Ford has officially rolled out its sleek 2013 Shelby GT500 convertible at the Chicago Auto Show.
As you may recall, the coupe version of the GT 500 debuted several months back and packs in a 650hp 5.8L V-8 engine producing 600 foot-pounds of torque.
The convertible version of the 2013 GT500 is equipped with the same engine, horsepower and torque as the coupe.
“The Shelby GT500 convertible is every bit the performer that the coupe is,” explained Ford exec Kerry Baldori. “All of the significant changes we made in the program were instrumental in delivering a convertible that could really shine on the track but can still be driven on a daily basis.”
The convertible can also be loaded with the optional performance and track packages. When fitted with the performance package, the 2013 GT500 put down lap times at Sebring International Raceway that were 3.5 seconds faster than the 2011 and 2012 GT500 models.
The special Performance Package boasts SVT Bilstein electronic adjustable dampers capable of switching from street to sport mode at the touch of a button, along with components designed to keep the engine and other components chilled during hard use – including an external oil cooler, differential cooler, and transmission cooler.
Finally, the GT500 convertible is fitted with improved Brembo brakes that include with six piston front calipers, along with larger rotors on the front and rear.
