For the 2010 model year, the Shelby Mustang GT500 was redesigned along with the base Ford Mustang. As with the 2007-09 GT500, the 2010 includes unique front and rear fascias, hood with functional vents and unique rear spoiler. The rear spoiler includes a functional Gurney flap. Along with new exterior colors, customers have the option of extending the exterior stripes onto the seats. Much like the 2011 V6 and GT Mustangs, the 2011 Shelby GT500 gets a rather large engine update with an all-new 5.4 L aluminum engine which is 102 pounds lighter than the previous cast-iron engine and uses Ford-patented plasma-coating technology. With the engine updates, not only has performance improved to 550 horsepower and 510 ft.lb. of torque, the GT500's gas milage improves enough to eliminate the U.S. Gas Guzzler Tax.2010-2011 Ford Shelby GT500
2010 Shelby GT500
The 5.4 L engines's power output was increased to 540 horsepower (403 kW) and 510 lb·ft (690 N·m) of torque with the addition of a cold air intake similar to the 08/09 GT500KR and includes a knock sensor to protect the engine if lower octane fuel is used. The 2010 GT500's fuel efficiency increased by 2 miles per gallon.
SVT re-tuned the coupe's suspension and worked with Goodyear on 19" tires with new construction, compound and tread pattern. The coupe's 19" wheels are forged for a reduction in unsprung weight. The convertible retained the 18" wheels offered on the 2007-09 GT500.2011 Shelby GT500
Ford also improved upon the handling characteristics of the GT500. The overall stance of the car has been lowered by 11 millimeters in front and 8 millimeters at the rear. The car also features Ford's new Electric Power Assist Steering (EPAS) that improves torque build-up and road feel that delivers quicker and more precise steering, increased effort on the racetrack or winding roads, and reduced effort in low-speed parking maneuvers. The car also once again features Ford’s AdvanceTrac stability control system.
External improvements include an optional SVT Performance Package, which includes Goodyear EagleF1 SuperCar G: 2 tires, all-new lightweight 19-inch forged-aluminum wheels in the front and new 20-inch forged-aluminum wheels in the rear, 3.73 rear axle ratio, performance tuned front and rear shocks, along with stiffer springs. The package also includes a unique rear spoiler Gurney Flap for improved handling. Standard improvements include a slightly revised front and rear fascias, a new pedal box for improved clutch use, slotted brake dust shields for improved brake cooling, standard HID (high-intensity discharge) headlamps, MyKey programmable vehicle key, integrated spotter mirrors, and fold-down rear headrests. The car also comes with an optional glass top roof previously available starting in 2009 with the Mustang GT.
