global, selling them throughout the whole world. Here are the first examples of this - the 2013 Focus ST and the Fiesta ST - which are truly inspirable concepts.