The Evolution of Muscle: The New Shelby Mustang

Approximately a year ago, the automotive world buzzed with rumors that Ford was secretly testing a new iteration of the Shelby GT500, with versions in both coupe and convertible configurations. This speculation was fueled by sightings and insider reports, setting the stage for high expectations among enthusiasts and industry watchers alike.

More recently, the anticipation intensified when an updated prototype of the S650 Mustang was observed in the vicinity of Shelby American's headquarters in Las Vegas. This sighting not only confirmed the ongoing development, but also hinted at significant advancements over previous models.

Responding to the growing excitement, Shelby American has begun to officially tease this highly awaited project on various social media platforms. They have announced that the vehicle, based on the S650 model, will make its debut on April 18, 2024. This strategic reveal is set to showcase the next chapter in the storied legacy of Shelby Mustangs.

Though the official name of this new Shelby Mustang remains under wraps, the clues are pointing strongly towards it being the newest incarnation of the Super Snake—a name synonymous with extreme performance and cutting-edge Mustang enhancements. The Super Snake variant has historically represented the pinnacle of Shelby's engineering and design prowess, embodying a blend of muscular aesthetics and formidable power.

As the reveal date approaches, the community remains abuzz with speculation and high expectations. Fans and potential buyers are keenly waiting to see how the latest technologies and design modifications will be integrated into this iconic series. The new Super Snake promises to continue the tradition of delivering high-performance vehicles that are not only powerful, but also uniquely styled to stand out on both the road and the track.

The latest teasers from Shelby American provide an exhilarating glimpse into what lies at the heart of the new Shelby Mustang—the robust 5.0-liter Coyote V8 engine, now supercharged with a Whipple supercharger. This powerhouse of an engine promises to deliver exceptional performance and exhilarating speed, aligning with the Shelby legacy of muscle and might.

Further images deepen the intrigue, showcasing the Mustang's aggressive new aesthetics. The Shelby branding is prominently displayed on a duck-billed trunk lid, an innovative design that complements the functional carbon fiber wing mounted on top. This setup not only enhances the vehicle's visual appeal, but also improves its aerodynamic profile, crucial for high-speed stability.

The front of the car is equipped with a large splitter and a completely redesigned bumper, designed to optimize airflow around the vehicle. This design reduces drag and enhances cooling, which is crucial for maintaining peak performance in high-powered engines, such as the supercharged V8.

A closer inspection of the front reveals cleverly integrated design elements, such as dark trim around the headlights that conceals subtle air intakes. While their functionality remains to be confirmed, their potential role in further enhancing engine cooling or aerodynamic efficiency cannot be overlooked.

Hood pins ensure the engine bay remains secure under high-performance conditions, while vented front fenders aid in dissipating heat. The manual transmission features a unique white cue ball gear knob, appealing to those who prefer a tactile driving experience. Additionally, the likely forged bronze wheels enhance the car's appearance while offering the strength and lighter weight essential for racing.

These meticulously designed components and enhancements signal that the new Shelby Mustang is engineered with a clear focus on track performance. It aims to attract and satisfy driving enthusiasts who crave a visceral driving experience coupled with iconic styling and modern technology.

1. 1967 Original Super Snake: The story begins in 1967 when Carroll Shelby built a one-off Mustang known as the GT500 Super Snake. This car was designed to showcase the potential of the Mustang in a high-speed endurance setting. It featured a modified 428 cubic-inch V8 engine and was tested at speeds of up to 170 mph. This original Super Snake was an experimental model, and only one was ever made, making it extraordinarily rare and valuable.
2. 2007 Revival: Forty years later, in 2007, Shelby American revived the Super Snake name for a new special edition based on the 2007 Ford Mustang. This version included substantial upgrades in performance including enhanced engines, superior handling, and distinctive cosmetic updates. The revival models could be equipped with up to 750 horsepower, depending on customer preference.
3. Continued Evolution and Models: Over the years, Shelby has continued to release new iterations of the Super Snake, each featuring various improvements and power increases. Versions based on the 2011, 2012, and subsequent Mustang model years incorporated even more aggressive performance tuning and styling enhancements. These models typically feature supercharged engines, upgraded suspension systems, and distinctive Shelby branding.
4. 50th Anniversary Edition: In 2017, to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the original 1967 model, Shelby released a special edition Super Snake with options for even more power, reaching up to 750 horsepower. This model also featured unique styling cues reminiscent of the original 1967 Super Snake.
5. Modern Versions: The latest versions of the Shelby Super Snake continue to push the boundaries of Mustang performance. They offer supercharged V8 engines, advanced aerodynamics, and modern technology, making them capable of competing with the world's best sports cars both on and off the track.

The full details of the upgrades will be unveiled at a Barrett-Jackson auction later this month. This is notably the same venue where the 2013-2014 Shelby GT500 Super Snake was first introduced in 2012. At the upcoming reveal, we expect to learn how the new design enhancements contribute to improved aerodynamics. Additionally, details about the vehicle's power output and an in-depth look at the sueded leather interior will likely be provided. While it's uncertain if the pricing will be disclosed at the event, Shelby-branded Mustangs are traditionally some of the priciest Ford models available. Given the anticipated limited production, potential buyers should be prepared for a high price tag.