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The 2021 Shelby GT500 Mustang®

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The 2021 Shelby GT500 Mustang®

Ford Motor Company North American Track Tour at Texas Motor Speedway was an incredible experience. First, let me just go into what was assembled in order to show a group of journalists what the car is made of. A large tent encompassed all the specific parts of the new Shelby Mustang GT500® and it summarized this car’s legendary direction. With this vehicle you can drive to work every day, and then play around on the weekends. 

The program started with an introduction to Carroll Shelby (as if one were needed) and his history with Ford. Then we went through every piece of the vehicle that makes it so great, and after that we got to the track. They supplied new helmets and GoPros on the dash, so when you were running around the track it was cool and everything came together. 

First, let’s take the power: 760 HP is enough(!) power to go as fast as you need to go; this, friends,  will be a ticket getter. It also has an exhaust note to die for, but for me the most amazing part of the vehicle was the transmission, an 8-speed dual-clutch design. The brakes are so harmonious, and the steering it is just incredible. As we took off around the track at top speed, I hit 118 mph; that was just fine with me, as I did not need to go any faster. But it did show just how quickly when you came to a corner you need to slow down. You touch the brakes, the transmission shifts down quickly and you make a good, comfortable turn. 

Inside, this is a Mustang with all the features, including a great B&O® sound system and everything else. Seats in the vehicle were Recaros. Everyone knows Recaro® seats are the choice of many racers, and they are outstanding. Brakes are a 6-piston design, and wheels are carbon fiber and shod with Continental tires, which are outstanding. Optional packages that you can order include a carbon fiber handling package, which adds $10K; a track package, which adds $18,500; and a handling package. That’s the bargain at $1750. The GT500 starts at $74,900.

I don’t think I’ve ever been so comfortable in a vehicle running around a track and having just a great time. I had absolutely no stress at any time, as it took the corners with little effort and zoomed down the track like a bat out of hell. And while you don’t buy a GT500 for its mileage, think 12 or 13 in the city and maybe (MAYBE!) 18 on the highway. 

I have included several pictures, but you have to drive this Shelby to appreciate just how great this vehicle is. From the first Shelby Mustang in 1965 to the 2021 Shelby Mustang GT500 56 years later, how utterly sweet it is.

Classic Ford Truck Enthusiast and Owner. Shadowed Bill Stroppe, Off Road Legend. Former Sony Corporation of America Regional Manager. Former Ford Motor Company Regional Manager, Southwest.

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