Twin-Turbo Shelby Code Red is a Monster of a Mustang

By John Coyle - August 24, 2022

The GT500 Code Red will have crazy power, a crazy price, and an extremely limited run. So if you’re interested? Act fast.

Over the years, the mad scientists at Shelby American have made some crazy powerful Mustangs. The current GT500 is pushing 760 horsepower, the Ford Shelby GT500KR is packing 900 ponies, and back in 2018, the Shelby 1000 even broke the triple-digit mark. But if there’s anything we’ve learned about the Sin City-based outfit, it’s that too much isn’t anywhere near enough — and the Shelby GT500 Code Red is proof positive.

That said, after reading the specs on this baby, Code Brown might be a better name. Because this thing is going to be a monster. When running on E85, output will be a stratospheric 1,300 horsepower and 1000 lb-ft of torque, though running on pump gas will reduce it to a measly 1,000 horsepower and 780 lb-ft. As you’d expect, getting those kind of numbers means there’s nary an area of the car that Shelby hasn’t touched.

Along with a pair of Xona 7869S dual ball bearing turbochargers, the internals of the engine have been fortified with bespoke Manley pistons, ARP main and head studs, and Ferrea competition valves. A MoTeC M150 engine management system was utilized to keep all the greasy bits in check, and drivers will be able dial in available power via the factory drive modes.

Of course, there have been a host of other changes to the car too. Along with the engine bits, every GT500 Code Red will be fitted with a carbon fiber front splitter, an open rear diffuser, wide body side rocker wings, and a rear wing spoiler. The interior has also been given the full treatment, and sports red and black leather racing seats, a rear seat delete, and a harness bar, along with a numbered dash plate and unique embroidered floor mats.

Now, all of that sounds pretty great, and if you’re wondering what the catch is? Well, there are a few. First, Shelby America is only going to build 30 cars in total, and pricing will start at $209,995 — not including the GT500 donor machine. Also, if you were wondering how Shelby managed to get those power numbers and keep these beasts street legal, the short answer is that they didn’t, which makes this a track toy only. According to the Shelby, production is already underway, so keep your fingers crossed we get some video soon!

Photos: Shelby America