Shelby Channel's GT’s Spirit with new Shelby GTS Mustang at New York International Auto Show
After laying dormant for more than a generation Shelby revived its legendary Mustang GT derivative in 2006 with the Shelby GT-H. The GT-H paid homage to the 40th anniversary of the infamous 1966 Shelby GT350H, Hertz Rental Car. Like the original GT350 the GT-H and Shelby GT models were slightly worked over Mustang GT models. While the two cars had a scant 25 more horsepower than the stock GT the vast improvements were made to the brakes and suspension. The two models were priced starting at $10,000 more than the stock GT. The new 2011-2012 GTS looks to recapture the same (relatively) low cost approach by offer both V8 and V6 models.
New Shelby GT, GT500, GT500KR, Super Snake, GT350 models have appeared in quick secession due to the GT-H’s popularity on the sales floor, but more importantly on the track. The Shelby has dominated Sport Car Club of America’s (SCCA) T2 class since early 2007. The GTS will be offered post title, or as an after the purchase add on package for as little as $9,995.00.
“The Ford Shelby GT was introduced in 2007 as an agile, reliable and affordable muscle car,” said John Luft, president of Shelby American Inc. “It dominated its SCCA racing class and was a popular canvas for enthusiasts to create their dream Shelby. Our Shelby GTS picks up that mantle and expands upon it with a choice of V6 or V8 power for a new generation of Shelby enthusiast who wants a car built just for them.”
Ever since Ford introduced the 3.7L V6 and 5.0L V8 Mustang for the 2011 model year, the Shelby research and development team has been secretly developing the GTS package. Once the Shelby GT350 was finalized in both coupe and convertible versions, the skunkworks team accelerated the project. Working with partners at Ford Racing, Borla and Baer, Shelby American enhanced the car’s suspension, strengthened the braking and coaxed more power out of the engine.
“The V6 Mustang is a particularly good platform for the Shelby GTS,” noted Shelby American vice president of operations Gary Patterson. “It’s even lighter and more nimble than the GT. And the V6 Shelby GTS makes about as much horsepower as the V8 in the Ford Shelby GT, but with better fuel economy at a lower price.”
The post-title package starts at $9,995.00, not including the base car. Superchargers and other options are available that allow buyers to personalize their dream Shelby. A limited number of the Shelby GTS will be built with reservations starting April 21; production is scheduled to begin in the fourth quarter of 2011.
The 2012 Ford Shelby GTS post-title package includes:
• Ford Racing handling pack including new springs, tuned stabilizer bars and front strut tower brace
• Fresh air package for the normally aspirated V6 tune or V8
• Borla exhaust system
• Shelby / Baer brakes
• Unique deep draw hood featuring classic Shelby design
• Black billet upper grill with Ford “Running Pony” emblem
• Unique Shelby front fascias
• Shelby LeMans stripes and side stripes
• “Shelby GTS” vehicle badges and official Shelby CSM interior plate
• “Powered by Ford” side badges
• “Shelby” lettering across the rear deck lid
The many options available include:
• Shelby superchargers for both V8 and V6 models
• 6 piston Shelby/Baer Brakes
• Adjustable control arms
• 18” to 20” wheels and tire packages
• Watts link rear suspension
• Two tone leather interior
“Our Shelby GTS is a fantastic way to pump up the capabilities of a stock Mustang within a budget without sacrificing performance,” added Mr. Luft. “It’s a car that reaches a younger buyer while acknowledging the economic realities of our times.”
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