King of the Road: 2008 Ford Shelby GT500KR
Wednesday May 14, 2008
The most powerful Mustang (to date), the 2008 Ford Shelby GT500KR, has been released. The "KR" in the model name is an abbreviation for "King of the Road", and has been used on Shelby Mustangs periodically since 1968. In the GT500KR, the supercharged V8 produces 540 bhp at 6250 rpm, and 510 ftlb of torque at 4500 rpm, up from 500 bhp and 480 ftlb respectively in the Shelby GT500. The supercharger remains a Roots type with an air-to-water intercooler. The engine is longitudinally-mounted and transmits the power to the rear wheels via a Tremec TR6060 six speed manual transmission.
Engine enhancements aside, the 2008 Ford Shelby GT500KR also features uprated suspension and brakes compared to the Ford Shelby GT500, as well as a shorter 3.73:1 final drive ratio (the GT500 runs a 3.31 rear axle). The ride height is also lower, both front and rear, and there have been numerous aerodynamic tweaks, as well as in the traction control system, which has been altered to suit the increased power. These modifications have resulted in a reported 1.0g lateral acceleration ability and sharper braking. Goodyear have developed tyres specifically for the GT500KR, and the compound they're made of is only available in North America. The tyres are 255/45 Z 18s in the front, and P285/40 ZR 18s in the rear.
Ford is limiting the run of 2008 GT500KRs to 1000 units, available from select dealers across the USA starting in May 2008. Each one will bear special numbered commemorative plaques and have Carroll Shelby's signature embroidered into the headrests, as well as other unique touches in line with the concept of a limited edition.
Engine enhancements aside, the 2008 Ford Shelby GT500KR also features uprated suspension and brakes compared to the Ford Shelby GT500, as well as a shorter 3.73:1 final drive ratio (the GT500 runs a 3.31 rear axle). The ride height is also lower, both front and rear, and there have been numerous aerodynamic tweaks, as well as in the traction control system, which has been altered to suit the increased power. These modifications have resulted in a reported 1.0g lateral acceleration ability and sharper braking. Goodyear have developed tyres specifically for the GT500KR, and the compound they're made of is only available in North America. The tyres are 255/45 Z 18s in the front, and P285/40 ZR 18s in the rear.
Ford is limiting the run of 2008 GT500KRs to 1000 units, available from select dealers across the USA starting in May 2008. Each one will bear special numbered commemorative plaques and have Carroll Shelby's signature embroidered into the headrests, as well as other unique touches in line with the concept of a limited edition.
