Some said it would be unveiled at the Detroit Motor Show while others that it was doubtful whether it would get the full 650HP V8 treatment of the tin-top model. All we know is that Ford proved them all wrong today with unveiling the 2013 Shelby GT500 Convertible that debuts at the Chicago Motor Show.
Ford says that it chose the Windy City show instead of a more high-profile show like Detroit because 20 years ago, it launched its Special Vehicles Team at the same venue. And to make sure that the car’s owners don’t forget it, it added SVT commemorative lighted sill plates.
The 1993 SVT Mustang Cobra (which, along with the F-150 Lighting, launched Ford’s performance division) delivered 235 HP from its 5.0-liter V8. Today’s Shelby GT500 is a whopping 415 HP more powerful, proving that the horsepower game has moved on significantly these days. The result is an output of 650 ponies and 600 lb-ft of torque.
“The Shelby GT500 convertible is every bit the performer that the coupe is”, said SVT Global Performance Vehicles chief engineer Kerry Baldori. “All of the significant changes we made in the program were instrumental in delivering a convertible that could really shine on the track but still be driven on a daily basis.”
According to Ford, when fitted with the optional Performance Package which includes Bilstein electronically adjustable dampers, the open-top Shelby GT500 laps the Sebring circuit nearly 3.5 seconds faster than the outgoing model.
Buyers can also opt for the upgraded Track Package that adds an external engine oil cooler, rear differential cooler and transmission cooler.
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