This week would have seen Carroll Shelby celebrate his 100th birthday, but the automotive icon passed away in 2012. However, Shelby American is marking the occasion with a limited edition Mustang.
Officially known as the Carroll Shelby Centennial Edition Mustang, the model is based on the 2023 Mustang GT and is available as either a coupe or convertible. Regardless of which body style is selected, the special edition features a Shelby-branded grille, extended front fenders, and a sizeable rear spoiler. The model also sports a ventilated hood, aggressive rockers, special graphics, and 20-inch forged aluminum wheels with a satin black finish.
Moving into the cabin, buyers will find black leather seats with white contrast stitching and a Centennial Edition logo on the headrests. They’re joined by “Shelby” door sill plates, a numbered dash plaque, and floor mats that sport Carroll Shelby’s signature.
Also: The Ford Shelby Mustang GT500KR Returns With Over 900 HP And Carbon Fiber Kit
On the performance front, the car’s 5.0-liter V8 engine has been equipped with a supercharger and a Borla cat-back exhaust. Thanks to these modifications, the output climbs to more than 750 hp (559 kW / 760 PS). It can be connected to either a six-speed manual or a ten-speed automatic transmission.
Sticking with the performance theme, the Centennial Edition comes equipped with a new radiator as well as performance springs and sway bars. Buyers will also find adjustable caster and camber plates as well as Brembo front calipers.
According to Shelby American’s Vince LaViolette, the company wanted to honor the man “properly” so the resulting model is a “well-balanced car that is far more than just a horsepower upgrade.” He went on to note the special edition’s enhanced styling and “sharpened” handling.
Production will be limited to 100 units and it will cost $49,995 to convert a Mustang GT into a Carroll Shelby Centennial Edition – not including the price of the base car. Construction is slated to begin in the second quarter and buyers will receive a commemorative Shelby Centennial Book as well as a black Stetson hat and a Team Shelby membership. The company will also honor Shelby’s commitment to philanthropy by making a donation to the Carroll Shelby Foundation.
