(continued from above)
The V-brace on the Convertible has been
stiffened by adding gussets. The secondary crossmember also has been stiffened,
while a front Z-brace has been added, connecting primary and secondary
crossmembers. A-pillar stiffening foam has been added to increase rigidity.
The structural improvements to the convertible gave SVT the opportunity to
be more sport-oriented in the chassis tuning, without trading comfort. Along
with the chassis and structural improvements, the 2011 model also will get
standard 19-inch aluminum wheels.
"The SVT team continues to push the performance standards of the Shelby
to even higher levels and better refinement," said Jost Capito, director of
global performance vehicles and motorsports business development. "All the
changes we made reflect a desire for even better handling and outstanding
driving dynamics - from weight savings to improved balance."
The 2011
Shelby GT500 is powered by an all-new aluminum-block 5.4-liter supercharged V-8
engine, which produces 550 horsepower and 510 ft-lb of torque, a 10 horsepower
increase versus the 2010 model. The engine also is 102 pounds lighter than its
predecessor, delivering a better power-to-weight ratio, improved fuel economy,
acceleration, handling and steering precision.
The 2011 Shelby GT500 combines power and fuel economy into one impressive
package. This 2011 Shelby GT500 will be the first modern Shelby without the gas
guzzler tax, thanks to the EPA-projected 23 mpg highway and 15 mpg city it will
deliver. This is up from 22 mpg highway and 14 mpg city for the 2010 model.
New for 2011 is an SVT Performance
Package for enthusiasts who want even more performance out of their Shelby GT500
for racetrack-ready driving dynamics. Complete with all-new Goodyear Eagle F1
SuperCar G: 2 tires that SVT engineers worked directly with Goodyear to develop,
the car is ready to race. The tires offer superb dry traction and precise
handling, complete with a race-inspired high-performance tread compound.
The optional package also offers unique styling, lighter wheels, a higher rear
axle ratio and stiffer springs, and it is available on both the convertible and
coupe. Data show the 2011 coupe with the SVT Performance Package is 3.0 seconds
faster per lap than the 2010 Shelby GT500 on a 2.3-mile test track.
GT500 gets a new exhaust for 2011,
roaring with an even more aggressive sound than the 2010 model. The 2.75-inch
exhaust with all-new tuning helped to deliver the additional 10 horsepower.
