A Powerful Mustang
The real nitty-gritty of the Shelby GT, of course, is what’s beneath its hood. The 2008 Shelby GT features a 4.6-liter V8 engine capable of cranking out 319 hp and 330 lb.-ft. of torque. It also features a high-flow exhaust system with an X-pipe crossover and dual exhaust tips to match. This set up offers improved power delivery accompanied by a deep, and seriously menacing, exhaust tone.The 2008 Shelby GT is also equipped with a Ford Racing Handling Pack. This set up features special-tuned dampers, unique sway bars, and a 3.55:1 ratio rear axle assembly. The result is improved acceleration power and better handling capabilities. In addition, the Shelby GT features a lowered overall ride height so it can hug the road tightly. It is also equipped with a front strut-tower brace that adds additional strength to the chassis structure.
Interior Stylings
The cockpit of the 2008 Shelby GT was also designed with performance in mind. For instance, the 5-speed manual transmission Shelby GT features a Hurst short-throw shifter, designed to improve shifting when in performance driving conditions. Those stick-shift inclined need not fear. Unlike the Shelby GT500 and GT500K, the Shelby GT is available with either a manual or automatic transmission. All Shelby GTs also come with an authentication plate on the center dashboard in addition to a matching Shelby tag under the hood.
Pricing
In 2008, Ford predicts that only 2,300 2008 Shelby GT coupes and convertibles will be built. This low production number means that most pricing figures will mean little to nothing. As often goes, the new 2008 Shelby GT will most likely go to the highest bidder. Last year’s model began around the $35,000 mark. If you can still get your hands on one, after reading this, expect to pay top dollar for this piece of Mustang history.
Final Take
In all, Mustang enthusiasts should be delighted at the return of the Shelby GT. As with the previous year’s model, the Shelby GT truly is a collector’s car. It’s the subtle performance enhancements and the refined creature comforts that make the Shelby GT stand apart from other Mustangs.For the power-hungry enthusiast, Ford will offer the Shelby GT500 in 2008, as well as the Shelby GT500KR ‘King of the Road’ Mustang. The GT500 will be available in larger quantities (an estimated 10,000 units) than the standard Shelby GT. The 500KR will be very limited, with an estimated 1,000 units scheduled for production. Both the GT500 and GT500KR will feature engines capable of outputting more than 500 hp. The 500KR is being touted as the most powerful production Mustang ever to hit the streets.
2008 Ford Mustang Preview
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What's New for 2008
2008 Bullitt Mustang
2008 Warriors in Pink Mustang
2008 Mustang Shelby GT
2008 Mustang Shelby GT500
2008 Mustang Shelby GT500KR
Source: Ford Motor Company
