Ok, performance guys... a question for ya... if ya please:

The 2012 Shelby GT 500's supercharged 5.4L is rated at "550" HP.
The 2012 5.0L with a Roush supercharger is rated at "540" HP.

It seems the 5.4L supercharged should be pushing 600 HP... apples to apples if they produced horsepower as well as the 5.0L, right?

Question: is the 5.4L detuned for warranty purposes, or doesn't the 5.4L engine produce horsepower as well as the 5.0L... apples to apples?? Inquiring minds want to know!

 

Not really apples to apples. They are different motors and different blower set ups.

 

Well, I understand that, but I'm curious about the actual potentional of the 5.4L versus the 5.0L. I'm considering wether to invest in a 5.0L Supercharged or a Shelby 5.4L. Performance wise the 5.0L seems to be more bang for the buck & a more advanced engine design. Off the top of my head it appears they are pushing more PSI through the 5.0L creating more HP. Are Shelby owners running high PSI's and having good success with that?

 

If you want an off the shelf performance edge, the Roushcharged 5.0L wins (more power and it will out handle the GT500). If you want a modding platforum, the 5.4L has a stronger aftermarket at this point... but I'm sure the 5.0L will surpass it quickly.

 

2 different motors:: 2 different platforms..
If you are set on 2012 then I say get the gt500: the potential of the gt500 power is pretty easily increased without issue... Allot of owners are driving around gt500 with over 775 hp...with no issues at all...you can always build a faster car easily but no replacement for displacement ...
Now if you can wait I would hold out to 2013 and get the gt500 with the 5.8 and the TVS supercharger stock. ... Should be over 600hp

 

Upgrade your 4.6L to the 2010 Roush 540RH (Stage 3) engine package. Rated at same HP as the new stage 3 but makes much more torque. If considering a GT500 you should wait a year ;-)

 

Technology is the displacement replacement these days.
The 540 Hammer motor is built on a forged bottom end and will take a LOT of abuse. I know of a couple that are flirting with 4 digit rwhp. The downside is you can't just 'upgrade' now... you have to buy a Hammer to have it from Roush.

The 5.0L tech is going to get better and better. If you are looking at buying a new car, look at all aspects: Power, handling, style and of all warranty (especially what is and isn't covered if you modify it).

 

Stats:
2012 GT500 550hp 510tq
2012 Roush Stage 3 540hp 465tq

 

Those are the 'rated' stats for insurance purposes. Real world is a bit different, and that is the number to look at.

Most of the stock dyno numbers I've seen for the 2012 GT500s (100% stock) put down 500hp or so to the wheels. 2012 Roush RS3 (100% stock) are putting 500 to the wheels as well.

 

i say wait for 2013 5.8L gt500.