Driven: 2020 Ford Mustang Shelby Mustang GT500, a Genuine Thrill Ride (ClassicCars.com Journal)
No stop signs or speed limits allows feeling 760 ponies push your body into the Recaros.
G-forces. Some of us like them. The acceleration and loops of a rollercoaster, the banking and turbulence of an airplane, or taking to the road course and dragstrip at Sonoma Raceway in the new Ford Shelby Mustang GT500. They will turn your stomach, pucker your backside — or tickle your fancy.
In my case, I was tickled to no end. The GT500, versatile enough to get groceries or tear up the track, was quite thrilling over two days in wine country. Ford invited several media and club members, as well as some dealers, to come experience the car over a three-day period. What an experience it was! Happiness is a warm V8 …
Needless to say, I got to feel some genuine g-forces with my hands on the wheel. Specifically, in Track Pack trim … Lighter than the run-of-the-mill Mustang GTs, at 4,200 pounds, with 20-inch carbon-fiber wheels; gigantic six piston, vented Brembo brakes; sticky Michelin Pilot Cup Sport 2 tires; an intuitive and super-fast dual-clutch 7-speed Tremec transmission; and most of all, 760 ponies making insane power from a 5.2L Supercharged Cross Plane Crank V8.
Plus, it is simply such an attractive car, beautiful inside and out. The GT500 is muscular, flared and bulging in all the right places. The added trim, including rear damper and front splitter, highlight the look while adding genuine useful aero to the car. There was a variety of colors and stripes amongst the 20-plus cars at the demo. You know that feeling like being a kid in a candy store?
(photo credit: Tom Stahler - ClassicCars.com Journal)
