How does an extra 200 horsepower sound compared to the 300-hp Mustang GT? Ford’s Shelby GT500 is the successor to previous Cobra models and fills the spot of an over-the-top, more powerful Mustang, just as did the model that the previous Cobra name represented.
The additional power on the GT500 comes compliments of a larger engine, and, of course, a supercharger huffing plenty of boost into the 5.4-liter V-8. The 500 hp gets channeled through only one transmission option, a six-speed manual; the Mustang GT uses a five-speed manual or an automatic transmission.
You’ll be able to spot a GT500 coming down the road from its plentiful GT500 and Cobra snake markings. Compared to the Mustang GT, the GT500 has hood scoops and a big, aggressively styled front bumper, as well as unique rims, spoiler and rear bumper. Other differences include a lower stance with its performance-tuned suspension that includes reworked shocks, springs and sway bars. Stopping power comes from high-performance Brembo brakes.
If one model of the GT500 isn’t enough for you, there’s two more coming soon that offer even scarier power: The 540-hp GT500KR and a 600-plus-hp GT500 Super Snake.
As expected, you pay for that extra power and status to drive a Shelby; the 2008 Shelby GT500 hits the pocketbook at a starting price of $41,930, compared to the Mustang GT’s $25,840 starting price.
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Ray,
I think Joe clearly states the GT500 is the successor to the Cobra.
Also while there are some dealers out there putting markups on the GT500 I found 7 brand new 2008 GT500s in my area (Chicago) using Cars.com's new car inventory search for the listed MSRP with no markup.
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No Mustang "Cobras" are currently being made and while the Shelby GT500 is rated 500HP, the standard Shelby GT is 320HP (319HP for 2008). Also of note: all Shelbys have a tremendous dealer mark up... expect the new GT500 to sell for nearly $80k (info from Ford saleman) which makes it prohibitively expensive for most drivers.