The 2014 Ford Shelby GT500 is powered by the 5.8-liter aluminum-block V8 engine that produces 662 horsepower and 631 lb.-ft. of torque. Nearly every part of the powertrain has been optimized for producing the massive horsepower, including the supercharger, cross-drilled block and heads, camshaft profiles, carbon fiber driveshaft and upgraded clutch, transmission and axle.
A TVS series 2300 supercharger flowing air through the engine is key to helping produce the GT500’s 662 horsepower. The 2.3-liter supercharger is a unique design to the 5.8-liter engine. The entire cooling system is up to the task of dissipating the heat produced by the 5.8-liter engine. It now includes a larger cooling fan, fan shroud with high-speed pressure-relief doors, a more efficient charge air cooler, a higher-flow intercooler pump, and an intercooler heat exchanger with volume increased 36 percent compared to earlier GT500 engines.
The gearing on the 2014 Shelby GT500 has been optimized to manage the torque and use more of the power in a way that makes it more driver-friendly. Engineers considered more than 35 gearing combinations, finally deciding on one that balances torque being transmitted all the way through the wheels and grip to the ground. A key piece of the driveline, the six-speed manual transmission, offers upgraded gears, bearings and housing so it can properly manage the torque. The final drive ratio is now 3.31:1 for optimized overall vehicle gearing to complement the massive torque. The clutch has the torque and rpm capacity to match the massive output of the engine, and uses a dual-disc design.
Significant aerodynamic work was done on the Shelby GT500 to ensure the car has proper downforce for optimum performance at all speeds. The front fascia and splitters were modified to handle the extreme loads at 200 mph, resulting in a car that tracks more securely and feels more planted to the road at higher speeds. It offers 33 percent more effective aero loading at 160 mph compared to the 2011 model. The 2014 Shelby GT500 offers two sets of forged-aluminum wheels including a unique wheel for cars with the optional packages. The 19-inch front and 20-inch rear wheels are coupled with Goodyear Eagle F1 SuperCar G: 2 tires on all vehicle configurations.
Available as part of the Performance Package, SVT-designed Bilstein electronic adjustable dampers are accessed on the dash with a simple push of a button. Normal mode gives customers a more comfortable ride over road irregularities. Sport mode is all about performance, delivering improved response time on the track, and less body roll while cornering and pitch under braking. Enthusiasts can upgrade their Performance Package with an additional Track Package for all-out performance. The option comes with an external engine oil cooler, rear differential cooler and transmission cooler for further durability. The coolers play an essential role in preventing crucial components from overheating under high-speed conditions.
