For 2013, all models of the Mustang have received a mild facelift and updates to their trim, but it is the GT500 that received the most serious of advancements. The new GT500 receives an aluminum, supercharged 5.8-liter V-8 engine that produces 650 hp and 600 lb-ft of torque, which is a huge increase compared to 2012 model’s 5.4-liter V-8, which produces only 550 hp and 510 lb-ft of torque. For those that would rather not do the math, that’s about 100 more horsepower and 90 more lb-ft of torque than the 2012 model. Ford calls it the most powerful production V-8 in the world, allowing it to reach a top speed of 202 mph. The new GT500 has a total of 12 more horsepower than the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 and 70 more horsepower than the upcoming Camaro ZL1! To top things off, the 3,850-pound car somehow stays exempt from the high-gas consumption tax.
This new motor features a high-performance cross-drilled engine block and cylinder heads, which is meant to promote better cooling and relieve unnecessary stress off the motor, allowing the V-8 to produce the additional horsepower being mostly supplied by the new TVS Series 2300 supercharger. The larger supercharger is more efficient, allows more air to flow the engine, and is the main factor in helping produce the 650 hp. Other upgrades include updated camshaft profiles; a new carbon-fiber driveshaft; and an upgraded clutch, transmission, axle, and cooling system.
The six-speed manual transmission is also upgraded and features a 3.31:1 final-drive ratio to be more conducive to the newfound torque. The clutch is a dual-disc design, offering an increased torque and rpm capacity. Almost every gear on the 2013 Ford Shelby GT500 was revised to handle the torque and use more of the power in order to make the car more driver-friendly. After considering more than 35 gearing combinations, engineers finally decided on one combination that delivers less torque to the ground to achieve fuel economy targets.
Other factors that improve traction are the Torsen limited-slip differential (available in the optional Performance Package); and the new SVT’s launch control system, which lets drivers set the desired launch rpm. This unique system is integrated with both the engine control and traction control. Another aspect of the improved traction is the six-piston caliper Brembo braking system with larger front and rear rotors.
Engineers have also improved the aerodynamics of the car to help ensure quality performance. Ford says that with the new aerodynamics offers 33 percent more effective aero loading at 160 mph compared to that of the 2011 model.
This vehicle will be offered with Track Apps, which is a computer system that allows drivers to monitor their car’s performance in a variety of ways. Displayed on a 4.2-inch screen in the instrument panel, the system can show ordinary information like vehicle service intervals, fuel economy, etc., but can also show technical gauges for the car’s oil temperature, air-fuel mixture, and transmission temperature. Additionally, another screen allows owners to measure their acceleration and braking performance.
Ford likes providing its customers with options, so they are offering not one, but two new optional packages on the 2013 model. The first is the Performance Package, which includes the SVT-designed Bilstein electronic adjustable dampers, easily accessed with a simple push of a button on the dash. Normal mode gives customers a more comfortable ride over uneven or irregular roads. Sport mode is all about performance and will allow the GT500 to pull over 1.0 g of steady cornering grip. The Torsen limited-slip differential also comes with the Performance Package.
Enthusiastic customers can upgrade their Performance Package even more with an additional Track Package for superior performance. This option comes with an external engine oil cooler, rear differential cooler, and transmission cooler for further durability.
| Vehicle Specs | ||
| Base Price | $60,000 (estimated) | |
| Engine | 5.8-liter supercharged V-8 | |
| Horsepower | 650 hp | |
| Torque | 600 lb-ft | |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual | |
| 0–60 mph | Less than 4 seconds (estimated) | |
| Top Speed | 202 mph | |
| Weight | 3,850 lb | |
| Length | 188 inches | |
| Tires | Front: 255/40ZR-19 Rear: 285/35ZR-19 | |
| FOR | Most powerful production V-8, revised design | |