Shelby American has once again raised the bar for muscle car performance with the unveiling of the GT500 CODE RED. Inspired by a clandestine experimental project dating back to 2008, this limited-edition Mustang represents the zenith of Shelby’s high-performance engineering, transforming the already formidable GT500 into an absolute powerhouse. Prepare to experience a symphony of raw power as the GT500 CODE RED unleashes a staggering 1,300 horsepower and 1,000 pound-feet of torque from its handcrafted twin-turbocharged V8 engine. This isn’t just an upgrade; it’s a complete metamorphosis, encompassing powertrain, suspension, cooling, and aesthetics, making the GT500 CODE RED a true collector’s dream. Production is strictly limited to just 30 units, with only ten cars taken from each of the 2020, 2021, and 2022 GT500 model years, ensuring exclusivity and legendary status.
For Shelby American, the GT500 CODE RED marks a significant milestone: the transformation of an experimental concept into a production reality. Shelby’s history is rich with groundbreaking “EXP” experimental vehicles, each pushing the boundaries of automotive innovation. Think of iconic creations like the “Green Hornet,” the “Little Red,” and indeed, the original twin-turbo 2008 CODE RED. These experimental cars served as testbeds for cutting-edge technologies and performance enhancements. The ’67 GT500 Super Snake, for instance, boasted a 427 race engine, while the Green Hornet explored fuel injection and independent rear suspension in a ’68 hardtop. “Little Red” from 1967 showcased twin superchargers among a suite of innovations. These cars were not just about speed; they were about pioneering new frontiers in automotive engineering.
The lineage of the GT500 CODE RED can be directly traced back to the 2008 experimental model. Back then, Shelby American dared to replace the GT500’s supercharger with a pair of turbochargers, creating the first CODE RED Shelby GT500. Nelson Racing Engines meticulously re-engineered the 5.4-liter V8, incorporating a dual-feed fuel system capable of injecting high-octane racing fuel when needed. To manage the immense heat generated, Shelby significantly enhanced the cooling system and collaborated with AMS to develop a sophisticated speed-sensitive boost controller. The drivetrain underwent substantial revisions, and numerous performance upgrades were integrated. However, the original 2008 CODE RED remained an experiment due to its extreme nature and prohibitive cost for series production.
Fast forward to the present, and Shelby American, leveraging advancements in technology and engineering, has successfully transformed the CODE RED concept into a production-ready marvel. The new 2020-2022 GT500 CODE RED benefits from close partnerships with key suppliers to ensure a robust, potent, and dependable package. The heart of this beast is the upgraded 5.2-liter engine, now featuring entirely new high-performance internal components and force-fed by a premium, intercooled twin-turbo system. A completely redesigned fuel system and engine management system work in concert to optimize performance and reliability. On readily available 93 octane pump gas, the CODE RED delivers in excess of 1,000 horsepower and 780 pound-feet of torque. When fueled with E85 Ethanol, this figure escalates to a mind-blowing 1,300 horsepower and 1,000 pound-feet of torque, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in a street-legal Mustang.
The current generation GT500 CODE RED is not merely a powertrain modification; it’s a holistic performance transformation. The car features a widebody package that not only enhances its aggressive stance but also accommodates wider wheels and tires for improved traction and handling. Upgraded axles, meticulously tuned suspension, a bespoke interior, unique badging, and a lightweight carbon fiber hood further distinguish the CODE RED. Each purchase includes membership in Team Shelby, the official worldwide club founded by Carroll Shelby in 2008, and each car will be meticulously documented in the official Shelby Registry, preserving its provenance and collectibility. The transformation package starts at an MSRP of $224,995, which is exclusive of the base car. Production is currently underway in Las Vegas, and owners of 2020-2022 Shelby GT500s are invited to contact Shelby American to explore converting their existing machines into the ultimate CODE RED edition.
