I was looking forward to the live unveiling of the 2010
Shelby GT500 during Press Days at the Detroit Auto show, but lo and behold
those well known fiends “leaked” and “spy shot”
beat me to the punch.
I had the opportunity to see the debut of the 2010 Mustang
at a press gathering in Santa Monica prior to the LA Auto Show. During the
event Ford’s Mark Fields talked about the next chapter in Mustang history, the
reveal of the Shelby GT 500 in Detroit. But as so often happens a web “leak”
spilled info about the new GT500 before Detroit. Sometimes I wonder if these “leaks”
are actually spilled by automotive marketing departments to stir early hype.
Also the ever elusive “spy shot” of the Shelby was taken in Detroit covered in
Camo. Strange how cars under the wraps always seem to make their way into
mainstream areas.
Enough of the sour grapes and more about what’s going to
take place at Shelby’s Las Vegas headquarters.
In addition to the new 2010 sheet metal, the Ford Mustang
Shelby GT500 will sport
a set of 19-inch
wheels, the convertible gets new 18-inchers),and comes equipped with a new
aluminum hood with a power dome and a single functional heat extractor.
The supercharged 5.4L V8 remains, and although specific
power output has not been revealed, the new model will offer "increased
performance." A 3.55 axle ratio is now standard, and the suspension has
been tuned by SVT. Inside, an optional Electronics package provides a
voice-activated navigation system and dual climate control. The leather seats
will feature a stripe that color coordinates with the exterior stripes as well
as Alcantera accents.
New exterior colors
will correspond with the standard 2010 Mustang and include Grabber Blue, Kona
Blue, Sterling Grey, and more.
