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Old 06-21-2006, 02:32 PM   #1
nthfinity
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Join Date: Jan 2004
Location: Detroit
Posts: 9,929
Default Ford Shelby GT500

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Introduction :
It started back in late 2004 with the introduction of the first all new Mustang in over 20 years, and immediate thoughts floating around in enthusiasts heads about what the next SVT Cobra might be. Roumors abound by its engine, its power, its displacement for two full years before we were told the realities about it. Now, just a few months away from consumer availability, we know the truth about this car.


Exterior:
The shape cannot be mistaken for anything else on the street, save another Mustang. But, a second glance shows this is no tuner body kitted pony car; but something much more sinister, with its more aggressive, and aerodynamically functional front facia, the aluminum hood, and the rear spoiler.

The whole car is so extremely solid, one might think this car is more atune to the stiffness of Keanu Reeves, rather then the loose and often face-lifted whacko-Jacko.... In fact, this might actually be a stolen German chassis! It is that solid.


Interior :
When comparing the interior against the Mustang GT, these two cars couldn't be more different then everso, and RC45. The 05+ GT holds a cirtain nastalgia about its design; yet is not as accute as what might be expected of a modern car. For example, the dials are easy to read on the new Cobra.

The color schemes seem to work well, I particularly like the red on black style, with the visible red stitching giving a higher quality feel. The seats are compfortable, and work much better in keeping your ass in place then the GT does.

The rear seats are just as compfortable as the front; but when standing at 6'2", I have a slight issue with being compfortable for a long haul.


How does it drive?
How do you think? Raw speed isn't that much further ahead of the 03/04 SVT Cobras, but usable power is even higher, thanks to the FGT Aluminum heads, and the extra displacement of the 5.4 Liter engine. What does this mean? You don't have to downshift to eat your local Civics, and Trans Ams alive, kicking and screaming


The steering is much more direct then the 03/04 Cobra and also much more immediate. I take this down to both good geometries, as well as having more then 3x as much chassis regidity as the previous generation.

Handling is eons above the 03/04 IRS Cobra... In fact, its suprising how much so, mid corner speeds are much higher. It is suprising that Ford could make this car handle as good as it does for being a 3900 lb. car. Well done!.


What are the most positive features of the car?
Handling, Power, Solid feel, and the sound! OH the sound!




What are the most negative features of the car?
You cannot buy one yet. It is a heavy car.

How do you think this car compares to its direct competition?
Nothing touches the Mustang Shelby GT500. Perhaps in a year, others will be close (a roumoured SRT-8 Challenger, and the roumored Camaro SS) As much as everybody knows that the number one reason why people buy the GT500/Cobra is because they couldn't get a Corvette... this car isn't the same as one. But... on the street, where everything counts, the better driver will win.


Conclusion
The car that will be the fastest from Ford for the interim without a supercar for sale.... the most accessible 500 hp you will find anywhere.

Specifications
500 hp/ 475 ft. lbs.
3900 or so lbs.
T 56 6 speed
5.4 liter supercharged DOHC V8
157 mph top speed

© 2006 ~Isaac
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