Leaked: 2011 Shelby GT500 order book

The 2011 Ford Mustang is out for blood with two new, more powerful engines this year, but the hottest factory model, the GT500, is poised to strike as well. A leaked product ordering guide reveals the key changes that are coming, including a new SVT performance package.

The updates to the 2011 Shelby GT500 follow along with the upgrades to the regular Mustang, though the 5.0-liter V-8 engine doesn't join the party--that's the 2011 Shelby GT350's role--instead going with a new aluminum-block version of the 5.4-liter supercharged V-8 engine found in previous GT500s. Official horsepower and torque ratings for the engine are still in the mist, however, listed as "TBD" in the order book. We expect the engine to turn out at least the 540 horsepower and 510 pound-feet we saw in the iron-block 2010 model.

Available in both Coupe and Convertible models, the 2011 Shelby GT500 promises to be as good a tire-roaster as ever, but with the addition of the new SVT performance package, it'll handle hard driving as well. A 3.73-ratio limited slip rear axle, unique 19/20-by-9.5-inch front/rear wheels, and custom shocks and springs will help the big and brawny beast put its power to the ground and around the corners. Other upgrades with the SVT pack include unique stripes along the top and sides, a spoiler with a Gurney flap, a shift knob and upgraded Z-rated tires. Opt for the SVT pack and you'll have to do without the Shaker 1000 audio system, but the big V-8's force-fed whine will be music enough for anyone interested in SVT performance anyway.



Other changes for the 2011 GT500 include new Race Red and Ingot Silver Metallic paint colors, replacing the Torch Red and Brilliant Silver Metallic of the 2010 models. Other key exterior cues for the 2011 model include a coiled Cobra badge on the grille and front fenders, an aluminum power-dome hood with working heat extractors, redesigned front and rear bumper clips, plus a rear diffuser and decklid spoiler. 19-inch alloy wheels are standard, as are Goodyear Eagle F1 Supercar tires in 255/40 front and 285/35 rear sizes. A glass roof is a new option added to the Coupe, previously only available on the standard Mustang GT.

HID headlamps are also standard this year, along with electric power-assist steering, a single-CD option for the Shaker 500 and Shaker 1000 stereos, and an integrated spotter mirror on the wing mirrors. HD Radio is also now included in the Electronics Package.

For the full details of what's coming, check out the specs in the gallery above, and don't forget our look at the mullet-inducing, wild and woolly 2010 Shelby GT500 Convertible for comparison.


[MotorAuthority]