Back in 1967, the regular Ford Mustang Fastback used to cost $2,500. For $4,200, though, you could have the Shelby GT500, with its 7.0-liter V8 pumping out 355 horsepower.
Compared to its ancestor, the new Mustang Shelby GT500 looks and feels like a spaceship. It enjoys a massive 760 HP produced by a 5.2-liter, supercharged V8, which makes it the most powerful street-legal Ford ever. Nought to 60 mph (0-60 mph) takes 3.5 seconds and it can run the quarter-mile in less than 11 seconds.
Video: 2020 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 First Reviews Are In, Here’s What They’re Saying
Channeling the output to the rear wheels is a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission that can change gears in a mere 80 milliseconds and is tuned for both road- and track-use. The old Shelby GT500, on the other hand, rocks a 3-speed auto, and will do 50-60 mph (80-96 km/h) in first gear. If you know what you’re doing behind the wheel, then you could run the 1/4-mile in 14-15 seconds, at well over 90 mph (145 km/h).
To put things into perspective, TFLClassics checked out the classic GT500 during the new car’s media launch. And since its value is estimated at $110,000, the organizers took no risks and put an experienced driver behind the wheel to demonstrate what the 52-year old ‘Stang can do. Despite not seeing the two go head-to-head, it’s a nice history lesson that shows how far cars have come over the last five decades – and, at the same time, makes us wonder where will we be 50 years from now, with the electric and autonomous revolution that will shake up the auto industry.