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Here's what Ford is saying: "'Better' is the operative word when describing the 2010 Ford Shelby GT500." You know what? They're right. Whether your measurement be horsepower, torque, or fuel economy, the 2010 Shelby GT500 beats the outgoing model handily, and it does it through a combination of refinements and clever innovations.
First of all, the basic specifications: 540 horsepower (up 40 over last year); 510 ft-lb of torque (up 30 over last year); and 14 mpg city/22 highway (up 2 over last year). So how'd they do it? The power improvements come in large part to a new cool-air induction system that is a refined version of the one found on the GT500KR. Also, revised engine calibration and a new dual-knock sensor system help the engine burn fuel more efficiently and puts the torque power band right at the 3,000 RPM mark and the redline is 6,250 RPM.
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2010 Ford Shelby GT500 Mustang Coupe |
The method of getting that power to the wheels has also seen significant improvements. The two-disk clutch system has received larger disks (250mm diameter over last years 215mm) that allow for a more efficient transfer of energy. Also, the larger size of the two disks significantly reduces inertial stress over the previous design or a single disk system, meaning he clutch will last longer. As for launch control, the intermediate clutch disk is no longer floating and instead has six straps that control disk engagement. That means initial launching is much smoother, clutch effort is decreased, and the entire system places less stress on the disks, making them last longer.
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2010 Ford Shelby GT500 Mustang Convertible |
The highway fuel economy ratings are acheived through the gearing ratios in the transmission. The first four gears have been designed with performance in mind and are able to deliver ample amounts of acceleration. The ratios of the fifth and sixth gear have been decreased to allow more efficient transfer of power at higher speeds, making for better highway fuel economy.
The Shelby GT500 has always been known as a powerful and attractive pony car. Seeing how Ford has accomplished that power for the 2010 model year, along with the increases in efficiency, makes the car doubly impressive.
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