Ford tuning specialist Shelby will unveil the new 2012 model year Shelby GT500 Super Snake at the upcoming 2011 New York International Auto Show later this month. When first introduced in 2008, the base Super Snake had a mere 605 hp under the hood with an option for up to 725. That number increased to 750 for 2010, and now for the 2012 model year, Shelby is set to unveil the latest Super Snake with up to 800 hp on tap from its 5.4-liter supercharged V8.
Standard performance upgrades include a Ford Racing handling pack (dynamic adjustable dampers, lowering springs, tuned stabilizer bars and front strut tower brace), a 6-speed manual transmission with 3.73:1 rear axle ratio, a Borla exhaust system, 20-inch Alcoa wheels, Shelby/Baer brakes with 6-piston callipers and cross-drilled/vented rotors, a unique fibreglass hood and signature Super Snake stripes in either matte black or matte white.
Unfortunately, customers will have to spend extra bucks to benefit from all 800 horsepower since the standard tune is rated at 750 (along with 590 lb-ft of torque). An optional Shelby/Eibach handling pack and a two-tone leather interior are also available.
Prices for the Super Snake start about $80,000 in total, including the separate purchase of a car from Ford, a factory-produced Shelby GT500, and the necessary modifications. The Shelby GT500 Super Snake will be legal to drive on public roads on all 50 states, the carmaker promised, and it will cost less than $100,000. Customers (and dreamers) can build their own Super Snake at http://shelbyamerican.com/buildhome.asp.
At the 2011 New York Auto Show, Shelby will also display the limited edition Shelby GT350 coupe and convertible, which were revealed at the 2011 Chicago Auto Show early this year.
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