2012 Shelby GT500
The Tribute Car
In Remembrance
In early 2022, my father died unexpectedly. He was easily one of my most favorite people, and losing him has been unimaginably hard.
He touched my life in countless ways, including fueling my passion for cars. This 2012 Shelby GT500 was his car, something that he wanted for a long time, and worked hard to get.
It has been passed on to me and I intend to cherish it forever.
Vehicle Specs
The 2012 Shelby GT500 is powered by a 5.4-liter supercharged V8 engine, producing 550 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque. The supercharger whine is nothing short of infectious.
Overview
The 2012 Shelby GT500, developed in collaboration with Shelby American is known for its impressive performance and distinctive styling. I've owned two other Mustangs in my life, a 2002 Mustang GT and a 2010 Mustang GT, and the Shelby GT500 has always been a bit of a dream "someday" car for me.
Here are some interesting facts about the 2012 Shelby GT500:
Shelby American Legacy. The GT500 continued the legacy of collaboration between Ford and Shelby American, a partnership that dates back to the 1960s. The Shelby name is synonymous with high-performance Ford vehicles, and the 2012 GT500 is a modern representation of that heritage. As time goes on, the 2012 Shelby GT500 is likely to become increasingly collectible due to its performance, limited production run, its place in the lineage of Shelby Mustangs, and its embodiment of American muscle car heritage.
Supercharged V8 Engine. With its potent engine, the 2012 GT500 can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.1 seconds and has a top speed of over 180 mph, making it one of the fastest production Mustangs at the time.
Track Records: The GT500 was not just a straight-line performer; it was also capable on the track. Various automotive reviewers and enthusiasts praised the car for its surprising agility and handling prowess, considering its size and power.
Exterior Styling. The GT500 featured unique styling cues that distinguished it from other Mustang models, including a larger front grille, special alloy wheels, a distinctive rear spoiler, and the iconic Cobra badge. These elements not only enhanced the car's appearance but also improved its aerodynamic performance.
Interior Upgrades.The GT500 has Recaro seats with embossed Cobra logos, a unique instrument cluster, and an optional electronics package that added a navigation system and dual-zone climate control, among other features.
Aftermarket Support. The GT500 has a strong following in the aftermarket community, with numerous upgrades available for performance, handling, and aesthetics. Owners can enhance their cars significantly beyond the already impressive factory specifications.
Transmission. The 2012 Shelby GT500 came equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission, which was specifically tuned to handle the high torque output of the supercharged engine, providing drivers with a hands-on, engaging driving experience.
Sound. The exhaust system of the GT500 was finely tuned to deliver a distinctive, aggressive roar that announced its presence and performance pedigree. This sound was a key part of the vehicle's appeal, providing an auditory experience that matched its physical prowess.
Summary
The 2012 Shelby GT500 is a testament to the enduring appeal of the muscle car and the ongoing legacy of the Shelby name in American automotive culture. It blends raw power with a degree of sophistication, making it a standout vehicle for performance enthusiasts.
The Good
The 2012 Shelby GT500, with it's high-horsepower engine, addictive sounds coming from the supercharger and exhaust, and 6-speed manual transmission is the modern day muscle car.
The Bad
If you push the car too hard, no one is coming to save you.
Be sure to check out the other vehicles in my garage
Do you want to know more about my fleet of vehicles – What mods have I done? What episodes of TSTDRVR are they in? Look no further.
