What's New About the 2020 Shelby GT500 - A Detailed Analysis
Introduction
The 2020 Shelby GT500 is a beast among muscle cars, offering a unique blend of power, performance, and impressive engineering. Whether you're a hardcore enthusiast or simply curious about the latest models in the market, this article will provide a comprehensive review to help you understand the latest features and technological advancements.
Comparison to Previous Models
2020 GT500 vs. Last GT500
The 2020 Shelby GT500:
Engine: Produces 760 horsepower, a significant 100 horsepower increase compared to the previous model. Transmission: Equipped with a dual-clutch automatic transmission, providing smoother and quicker shifts. Suspension: Offers an independent rear suspension for enhanced handling and reduced noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH).Last GT500 (2015-2019):
Engine: 662 horsepower, manual transmission only. Body: The last-generation body, which was the iconic Shelby chasis from 2011 to 2019. Transmission: Manual transmission only.2020 GT500 vs. GT350R
The Shelby Mustang GT350R is another formidable competitor, particularly when it comes to track performances. At Willows Raceway, a high-performance track, the Ferrari 458 Italia takes the pole position with a lap time of 1:28.00, but the Shelby is close behind with a time of 1:28.29. This is impressive for a car rooted in American muscle history.
Engine and Performance Features
The heart of the 2020 Shelby GT500 is its supercharged 5.2-liter V8 engine. Some enthusiasts rightfully pointed out unique engineering solutions Ford employed to fit this powerhouse in a competition-oriented chassis. To lower the center of gravity, Ford engineers ingeniously flipped the supercharger. The twin-scroll design is now on the bottom, while the air-to-water intercooler is mounted at the top, ensuring maximum efficiency.
Supply Chain and Design Collaboration
Another aspect that some enthusiasts may have highlighted is the use of supplier components. It's important to note that all car manufacturers work with suppliers to ensure the integration of components like superchargers, turbos, tires, and transmissions. Ford's choice of Paxton superchargers, for instance, is not unusual considering their extensive history with such technology. The partnership with suppliers is a key factor in optimizing performance and ensuring reliability.
Conclusion
The 2020 Shelby GT500 is a marvel of modern engineering, combining powerful performance with advanced technology and design. Its evolution from the previous GT500 and its ability to challenge more exotic models like the Ferrari 458 Italia on the racetrack is truly inspiring. For anyone interested in high-performance muscle cars, the 2020 Shelby GT500 is a must-see and a must-drive.
Key Takeaways