2010 Ford Shelby GT500

Building on standing but unspoken tradition, Ford is to unveil the most powerful Ford SVT-tuned performance Mustang ever in Detroit. The 2010 Shelby GT500 has had its power hiked to 540hp / 402kW and some 510 foot-pounds of torque.

"We're proud of the many enhancements that were developed jointly by the Ford and Shelby Automobiles team last year that we've now incorporated into the new 2010 Shelby GT500," said Carroll Shelby, founder of Shelby Automobiles. "Building on what we learned to create the Shelby GT500KR, this new car offers a great combination of power, handling and braking. It is truly a special car that is a great deal of fun to drive."

The GT500 uses a 5.4-litre V8 engine with a supercharger to make its 540hp while redline is pegged at 6,250 rpm. That power dome on the hood is not only for bragging rights but serves to scoop up cool air to keep the engine at its best peak performance level. A manual transmission was upgraded and fitted, and it makes use of a twin-disc clutch. Engineers spend a lot of time making sure the car's exhaust note was audible, yet not overpowering, so you still know you are driving something special but without excessive interior intrusion.

Inside it features lots of "GT500" and "SHELBY" logos, leather fittings, voice-activated satellite navigation and custom interior lighting fitments.