When it comes to high-performance muscle and exotic engineering, the clash between the Ford Shelby GT500 and the Ferrari 296 GTS is nothing short of spectacular. The Shelby GT500, discontinued after the 2022 model year, was the most powerful production Mustang until the arrival of the upcoming Mustang GTD in 2025. With both cars featuring Ford’s 5.2-liter supercharged V8, this comparison underscores the intense rivalry in the high-performance segment.
A Show of Power and Speed
The Shelby GT500 boasts an impressive 760 horsepower courtesy of its supercharged V8 engine, making it a formidable contender in any drag race. In contrast, the Ferrari 296 GTS, with its 819 combined horsepower, easily outshines the Mustang. Despite the GT500’s carbon-fiber wheels and advanced tires designed for drag racing, the sheer power of the Ferrari’s hybrid twin-turbo V6 makes it a force to be reckoned with.
Performance Metrics: How They Stack Up
Ferrari’s 296 GTS is powered by a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6, producing 546 pound-feet (740 Nm) of torque, while the Shelby GT500’s Predator V8 delivers 625 pound-feet (848 Nm) of torque. Both vehicles utilize dual-clutch automatics, but the Ferrari’s mid-engine setup and YASA-supplied electric motor give it a distinct advantage at launch. The Ferrari’s lightweight construction further enhances its performance, with the 296 GTS weighing significantly less than the GT500.
Drag Race Results: Ferrari Dominates
In a series of three drag races, the Ferrari 296 GTS emerged victorious each time. Despite the GT500’s superior torque and advanced drag racing features, it struggled against the Ferrari’s superior traction and acceleration. The results were telling:
- Ferrari 296 GTS: 10.29 seconds in the quarter mile
- Shelby GT500: 11.65 seconds in the quarter mile
Ford claims the GT500 can achieve a quarter mile in 10.7 seconds, with some owners even reaching 10.6 seconds under optimal conditions. However, the Ferrari’s consistent performance underscores its edge in acceleration and handling.
Looking Ahead: The Next Shelby GT500 and Mustang GTD
The future of the Shelby GT500 promises even more power, with rumors suggesting the next model will exceed 800 horsepower. Meanwhile, the Mustang GTD is set to push the boundaries of performance with its goal of a sub-7-minute lap time at the Nürburgring. This ambitious target surpasses previous records held by both the first-generation Ford GT and the Shelby GT500, signaling Ford’s commitment to racing excellence.
As the automotive world eagerly awaits the next chapter in the Mustang’s performance saga, the current showdown between the Shelby GT500 and Ferrari 296 GTS highlights the fierce competition and innovation driving the high-performance car market.
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