2010 Shelby GT500 back in action for Detroit show

The Ford Shelby GT500 returns in the upgraded Mustang shell, with more power and refinement. It comes in coupe and convertible trims.

Worked on by Ford’s SVT team, the 2010 Shelby GT500 is powered by a supercharged and intercooled 5.4L V8 engine estimated at 540 hp and 510 lb-ft of torque, redlining is 6250 rpm. The aluminum “power dome” hood has holes in it to help cool the engine, and hides a conical air filter for the cold-air intake, which necessitated moving the Cobra snake badge to the other side of the grille for 2010, to maximize airflow. The Shelby’s distinct supercharger sounds has been reduced, with a resonator between the air filter and engine throttle body.

The transmission is a 6-speed manual, with a new final drive ratio changed from 3.31 to 3.55 for better acceleration. The twin-disc clutch on the transmission has been upgraded to improve drivability. The discs on the 2010 Shelby GT500 are larger, and made of copper and fiberglass for strength. The suspension system remains independent at the front and live-axle at the rear. Brakes, suspension and steering have also been improved. However, all the improvements have pushed its weight to as high as 3900 lbs.

The GT500 gets Goodyear F1 Supercar tires and aluminum wheels. The coupe gets forged 19-inch rims while the convertible gets cast 18-inch ones. Our guess is the open-top version probably can’t handle the extra harshness created by the lower-profile tires on the larger wheels due to lesser body rigidity.

The 2010 Shelby GT500 features AdvanceTrac, Ford’s stability control system with several options. The default “on” mode accommodates every-day driving, and a Sport mode delivers for those wanting to put the Shelby GT500 through its paces on the track. The system also can be turned completely off, although the anti-lock brake system and other active safety systems remain in place. Standard safety equipment includes dual front airbags, side-impact airbags and more.

Numerous aerodynamic upgrades, including a redesigned splitter, were made to the front end of the 2010 Shelby GT500. A revised duck-tail spoiler sits at the edge of the trunk lid. A non-functioning diffuser on the rear bumper integrates big exhaust tips, each 4 inches in diameter. In their attempt to be artsy, Ford forgot to take any proper photos of the rear for now.

Using genuine materials such as real leather in all seats, real aluminum on the instrument panel and Alcantara inserts on the seats and steering wheel, the cabin is much more upscale than in any previous Mustang. Cabin features include Ford’s SYNC voice-activated hands-free in-car communication and entertainment system, with Bluetooth, OnStar-style 911 service, and the ability to send vehicle ‘health’ reports to Ford. The Ambient Lighting System allows drivers to customize the interior lighting of the vehicle to suit their mood. The enhanced MyColor system features seven base colors, and owners also can create 125 custom colors by mixing the red-green-blue palette. A navigation system is optional in American markets.

The 2010 Shelby GT500 will publicly debut at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show this month. It will be in dealer showrooms before summer next year.

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