Ford unveils 2010 Shelby GT500 Coupe and Convertible at 2009 Detroit Auto Show Preview

They said it was legendary.Carroll Shelby's name is legendary among Ford fans, and for good reason. Since the 1960s, cars bearing the Shelby logo have been feared by foes and cherished by owners. The latest in the Shelby line, the 2010 Ford GT500, is primed to carry on the tradition, taking the title of Ford's most powerful SVT-tuned Mustang ever. "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 Ford 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." With that kind of endorsement, it's already a sure thing in many fans eyes. The more skeptical will wait to see how it feels in a seat-of-the-pants sense, but with 540hp and 510lb-ft of torque on tap, it's unlikely to feel like it's lacking power. The 2010 GT500 gets its power from a supercharged and intercooled 5.4L DOHC V8 that redlines at 6,250 rpm. Some of the advances made to allow the new Shelby to generate all that power include an open-element intake and conical air filter instead of the more typical factory enclosed flat-panel system. Snaked to a cold-air location, the intake also helps get the coolest air possible into the system, reducing charge temps and increasing horsepower. Routing all that power and torque to the rear wheels is a six-speed manual transmission mated to a twin-disc clutch. The clutch itself has been upgraded to a copper/fiberglass blend and enlarged to 250mm discs, 35mm larger than the previous GT500's. To keep the clutch from being undriveable on the street, a unique mechanism controls the intermediate disc, making for smoother launches and shifts. The transmission also gets some improvements to reduce noise and vibration. Fifth and sixth gears are also made slightly taller, accounting for the 2mpg highway fuel efficiency improvements, though a shorter 3.55 ratio in the rear diff boosts acceleration in the lower gears. All of this driveline work means that the car will accelerate faster than last year's car, but Ford isn't saying how much faster just yet. With the similarly-outfitted (but even shorter-geared at a 3.73 rear diff ratio) 540hp GT500KR making the 0-60mph (96km/h) dash in 4.1 seconds, expect similar figures from the 2010 model. Exterior appearance changes for 2010 are similar to those found on the standard 2010 Mustang. The redesigned slimmer look, improved interior and modernized trim all carry over where they are not replaced by unique elements. Special attention was paid to the front end of the car, which gets a redesigned splitter among other upgrades. "We worked hard to get as much downforce with as little drag as possible," said Kerry Baldori, chief functional engineer for SVT. "We worked to seal off the air that comes in the front so it can't go underneath the car. We spent a lot time sealing components such as the radiator and intercoolor to get rid of all the leak paths. The result of this evolution of aerodynamics is we've increased downforce, reduced drag and improved the overall efficiency of the 2010 Shelby GT500." The suspension also gets new SVT tuning, with revised spring and damper rates for better roll control, thanks in part to work done in the GT500KR program. Handling is further improved with new 19in Goodyear F1 Supercar tires on forged aluminum wheels. "All our changes were about making the car to respond as fast and as predictable as possible," said Jamal Hameedi, chief nameplate engineer for SVT. "The 2010 Shelby GT500 conveys an athletic, confident feel. The shifter, clutch pedal, brake-pedal efforts and overall steering efforts are easier now. We wanted to make sure we had a nice, crisp short-throw shifter that was easy to go from gear to gear." The 2010 Shelby GT500 goes on sale in the early part of 2009, though the very first car will be auctioned along side the first 2010 Mustang and the first 2010 Chevrolet Camaro at the Barrett-Jackson auction, January 13-18 in Scottsdale, Arizona. [source:MotorAuthority] It was a legendary car of course..love it!

 

Ford GT tuning by GeigerCars.de

 

The Ford GT is a living legend. For those who have driven this car before it is hard to imagine what it means to gain 29 % more performance power. Its supercharged engine with an impressive 701 bhp/ 523kW producing a peak torque of 7407 in-lbs reaches a top speed of 211 mph. The engine's shear force gives you goose bumps and its deep base just about takes your breath away. With the tuning modifications carried out by GeigerCars.de the Ford GT really outdoes itself.   Munich's tuning specialists at GeigerCars.de converted the Ford GT 5.4 liter V8 engine entirely. A 3.3 liter serial compressor replaces the 2.3 liter compressor and the boost pressure was raised from 0.8 to 1.25 bar. The engine electronics were reprogrammed to calibrate the GeigerCars.de power components. Enlarged throttle valves and a sport air filter provide its eight cylinders with more circulation. The engine and transmission's cooling system are optimized to meet the needs of the Ford GT's expanded performance. With the first step on the gas this sports car instantly demonstrates what it is capable of: a true race car. From 0 to 62mph in 3.5 seconds With the tuning kit from GeigerCars.de the sprint from 0 to 62 mph takes just 3.5 seconds. The Ford GT can cover a quarter mile in 10.9 seconds. Its driving force is noticeable in first gear and does not let up - this car does not stop giving until reaching maximum speed at 211mph. Only the tire's loading limit bridle the engine's overwhelming power. Its top speed is limited electronically. The driving experience is acoustically enhanced with the installation of a high performance exhaust system from GeigerCars.de which accentuates the engine's solid sound. The Ford GT's powerful tailpipes have a diameter of 110 millimeters. Having removed the rear bumper the tailpipes impress in full view. Engine andsu spension design: a perfect complement Such immense force of acceleration is to be controlled with confidence. Optimum control in all situations is guaranteed by a GeigerCars.de specially designed adjustable suspension system. For optimal weight distribution of axle load between front and rear axles, the hydraulic shock absorbers can either be set in the impact or tow mode. Its suspension package lowers the Ford GT by up to 60 millimeters and brings its power onto the road. In turn, its unique thin silhouette and sporty proportions are brought out by the low rider. Controlling shear force with confidence Its high performance break system with monoblock brake calipers produced by GeigerCars.de is made for deceleration performance. Even at over 186mph the Ford GT breaks quickly and confidently. For quick acceleration and optimum control when taking curves GeigerCars.de combines impressive 245/35R 20 size tires and 9Jx20 light alloy wheels on the front axle and 325/30R 21 size tires and 11x21 wheels on the rear axle. Such distribution gives the car a safe grip even at fast cornering. The Ford GT's impressive outer appearance is completed with the addition of a Geigercars.de wheel set in black with stainless steel inlays. via[tuningnews]

 

Heffner Camilo Pardo Ford GT

Heffner Performance has teamed up with artist and Ford GT chief designer Camilo Pardo to develop the custom built Heffner Camilo Pardo Ford GT. Heffner Performance's collaboration work with Ford GT chief designer Camilo Pardo was always going to bear something special. Heffner

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Hot Wheels 2010 Mustang GT hits eBay

So, this would appear to be a big weekend for die-cast reveals of cars that are debuting at the LA Auto Show later this month. Yesterday, it was Tomica's 2010 Nissan Cube on eBay. Today we get the new 2010 Ford Mustang GT in the form of a Hot Wheels prototype, again on eBay. There in all its 1:64 scale glory is Ford's pony car with its new fascias and substantial power dome hood, but without mirrors. Hey, shipping's only $8.50 from Kuala Lumpur. If you're a hardcore collector, bid away. Us? We'll keep an eye on the store shelves at Target and pick up the final product for a buck. Thanks once again to Galvin for the tip! Gallery: 2010 Ford Mustang GT Hot Wheels die-cast [Source: eBay]

 

2010 Ford Mustang kicks off 2008 LA Auto Show with a bang

We arrived in LA late yesterday and checked into our hotel room next to the LA Staples Convention Center. We then quickly unpacked our gear, grabbed our digital cameras and headed to Santa Monica for the live reveal of the 2010 Ford Mustang. It was there we realized that while the depressing Big 3 bailout has ate up most of the headlines in the past couple of weeks, our true passion is bringing our visitors up-to-date info on the hottest vehicles produced by the world's greatest auto makers. And while the Big 3 may not be the best of the breed, we still owe it to them for creating some of the best American made automobiles that have not only captured the hearts of U.S. citizens, but people all over the world. Hosted by FoMoCo's marketing guru Jim Farley, the event was not a Ford event - but an event for all Mustang enthusiasts and for everyone that has that 'special bond' with their cars. The event brought together everyone from legend Carol Shelby to American soldier Kory Chesher, a member of the 1st Brigade of the 101st Airborne Division serving in Iraq, who received the keys to a 2010 Mustang GT for winning the "Mustang Stories" contest. So for the next couple of days, forget that the Big 3 is on the brink of bankruptcy if it doesn't receive aid and join us as we bring you live coverage of the 2008 LA Auto Show and show you some of the hottest new vehicles from automakers around the world. At the end of the day, it's not about Rick Wagoner, Alan Mulally, Bob Nardelli or Detroit producing the wrong mix of vehicles. It's about the feeling you get when you get in your car, hear that thump of the door closing, slide your key into the ignition and hear the engine roar after you turn it - or as many cars these days allow you to do - push the "Start" button. Follow the 2008 LA Auto Show tag for instant updates of the show. Click through for 79 high-res images from the 2010 Ford Mustang Event. 2010 Ford Mustang Live Reveal:

 

Ferrari, Rolls-Royce, Land Rover and Suzuki pull out of 2009 Detroit Auto Show

As you've read numerous times before, GM has shelved plans to unveil the 2010 Buick LaCrosse and the production 2010 Cadillac CTS next week at the 2008 LA Auto Show. In fact, GM has cancelled its press conference altogether saying that any product launches may be overlooked due to the current headlines about the company's financial troubles. Volkswagen also cancelled plans to unveil its new roadster concept, rescheduling the world debut for the 2009 Detroit Auto Show in January. Facing one of the toughest times in the industry in decades, other automakers have also announced that they are cutting spending on auto shows. Ferrari, Rolls-Royce, Land Rover and Suzuki Motor Corp., all said that they are withdrawing their presence at one of the nation's largest auto shows - the Detroit Auto Show. All four automakers will not be present at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show in January. "Clearly, we're affected," Andy Fuzesi, general manager and co-owner of the L.A. Auto Show told LA Times. He said that this year, the show has nearly 20% fewer exhibitors. "Everybody is clearly reassessing where they spend their money." That leaves FoMoCo with quite a bit of 'shine time' in LA where it plans to introduce six vehicles including the 2010 Ford Fusion, 2010 Mercury Milan and the 2010 Ford Mustang. Source: LA Times

 

Ford Cobra Jet Mustang

Ford unveiled the Cobra Jet Mustang today at the SEMA Show. It will join the racing line-up next to the Mustang FR500S, the Mustang FR500C and the Mustang FR500GT. The 2008 Ford Racing Cobra Jet (FR500CJ) is a factory-built race car (serialized but no VIN), ready for the drag strip with only minor additional prep required. It is available for order from any Ford dealer as a Ford Racing part. It is powered by a 5.4 Cobra Jet engine and features Cobra Jet cold air kit, 6-speed manual or (...)

 

Ford Mustang: The American Vintage Pride

Ford, a big name in the car market is synonymous with the American pride and quality. Even after a century of production, the Ford cars are wide in demand. Thanks to the durability and quality. It was in 1905, Ford made its debut into car making. Slowly but steadily, Ford crossed the boundaries of the American continent to expand its empire. Ford cars became a symbol of prestige and luxury in the Europe and Asian countries including Singapore. Never had Ford tuned away from innovations. Always ready for experimentation, Ford brought out cars as per the demand of the car lovers. Even after one century, most part of the American roads is filled with Ford cars. Seeing the roads of the New Lands filled with Ford cars is not a big thing. Ford brought out experimentation from time to time cutting down the cost of cars, making it easy for the users to own them. Ford has a big role in making cars popular among the American masses in the 40's. Ford is not only well known in quality but they have also contributed many new innovations in automotive industry. For example, Ford is the first manufacturer that uses the moving assembly line. This technology allows Ford to produce cars in a faster pace and also made the cars to be more affordable so that more people could own their own cars. It was after the Second World War, Ford brought out its vintage series. The high standard classic vintage cars invaded a big portion of roads not only in America, but also outside the Yankee land. Among them Fairlane, Thunderbird, Falcon, Galaxie, Torino, and the Mustang were the most popular. The Mustang from Ford soon found admirers even in distant lands like Singapore, and the Middle East. Even after four decades, the Mustang is admired among the car lovers. Mustang was very much American for its features and masculine finishing. They became popular through the Hollywood movies of that time. Most American films showed Ford Mustang in masculine lights giving it a new image of prowess among the teens and youth of the New English in the 1960's and 70's. The popularity of Ford Mustang induced the young car lovers to move for this enchanting model, taking its sales to new heights. Even now, the vintage car lovers are not ready to give up their fascination for Ford Mustang. By investing big money and time, they restore the Mustang cars as it brings a feel of pride and prestige to them. The real American pride; they mean it.

 

Popular Science names Best of What's New in Auto Tech for 2008

What are the best innovations that the global automotive industry debuted in 2008? Popular Science has just picked its favorites and revealed the Best of What's New awards for the year that just was; um, is. The grand prize goes to the Nissan GT-R for its technical brilliance, astonishing performance and relatively attractive pricing. No real complaints there, though we'd be remiss if we didn't at least mention that the new Corvette ZR1 in the same breathe, which PopSci fails to do. Green technology holds down three of the 11 positions, with two coming from Ford for its capless fuel fillers and EcoBoost engine tech, though the latter won't arrive until 2009 and Ford can't be credited with pioneering the combination of turbocharging and direct-injection on small displacement engines. Honda takes up a slot with its largely unobtainable hydrogen fuel cell-powered FCX Clarity. Also winning awards from the techy Mag are BMW's Google Maps-infused MyInfo service and the speed recognition system from the Euro-spec 7 Series, the DARPA-winning Tartan Racing Boss, Audi's Dynamic Steering, the Wide-View cameras from Lexus, Infiniti's self-healing clearcoat and the Speedshift transmission from Merdedes-Benz. Click the source link to read about each honoree, and let us know in the comments if you think PopSci missed an automotive tech marvel from 2008. [Source: Popular Science]

 

In what spec racing series would you want to race?

Click above for a high resolution gallery of the Ferrari F430 Challenge So you have a dilemma. You've got an itch for racing sports cars and cash to burn. Taking on Porsches and Ferraris in the GT2 category sounds fun, but the competition is pretty stiff and a spec series with a level playing field sounds more appealing. What are your options? If Porsches are your thing you might want to try the Porsche Supercup, featuring the 911 GT3 Cup, that runs in support of Formula 1. Rather go Italian? You can race an F430 in the Ferrari Challenge in North American, European, and Italian series, or try your hand in the brand new Lamborghini Super Trofeo series racing the Gallardo. American muscle more your style? You can race the FR500S Mustang in the Ford Racing Mustang Challenge at eight of America's best race tracks. We think each of them sounds like a ton of fun, but tell us which one you would pick in the poll below. Gallery: 2008 Porsche 911 GT3 Cup   Gallery: 2008 Ferrari F430 Challenge   Gallery: Lamborghini Super Trofeo   Gallery: Ford Racing Mustang FR500S