Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 (S197 II)

Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 (S197 II)

The 2013 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 (S197 II) represents the final evolution of one of the most powerful and significant chapters in Mustang history. As the last model year for the S197 platform's GT500, the 2013 model carried forward the extraordinary 662-horsepower supercharged 5.8-liter V8 while benefiting from the continuous refinement that SVT applied throughout the production run.

The powerplant remained the crown jewel -- the hand-built 5.8-liter Trinity V8 with its 2.3-liter Eaton TVS (Twin Vortices Series) Roots-type supercharger. The engine's 662 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 631 pound-feet of torque at 4,000 rpm were unchanged from 2012, as SVT engineers felt the output was already optimal for the chassis and drivetrain package. Each engine was assembled by a single technician who signed a plaque affixed to the supercharger housing.

The 2013 model year brought refinements to the GT500's chassis dynamics. SVT engineers continued to fine-tune the Bilstein shock absorber valving and spring rates, seeking to improve the balance between track performance and road comfort. The electronic power steering received recalibration for improved feedback and precision. Launch control was refined for more consistent standing-start acceleration.

The Tremec TR-6060 six-speed manual transmission, the only available gearbox, featured the same robust internals and precisely chosen ratios as the 2012 model. The shift linkage benefited from continued development, offering a slightly more refined feel. The carbon fiber driveshaft and 3.31:1 limited-slip differential remained unchanged.

Exterior styling for 2013 was virtually identical to 2012, maintaining the aggressive front fascia, functional hood scoop, available Le Mans stripes, and distinctive rear treatment. New color options provided fresh visual interest without altering the fundamental design. The 20-inch forged aluminum wheels continued to wear Goodyear Eagle F1 Supercar tires.

Brembo braking hardware carried over -- massive six-piston front calipers with 15.0-inch two-piece rotors and four-piston rear calipers with 11.8-inch rotors. The system's performance was well-proven, providing consistent, powerful stops even during aggressive track sessions.

The interior continued to offer leather-trimmed Recaro seats, SVT instrumentation, and a full complement of modern amenities. Material quality and assembly precision reflected the S197's maturity at this late stage of its production life.

The 2013 GT500 occupies a special place in Mustang history as the final example of a lineage that traced its roots through the supercharged modular V8 era. The subsequent S550-generation Mustang would shift to the naturally aspirated 5.2-liter Voodoo V8 for the GT350, taking the Shelby Mustang in a different direction.

For collectors and enthusiasts, the 2013 GT500 S197 II represents the ultimate expression of a particular performance philosophy -- big displacement, forced induction, manual transmission, and live rear axle -- that may not be repeated in the era of electrification and downsizing.