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Shelby GT500 40th Anniversary Special Edition
Posted November 3, 2006 12:43 PM by Matt Humphries.
The year 2007 marks the 40th anniversary of the Shelby GT500 and Shelby Automobiles, Inc. has decided to honor this special occasion with their new Limited Edition GT500. Based on a 2007 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500, Shelby adds some of their own touches to make the anniversary edition stand out from the rest. The have upgraded the suspension, enhanced the exterior, and as if 500 horsepower stock wasn't enough, they have even added more power.
The 40th Anniversary Limited Edition first catches an onlooker's attention with its exterior upgrades. The GT500 receives a new carbon fiber front fascia splitter, carbon fiber mirror covers, aluminum grills, and front and rear brake vents. Optional 20 inch American Racing wheels fill the fender wells, while a set of special anniversary stripes split the car down the middle. Anniversary badges appear on certain sections of the body, letting everyone know that there is something special about these cars. Convertible models also receive a light bar that is reminiscent of the past GT500.
Inside the GT500, aluminum accents give a classic look and the carbon fiber theme is continued onto a set of three gauges that monitor boost, oil pressure, and fuel pressure. A numbered plaque reminds owners which GT500 they own, as well as a numbered set of door sill plates.
In the horsepower department, Shelby gains more power by fitting a free flowing Borla cat back exhaust system to the car. This also helps to provide a respect-demanding exhaust note that will let everyone know you have arrived. Shelby also mentioned that they have further upgrade plans for these vehicles as well, as they realize people will always long for more power. Under the hood, more aluminum accents are placed to give the car a cleaner look.
The suspension receives attention in the form of a Shelby/Eibach developed coil over system that lowers the GT500's center of gravity. The front drops about .8 inches, while the rear sees a 1.6 inch drop. Larger diameter sway bars were added to reduce body roll. The well thought out suspension combination allows a driver to have a great handling ride, while not sacrificing comfort.
If a driver decides that the normal GT500 isn't quite enough, the Shelby will definitely set them apart from the rest. The limited edition will not be available until the first quarter of 2007, but it will surely be worth the wait. Stay with RPM Planets and Planet Mustang for more news on the GT500 as the release date approaches.
