The pursuit of automotive perfection never truly ends, and for Shelby American, it constantly evolves. Inspired by a clandestine experiment in 2008 fueled by passionate customer demand for even more from the already formidable GT500, the New Gt500 Code Red emerges as the zenith of Shelby Mustang engineering. This isn’t just an upgrade; it’s a complete transformation. The heart of the Code Red is a hand-built, twin-turbocharged V8 engine, unleashing a staggering 1,300 horsepower and 1,000 lb-ft of torque. Beyond the revolutionary powertrain, each new GT500 Code Red benefits from comprehensive enhancements to its suspension, cooling systems, and aesthetics, creating a holistic performance machine. Exclusivity is paramount, with production strictly limited to just 10 GT500s from each of the 2020-2022 model years, culminating in a mere 30 units in total.
Shelby American has broken new ground by transitioning an experimental project into a coveted limited-edition production vehicle for the first time in its storied history. Shelby’s “EXP” designation has long been synonymous with groundbreaking innovation, exemplified by legendary experimental cars such as the Green Hornet, Little Red, and indeed, the original 2008 twin-turbo Code Red. The ’67 GT500 Super Snake, a marvel in its own right, boasted a 427 race engine, while the Green Hornet, a ’68 hardtop prototype, served as a testbed for fuel injection and independent rear suspension technologies. Adding to this legacy, the 1967 Little Red pushed boundaries further with twin superchargers and a suite of other pioneering features.
The genesis of the Code Red concept can be traced back to 2008, when Shelby American daringly replaced the supercharger of a GT500 with a pair of potent turbochargers on an experimental Shelby GT500 Code Red. This initial iteration featured a 5.4-liter V8, meticulously re-engineered by Nelson Racing Engines, incorporating a dual-feed fuel system capable of injecting high-octane racing fuel when the demand for power surged. To manage the immense heat generated, Shelby significantly enhanced the cooling system and collaborated with AMS to develop a speed-sensitive boost controller, optimizing performance across the speed range. The drivetrain underwent substantial modifications, incorporating numerous performance upgrades and advanced features. However, the original Code Red’s extreme nature and elevated cost ultimately deemed it unsuitable for series production – until now.
The new GT500 Code Red for the 2020-2022 generation represents a culmination of relentless development and strategic partnerships. Shelby collaborated closely with key suppliers to forge a robust, immensely powerful, and surprisingly reliable package. The foundation is the 5.2L engine, now fortified with all-new high-performance internal components and force-fed by a cutting-edge, intercooled premium twin-turbo system. A completely redesigned fuel system and advanced engine management system work in harmony to deliver breathtaking performance. On readily available 93 octane pump gas, the new GT500 Code Red confidently produces over 1,000 horsepower and 780 lb-ft of torque. For those seeking the ultimate adrenaline rush, fueling with E85 Ethanol unlocks the engine’s full potential, surging to an astonishing 1,300+ horsepower and 1,000 lb-ft of torque.
However, the new GT500 Code Red is far more comprehensive than simply a drivetrain overhaul. It’s a complete transformation encompassing a widebody package, aggressively styled new wheels, high-performance tires, upgraded axles, meticulously refined suspension tuning, bespoke interior appointments, unique badging, a lightweight carbon fiber hood, and a host of other enhancements. Each new GT500 Code Red owner receives exclusive membership to Team Shelby, the global club founded by Carroll Shelby in 2008, and each vehicle will be meticulously documented in the official Shelby Registry, ensuring its provenance and collectibility. The package MSRP starts at $224,995, and importantly, does not include the cost of the base car. Production is currently underway in Las Vegas, and existing owners of 2020-2022 model year Shelby GT500s are invited to contact Shelby American to explore transforming their prized machines into a new GT500 Code Red edition.
