2011 Ford Shelby GT500 Details – Optional SVT Performance Package [Video]

Ford has revealed the 2011 Shelby GT500 ahead of its official debut at Chicago Auto Show. Inside: Full coverage

Ford has revealed the 2011 Shelby GT500 ahead of its official debut at Chicago Auto Show.

The 2011 GT500 is virtually identical to the 2010 model and features an aluminum 5.4-liter V8 motor. The new engine is based on the 2011 Mustang GT 5.0-liter V8. It has an additional 0.4% of displacement, an improved block, six-bolt billet main bearing cap and a supercharger.

The aluminum engine weighs 102 pounds less than the cast-iron counterpart. It has a “state of the art Plasma Transferred Wire Arc liner coating.” This coating is 150 microns thick and contains nanoparticles. These coatings replace cast-iron liners that are commonly used in aluminum engine blocks. Ford claims that the process offers improved performance and durability, as well as functional benefits such reduced friction between piston rings, cylinder bores, and heat transfer due to an increased surface area. This is in addition to a weight saving of 8.5 pounds over a standard steel-sleeved aluminum blocks.

The engine’s advanced engineering allows it to produce 550 horsepower (410kW/ 558 PS) as well as 510 ft.lb (691 Nm), an increase of 10 HP over the 2010 model. Ford did not release performance specs, but stated that the 2011 Shelby GT500 would be the first modern Shelby to be exempted from the U.S. gasoline guzzler taxes. It is expected to achieve 15 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway.

Ford also updated the electric power steering system and added slotted brake dust shields. They also installed a new pedalbox (for better clutch and pedal feel), lowered the ride height (11 m in front, 8 m at the back), and created an exhaust system.

The optional SVT Performance package may be a better choice if you’re not impressed with all the changes. This package features unique styling accents and a higher rear axle ratio. It also has lightweight wheels wrapped with specially-designed Goodyear Eagle F1 SuperCarG: 2 tires.

Jost Capito is the director of global performance cars and motorsports business developments. He stated that the SVT team “continues to push the Shelby’s performance standards to higher levels and refinement.” We made all the changes to improve handling and driving dynamics, from weight savings to better balance.