Ford’s next-generation Mustang is around the corner, but Shelby isn’t done injecting more power into the current model. The builder introduced a limited-edition evolution of the GT500 called Code Red that receives a long list of upgrades including a twin-turbocharged V8 capable of making 1,300 horsepower.
Long-time Shelby fans will recognize the name Code Red: it was used in 2008 on a prototype also designed as a twin-turbocharged GT500. Although the model never received the green light for production, the lessons that Shelby learned during the project weren’t consigned to the attic.
“Code Red is designed to be the pinnacle of Shelby Mustangs. While we never put it into production during 2008, many were keen to own one. The current-generation Shelby GT500 is so robust and spectacular that many of the issues we encountered 14 years ago no longer exist,” explained Shelby president Gary Patterson.
The most important changes are under the hood, where Shelby removed the 5.2-liter Voodoo V8’s supercharger and replaced it with two turbochargers. The list of modifications also includes Manley pistons and connecting rods, ARP main and head studs, a Ford Performance engine oil pump gear, a Fathouse Performance intercooler, upgraded fuel pumps, ID1300x fuel injectors, high-flow air filters and three-inch stainless-steel turbo downpipes — this is a serious (and seriously comprehensive) build. All told, the engine develops 1,000 horsepower and 780 pound-feet of torque when burning 93-octane gasoline (way up from 760 and 625, respectively, in the stock GT500), but feeding it E85 increases those figures to 1,300 and 1,000, respectively.
Suspension modifications (including height-adjustable front and rear springs) and performance half-shafts help keep the power in check. Visually, the Code Red stands out from the GT500 with 20-inch forged aluminum wheels, a widebody kit, numerous carbon fiber add-ons (including the hood), and edition-specific emblems. Shelby also added leather upholstery and removed the rear seats.
Shelby will build 30 units of the Code Red (10 each for the 2020, 2021 and 2022 model years), and pricing starts at $209,995 excluding the cost of the donor car, which carries a base price of $80,815 (including $1,395 in destination charges) for 2022. Options include Le Mans-style stripes and painted stripes.
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New 2023 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 will continue with impressive stuff. We know what the 2022MY will bring, so we assume the 2023 model year will bring minor modifications only. Anyway, this supercar is getting some interesting updates. That includes some changes in terms of optional packages and minor upgrades under the skin.
The most exciting update will be the new exterior color palette. Reportedly, this model will arrive with eight new paints, which is great to hear. Without further ado, here’s everything you need to know about the new Mustang Shelby GT500.
New Exterior Paints
As we said, the most exciting upgrade will be the addition of new exterior paints. The 2023 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 will gain eight new colors. For a start, Ford will provide Brittany Blue and Atlas Blue paints. There are also Cyber Orange and Code Orange paints from now on. This model also gets Grabber Blue, Dark Matter Gray, and Mischievous Purple Metallic colors.
The most popular option without any doubt will be the Eruption Green. Whatsoever, the latest spy shots captured the new Shelby GT500 with this color, a few days ago. This supercar will offer up to thirteen different paints, including the currently available Smoke Gray and Ebony colors.
Other Upgrades
New 2023 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 will introduce a couple of upgrades. However, don’t expect a major overhaul or anything similar. Besides new exterior colors, this model will introduce mild visual updates. Moreover, the interior should provide some new technologies, including additional driver-assistance aids.
Furthermore, Shelby will arrive with further mechanical upgrades, resulting in better ride quality and additional power. We also hope to see some changes in terms of packages. Ford will surely offer the current Heritage Package, along with Carbon Fiber Handling Package and other optional kits.
Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 Specs
The 2023 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 will use one of the most powerful engines ever produced by Ford. It is a familiar 5.2-liter Supercharged engine known as Predator. It develops up to 760 horsepower and 625 lb-ft of torque. Blue Oval also provides a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Interestingly, a manual gearbox won’t be on offer at all.
To compare, Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat generates 797 hp and Chevy Camaro ZL1 around 650 hp. Now, Mustang could get even more power, thanks to the latest mechanical upgrades. The current Shelby variant sprints from 0 to 60 mph in only 3.4 seconds.
2023 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 Release Date, Price
The forthcoming 2023 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 will start at around $78,500, which will be a minor increase in terms of price. On the other hand, the GT500KR variant will surely cost closer to $130,000. The sales will begin later in 2022, probably around September. Besides mentioned Dodge Challenger and Chevy Camaro, Mustang will also rival models such as Porsche Cayman and Lamborghini Huracan. The Blue Oval manufacturer will reveal more details in the coming weeks.