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2013 Ford Shelby GT500 Goes Topless

 

  Ford Shelby
 

The ’13 Ford Shelby GT500 is equipped with a 5.8L supercharged V8 aluminum-block engine that produces 650 hp and 600 lb.-ft. of torque.

 

Equipped with a 5.8L supercharged V8 aluminum-block engine that produces 650 hp and 600 lb.-ft. of torque, the ’13 Ford Shelby GT500 convertible can reach a track-tested top speed of more than 200 mph. Nearly every part of the powertrain has been optimized for producing additional horsepower, including a new supercharger, new cross-drilled block and heads, updated camshaft profiles, a new carbon-fiber driveshaft and upgraded clutch, transmission and axle. And, nearly every gear on the ’13 Ford Shelby GT500 has been revised to manage the torque and use more of the power in a way that makes it more driver-friendly.

Recently, the Ford Shelby GT500 convertible made its debut at the Chicago Auto Show, serving as the celebratory vehicle of the 20th anniversary of Ford’s Special Vehicle Team (SVT).

The ’13 Shelby GT500 convertible with the optional Performance Package is faster around a track than the outgoing model, shaving nearly 3.5 seconds off its lap time at Sebring International Raceway compared to the ’11 and ’12 models.

Keys to the improved lap times are the power boost from the new 5.8L supercharged V8, SVT-designed Bilstein electronic adjustable dampers available on the Performance Package and all-new chassis tuning. The upgraded dampers allowed SVT engineers to tune the convertible more aggressively for the track while still being able to maintain desirable on-road manners.

A new Brembo brake system also is a key enabler in boosting the convertible's performance. The new brakes offer drivers enhanced stopping power to help keep their car under control, while new six-piston calipers in front, along with larger front and rear rotors, further improve braking performance. More aggressive brake pads also help the car achieve high deceleration.

The ’13 Ford Shelby GT500 will be built at AutoAlliance International Plant in Flat Rock, Michigan.