2012 Ford Mustang Shelby GTS

2012 Ford Mustang Shelby GTS

Shelby fans can look forward to a brand new special edition Mustang from the legendary Ford tuner following the unveiling this week at the 2011 New York Auto Show of the 2012 Shelby GTS based on the 2011 and 2012 model year Ford Mustang.

Unlike this 800 horsepower GT500 Super Snake supercar, the new Shelby GTS is aimed at younger fans and newcomers to the brand. As such, the package starts from as low as $9,995.00, not including the base car, and can be applied to even V-6 powered Mustangs. When equipped with a V-8 engine, the Shelby GTS also serves as the spiritual successor to the popular 2007 and 2008 Ford Shelby GT.

Ever since Ford introduced the 3.7-liter V-6 and 5.0-liter V-8 Mustang for the 2011 model year, the Shelby research and development team has been secretly developing the GTS package. Once the Shelby GT350 was finalized in both coupe and convertible versions, the skunkworks team accelerated the project. Working with partners at Ford Racing, Borla and Baer, Shelby American enhanced the car’s suspension, strengthened the braking and coaxed more power out of the engines.

Key features include a Ford Racing handling pack with new springs, tuned stabilizer bars and a front strut tower brace, new air intake systems, Shelby and Baer brakes, a redesigned hood and front bumper and special decals and badging.

More options include supercharger kits, six-piston brakes, adjustable control arms, 18- to 20-inch wheels and custom leather trim.

A limited number of the Shelby GTS models will be built with reservations starting April 21. Production is scheduled to begin in the fourth quarter of the year.

In the meantime, follow our full coverage of the 2011 New York Auto Show by clicking here.