Ford and Shelby: An Automotive Powerhouse
Despite his work with Dodge, Carroll Shelby will be forever associated with the Ford Mustang. The improvements that he brought to this vehicle in the 1960’s and the innovations that he continues to make to the Mustang today have served to create an iconic muscle car that consistently pleases consumers and critics. When Shelby retired from racing in 1959, he began a legend that remains to this day.
Shelby first joined forces with Ford in the 1960’s, producing the famed Shelby Mustang GT350, the GT500 and 427 Shelby Cobra. His Little Red prototype inspired the 1968 Ford Mustang GT/CS, and his mark was left on the company for many years. Although he parted with Ford and moved on to work with other automakers, his return to Ford in 2004 has been met with enthusiasm from all corners of the auto industry.
In 2004, Ford and Shelby teamed up to produce the Ford Shelby Cobra Concept, which was met at auto shows with thunderous approval, thanks in part to its incredible 605hp engine. Next up was the 2005 Ford Shelby GR-1 concept car which could be the first ever 7 liter V8 engine, if it is approved. The Shelby 2005 GT500 was introduced at the same time, although Shelby did not have any direct connection with this particular model, other than advising what would improve the vehicle’s engine.
The new 2008 Ford Mustang GT500KR, the King of the Road, has already made tremendous waves. It draws it inspiration from the 1968 GT500 and fits in well with Ford’s push to return the Mustang to its performance roots. It was chosen as the new KITT in the remake of the popular Knight Rider series and promises to be an instant classic. A special model was auction at Barrett Jackson for an unheard of amount and people can’t wait to get their hands on the limited edition that will be made available to the public later this year.
It’s been 35 years since Shelby last designed an actual branded Mustang, but his return promises to help the automaker regain their top slot in muscle cars. The new 2008 model is already being called the most powerful muscle car ever made and Shelby couldn’t be happier to be working with Ford again. He stated in a recent interview, “I’m proud to once again be a part of an historical moment, bringing back the ‘King of the Road’ Mustang, and collaborating with Ford SVT and Ford Racing. I’m committed to continuously upping the ante when it comes to performance, and it’s great to be doing it with Ford.”
Shelby has numerous projects in the works with Ford, but the Mustang is what many people have been waiting for. His name is synonymous with some of the best Mustangs that were ever built or modified and this new collaboration can only mean good things for Ford. Although they had a rocky past, the future looks bright for Ford and Shelby, and certainly for the Ford Mustang.
