It's an instant collectible.
Enter the domain of the Shelby GT500 Code Red: the ultimate power-packed pony that has galloped into the annals of automotive history. With an incredibly limited release of only 30 vehicles, the GT500 Code Red not only sets a new benchmark for muscle cars but also earns its title as the most potent Shelby ever crafted.
At first glance, you're met with an aggressive stance, widebody modifications, and custom badges that signify this is no ordinary Mustang. The addition of a carbon-fiber hood not only enhances its visual appeal but promises performance capabilities that could rival even some of the most revered hypercars.
As the moniker suggests, the GT500 Code Red is a fiery steed under the hood. With a mind-boggling 1,300 horsepower when running on E85 Ethanol, Shelby's latest marvel brings the term 'muscle car' to a whole new realm. This power is thanks to an inter-cooled twin-turbocharger setup – marking the brand's first foray into the world of twin-turbocharged production cars.
The journey of experimental cars at Shelby is storied. From the mythical 1967 Little Red, which was found in a dilapidated state in Texas only to be restored to its past glory, to the 1967 Super Snake that fetched a staggering $2.2 million at auction in 2019, the legacy is vast. The GT500 Code Red's immediate predecessor, the 2008 version, boasted over 900 horsepower but was considered 'too wild' for its era. Times have changed, and now, with advancements in technology, that 'wild' has been tamed and introduced as the Code Red.
Visually, the 2022 GT500 Code Red is sheer intimidation. Its widebody design isn't merely for show—it allows for enhanced grip, thanks to the wider wheels, enveloped in Michelin tires. These improvements, coupled with Shelby/Baer brakes, promise unprecedented control, crucial for a car with such formidable power.
Beyond the visuals, the engine compartment hides a treasure trove of technological marvels. Think billet fuel rails, upgraded fuel pumps, and ID1300x injectors to ensure that the 5.2-liter V8 beast gets its fuel precisely when it demands it. All of these are orchestrated beautifully by the MoTec engine management system, ensuring that this symphony of raw power performs without missing a beat.
Shelby's GT500 Code Red is a testament to pushing boundaries in the world of muscle cars. It isn't just about the pure power. It's the culmination of heritage, technological prowess, and a testament to what can be achieved when innovation meets passion.
In the end, it's not just a car; it's an experience. And for the fortunate thirty, it's an experience that will redefine what it means to own a muscle car. The Shelby GT500 Code Red: where history, power, and prestige converge.