Anderson Ford of Clinton, Inc.

developed by Ford's Special Vehicle Team (SVT) in consultation with car legend Carroll Shelby. The GT500's influence starts with the cast aluminum 5.4L / 32-valve DOHC V-8 engine block which eliminates 102 lbs from the front end. By utilizing the Electric Power Assisted Steering (EPAS) & eliminating the power steering pump, lower restriction exhaust with 4 in outlets & open element cold-air intake ram air system, the GT500 is now rated at 550 hp and 510 lb-ft torque. A modified 8.8 in live axel & 3.55:1 gear ratio matched with a Tremec 6 speed manual transmission should aid in acceleration. It also has a Programmable Performance Shift Indicator and new Pedal Box which helps improve clutch pedal feel. An SVT Performance Package is available and includes: 3.73:1 limited slip axle, 19 in x 9.5 in front and 20 in x 9.5 in rear multi-spoke forged wheels, revised spring rates, revised rear shock absorber tuning, unique shifter ball, narrow LeMans racing stripes, solid GT500 side stripes and rear spoiler with "Gurney Flap" insert. Features on the 2012 Shelby GT500 models include: integrated spotter mirrors, MyKey owner control, fold down rear-seat head restraints, available glass roof on coupe, standard HID headlamps, larger upper/lower grille openings, HD radio and NVH enhancements. Carried over from 2010 & 2011 are the stabilizer bars and shock damping and the spring rates are 13 percent stiffer up front and 7 percent stiffer in the rear. Ford's Advance Trac electronic stability control is standard and comes with 3 settings: On, Sport and Off. Anti-lock brakes are standard as is front, side-impact and canopy air bags. Designers also worked to improve aero balance and therefore improve handling. New designs for the front splitter and rear spoiler increase front down force and decrease for the rear.
This moves the center of pressure forward and closer to the center of gravity, which aids in handling. Inside, the GT500 adds some neat touches and the higher quality interior includes a soft-skin dashboard with sound absorbing material.  Muscle car fans will appreciate the striped cue-ball style short throw shifter. The satin aluminum trim and suede-like Alcantara material used for the seat inserts, shift boot, parking brake boot and steering wheel add some nice touches. Ford's Sync system and ambient lighting is standard equipment with the Electronics Package that includes hands-free navigation as an option.