2008 Mustang Shelby GT500 specs include a supercharged 5.4L V8 engine with 500 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed manual transmission. It accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds.
The 2008 Shelby GT500 was introduced as part of Ford’s ongoing partnership with the legendary automotive icon Carroll Shelby. This model showcased a blend of the old-school muscle car charm with modern engineering improvements, making it a true standout in the world of performance vehicles. With its 5.4L supercharged V8 engine producing a jaw-dropping 500 horsepower, this Mustang variant brought thrilling acceleration, refined handling, and impressive braking performance to the table.
The Shelby GT500 isn’t just a performance powerhouse; it’s also a symbol of Ford’s commitment to excellence in design and engineering. Whether you’re a car enthusiast, a collector, or someone interested in learning more about the specs, this post will provide an exhaustive look at the 2008 Shelby GT500, including its performance metrics, engine specifications, handling capabilities, and much more.
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2008 Mustang Shelby GT500 Specs
The 2008 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 is a true symbol of American performance engineering, offering a potent combination of power, precision, and aggressive styling. This muscle car represents a unique blend of classic American design and modern engineering, making it a beloved collector’s item and a high-performance vehicle for enthusiasts worldwide.
Engine and Performance Specifications
The engine and performance of the 2008 Mustang Shelby GT500 are the heart of what makes this muscle car a powerhouse. With a supercharged 5.4L V8 engine, this car is engineered to deliver an exhilarating performance on the road. Let’s explore the specifics of its engine and performance metrics that make the GT500 a true American icon.
Supercharged 5.4L V8 Engine
At the heart of the 2008 Shelby GT500 is a 5.4-liter supercharged V8 engine, a powerhouse capable of delivering 500 horsepower at 6,000 RPM and 480 lb-ft of torque at 4,500 RPM. This engine is mated with a 6-speed manual Tremec TR-6060 transmission, ensuring that the car’s immense power is effectively put to use. The supercharger enhances the engine’s output, pushing the Mustang into an entirely different league when it comes to acceleration and top speed.
The Shelby GT500’s 5.4L V8 is a meticulously crafted, hand-built engine designed for maximum durability and performance. With a forged steel crankshaft and connecting rods, the engine can withstand high amounts of stress and strain, providing years of reliable, high-performance use. This engine is a significant factor in the car’s success on both the street and the track.
Performance Metrics:
- Horsepower: 500 hp @ 6,000 RPM
- Torque: 480 lb-ft @ 4,500 RPM
- 0-60 mph Time: Approximately 4.5 seconds
- Top Speed: Estimated at 155 mph
- Quarter-Mile Time: Around 12.8 seconds
- Fuel Economy: 14 mpg city / 20 mpg highway
Transmission and Drivetrain
The transmission and drivetrain of the 2008 Shelby GT500 are key to harnessing the car’s incredible power and delivering a thrilling driving experience. Let’s dive into the specifics of the 6-speed manual transmission and drivetrain system that ensure the GT500 performs at its best.
Tremec TR-6060 6-Speed Manual Transmission
The 2008 Shelby GT500 features a Tremec TR-6060 6-speed manual transmission, a system designed to handle the high output of the supercharged 5.4L engine. The transmission is smooth, responsive, and known for its durability under high-performance conditions. Each shift in this gearbox is met with precision, making the driving experience incredibly engaging.
This manual transmission setup also ensures that the driver has full control over gear selection, which is critical for achieving the best performance in terms of acceleration, cornering, and top speed. A six-speed manual transmission also ensures better fuel economy compared to automatic systems, although the Shelby GT500’s power needs mean fuel economy is secondary to its outright performance.
Suspension and Handling
The suspension and handling of the 2008 Shelby GT500 play a critical role in providing a balanced driving experience, combining both comfort and performance. Let’s take a closer look at how the car’s suspension system and braking capabilities ensure stability and precision on the road.
Suspension System
The 2008 Shelby GT500 is equipped with a sophisticated suspension system, which includes an independent front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension. This setup provides excellent stability at high speeds and superior handling around corners. The front suspension, which uses struts, offers a precise steering response, while the multi-link rear suspension enhances rear stability, preventing unwanted body roll during sharp turns.
The car’s suspension has been tuned to complement its high horsepower output, ensuring that the GT500 can be driven aggressively without sacrificing comfort. This gives the car its true “muscle car” feel — an exciting and somewhat raw driving experience that’s still comfortable enough for everyday use.
Braking System
Safety and control at high speeds are critical in a performance car like the Shelby GT500, which is why the braking system plays an important role. The car is equipped with Brembo 14-inch front rotors paired with four-piston calipers, providing immense stopping power. The rear brakes are 11.8 inches with single-piston calipers. Together, these provide excellent stopping distances, even when the car is pushed to its limits on the road or the track.
Exterior and Design Dimensions
The 2008 Shelby GT500 boasts a muscular, aggressive exterior design that is unmistakably Shelby. It carries bold lines, a wide stance, and a signature front grille, all of which add to its road presence.
- Length: 187.6 inches
- Width: 73.9 inches
- Height: 54.5 inches
- Wheelbase: 107.1 inches
- Curb Weight: Approximately 3,920 lbs
These dimensions are a significant part of what gives the Shelby GT500 its powerful appearance and stability at high speeds. Its sleek but robust structure makes it a standout vehicle on the road.
Interior Features and Comfort
The interior of the 2008 Shelby GT500 combines luxury and performance, offering a cabin designed for both driving excitement and comfort. Let’s take a look at the features that make the interior of this muscle car stand out, from its seating arrangement to the tech available for entertainment and convenience.
Seating and Cabin Layout
The 2008 Shelby GT500 features a two-plus-two seating arrangement, meaning it can comfortably seat up to four passengers. The front seats are bucket-style, equipped with power adjustments to provide optimal support during spirited driving. The rear seats, while suitable for passengers, are not the most spacious and are best suited for occasional use or additional luggage space.
The cabin of the GT500 is outfitted with high-quality materials, including leather upholstery, providing a blend of luxury and sportiness. Ambient lighting accents the interior, further elevating the driving experience.
Infotainment and Technology
In terms of technology, the 2008 Shelby GT500 comes with the Shaker 500 audio system, which includes a 6-disc CD changer, MP3 compatibility, and an auxiliary input jack. While the infotainment system might not be as advanced as today’s standards, it was one of the better systems available in muscle cars at the time, delivering powerful sound to match the car’s aggressive nature.
Safety Features
While the 2008 Shelby GT500 was focused on performance, Ford didn’t overlook safety. The vehicle is equipped with a range of safety features, including:
- Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
- Traction Control
- Front Seat Side Airbags
- Four-Wheel Disc Brakes
- Active Anti-theft System
Despite the lack of modern safety technologies like lane-keeping assist and stability control, the GT500’s safety features ensure a solid level of protection during driving.
Price and Market Availability
The 2008 Shelby GT500 had a starting price of around $42,330 for the coupe variant, with the convertible version priced slightly higher due to the added structural changes and open-air driving capabilities. Because the 2008 Shelby GT500 was produced in limited numbers, it has since become a highly sought-after collector’s item.
While availability today is restricted, it’s possible to find pre-owned GT500 models on the market, though prices may vary depending on the car’s condition and mileage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some FAQs about the 2008 Mustang Shelby GT500 –
1. What engine is in the 2008 Shelby GT500?
The 2008 Shelby GT500 is equipped with a 5.4L supercharged V8 engine that produces 500 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque.
2. Does the 2008 Shelby GT500 come with an automatic transmission?
No, the 2008 GT500 is exclusively available with a 6-speed manual transmission.
3. What is the 0-60 mph time for the 2008 Shelby GT500?
The 2008 Shelby GT500 can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 4.5 seconds.
4. How much horsepower does the 2008 Shelby GT500 have?
The 2008 Shelby GT500 has a total of 500 horsepower at 6,000 RPM.
5. What is the top speed of the 2008 Shelby GT500?
The top speed of the 2008 Shelby GT500 is estimated to be around 155 mph.
Conclusion
The 2008 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 is a fantastic blend of power, performance, and styling, capturing the essence of what makes muscle cars so appealing. From its supercharged V8 engine to its dynamic handling capabilities, the GT500 continues to be a favorite among collectors and driving enthusiasts. Whether you’re behind the wheel of this powerhouse or admiring it from afar, the 2008 Shelby GT500 will always hold a special place in the hearts of muscle car lovers.