We know that there is a great following surrounding the Ford Mustang, and more specifically, the Shelby GT500. That’s why we’re excited to share the latest news about the 2020 Shelby GT500!
The most powerful street-legal Ford ever built can achieve 0-100-0 in 10.6 seconds. The Shelby GT500 sends drivers on a visceral driving experience typically reserved for exotic supercars thanks to its 760-horsepower engine, ultra-quick Tremec 7-speed dual-clutch transmission and the largest front brakes of any domestic sports coupe.
Beyond the raw power and ultra-fast shifts, advanced control systems optimize the capabilities of the chassis and powertrain to create distinct drive modes – or personalities – to get the maximum performance from every aspect of the Shelby GT500 performance hardware.
“The range of brute-force drag acceleration, seamless road shifts and amazingly smooth shifts on the track further highlights how the soul of the Shelby GT500 is elevated in our most advanced Mustang ever,” said Ed Krenz, Ford Performance chief program engineer. “Effortlessly handling the 760 horsepower is our segment-first Tremec dual-clutch transmission, with an advanced control system that enhances GT500’s five drive modes to deliver a driving experience once reserved only for exotic supercars.”
In a Clutch!
Its first-in-class 7-speed dual-clutch transmission delivers more consistent power and torque compared to manual transmissions, while its computer-controlled mechanism can upshift as quick as 80 milliseconds – faster than a blink of an eye – making it the most capable Mustang powertrain ever.
“In many ways, this is like having two transmissions in one,” said Pat Morgan, Ford Performance powertrain manager. “On one hand, it enables performance at the outer reaches of straight-line quickness with minimal torque interruption, yet provides an incredible amount of finesse and control in track environments for maximum stability and predictability at the limits of lateral acceleration.
Drive-Mode Engage
Shelby GT500’s five drive modes fully optimize the capabilities of the dual-clutch transmission and active chassis systems – from ultra-smooth road shifts in normal mode to forceful powershifts in drag mode – providing a personality for every type of performance driving.
“Every aspect of the Shelby GT500 driving experience changes with the mode – be that the throttle responsiveness and snap of the shifts you feel in the seat of your pants, or the ‘pop and burble’ of the exhaust in performance modes. It’s a full multisensory visceral experience,” said Morgan.
Power output is transmitted to the 3.73:1 Torsen limited-slip independent rear suspension via a carbon fiber driveshaft for reduced rotational mass and torsional distortion, plus larger halfshafts and a redesigned rear suspension hub for added strength.
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