Since its debut in 1968, the Shelby Mustang GT500 “King of the Road” has commanded respect and won the hearts of gearheads throughout the automotive space. Its rugged build, heightened performance, and aggressive-sounding engine made it an instant classic worthy of its lofty name. Now, more than half a century later, Shelby American has just announced the newest iteration of the GT500 King of the Road in celebration of Shelby’s 60th anniversary, and it’s a sight to see.
Given its royal name, it only makes sense for the newest generation of the Shelby GT500 KR to boast incredible specs and fantastic aesthetic features, and boy does it. Boasting a massive 5.2L V8, the Shelby GT500 KR benefits from the addition of a behemoth 3.8L Whipple supercharger, which boosts its power to an eye-popping 900+ HP. Shelby accomplished this feat by equipping the GT500 KR’s twin-screw supercharger system with a larger throttle body, cold air intake, updated pulley system, and innovated dual-core dual pass intercooler. The new Shelby GT500 KR also features a Borla cat-back exhaust system, MagneRide suspension recalibration, and a set of gorgeous 6061-T6 forged aluminum wheels. Aesthetically speaking, the GT500 KR features a dry carbon fiber hood with evacuation air vents, a carbon fiber front splitter and rear diffuser, and the iconic Shelby rocker stripes. Optional features for the GT500 KR include Le Mans style over-the-top stripes, a polished supercharger, and a Shelby wide body kit.
For those lucky enough to already have their own 2020 or 2021 Shelby GT500, Shelby will transform your car into its third generation of the King of the Road, with packages starting at $54,995. If you’re lacking a donor and are looking for a fully built-out model, then expect to shell out at least $127,895. Shelby will begin taking orders for the new King of the Road in February 2022.
