The team bearing Ford’s blue oval on their coveralls get to wear the garage king crown for their efforts with the new Shelby GT500, which was certified to produce 662 horsepower and 631 pound-feet of torque. That makes the 2013 GT500 more powerful than the Ferrari 458 Italia — lot more powerful.

How did Ford get that much power under the hood of the Mustang-based Shelby GT500? Displacement and forced induction. The block is a 5.8-liter V-8 with dual overhead camshafts and four valves per cylinder. Ford stuck with port injection for this beast, instead of going with the more efficient direct injection, which could be a lost opportunity or a future improvement.

On top of this engine is a new supercharger, a 2.3-liter forced induction unit powered by the engine to shovel air through the intakes. Ford says that the engine produces 395 pound-feet of torque at idle, then generates the peak 631 pound-feet from 2,000 to 5,800 rpm. The peak horsepower hits at 6,500 rpm, with redline at 7,000.

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According to the car manufacturer, only 50 white and 50 black units of each special edition of the Shelby 50th Anniversary Edition will be made, and each of them will be “dressed” in gold stripes. Shelby says that the three special editions of the Mustang will come with six piston front brakes, special wheels, custom interiors, commemorative 50th anniversary badging and a unique VIN number, which will be entered into the Shelby American registry. Future owners of the Shelby 50th Anniversary Mustang will receive a museum delivery ceremony at the Shelby plant in Las Vegas.

This is all we’ve got for now on the Shelby 50th Anniversary Edition Mustangs and there’s no official word on the price tag yet. The Shelby 50th Anniversary Edition Mustangs have been officially presented to the public at the 2012 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit.

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That’s more grunt than the Camaro ZL1, the Corvette ZR-1 or even the last generation Dodge Viper, which tells us that Ford wants customers to look at the GT500 in a whole new light. We’ll reserve gushing praise for when we get to drive the car, but color us impressed with its specifications, at least on paper.

Missing from the Los Angeles Auto Show was a topless version of the upcoming GT500. It seems like a must-build for Ford, since Chevy already showed a Camaro ZL1 convertible and it seems logical to expect a drop-top next-generation Viper, too.

If Topspeed is correct, we’ll see the 2013 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 convertible make its debut at next month’s Detroit Auto Show. Expect the same design themes applied to the coupe to carry over, including new wheels and a restyled front end.

There’s no word yet on pricing or availability, but expect the launch of the convertible to follow the launch of the coupe. We’ll keep you updated on the 2013 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 convertible as part of our comprehensive 2012 Detroit Auto Show coverage.

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Gene Bouchard ordered this Vintage Burgundy ’66 Mustang convertible from Ken O’Keefe Ford in Louisville, Kentucky, on a winter day in 1966. Ford scheduled it for assembly a short time late on February 22 at the Dearborn Assembly Plant. At the time, Scott was an impressionable kid who greatly anticipated the arrival of the family’s new Mustang. And when it arrived, it possessed an air of magic–the smell of the new interior and fresh paint burning off hot engine parts.

As Scott was hauled from pillar to post in the Mustang, he wondered what it would be like to drive it. In 1973, he got his wish. New driver’s license in hand, Scott took his first spin in his father’s Mustang.

When it came time for Scott’s parents to let go of the Mustang, there was debate on which family member should get the Mustang. But there was really only one choice. Scott had the drive and determination to take possession of the car and restore it to its former glory. But it hasn’t been easy serving as a steward for such an important family heirloom. His career has taken him and wife Shaunna all over the country, which isn’t easy to do when you’re restoring a classic Mustang. They’ve lived in the Northeast, around the Great Lakes, in the Mid-South, and west to Southern Arizona where they finally settled down in Tucson. It’s a place where they can drive the Mustang year round.

In the wake of a complete restoration in the mid-’90s, the Bouchards have shown their family treasure at just about every major Mustang Club of America national show. Five years ago, they finally took an MCA Gold in Concours Driven show competition. These days, Scott is focused on getting a grille medallion and entering the MCA’s coveted Conservator Class. Scott, a member of Tucson’s Old Pueblo Mustang Club, still has the original invoice and Ownercard.

When Scott restored the convertible 15 years ago, it was a step-by-step process. Paint and bodywork consisted of massaging out the flaws and rust, then laying down PPG two-stage paint in Vintage Burgundy. Once it was in paint, he tackled the suspension, brakes, engine, and driveline. The two-barrel 289 was completely rebuilt, incorporating hardened exhaust valve seats and new guides for use with today’s unleaded fuels. Scott not only wanted the car to look good, he wanted it to be reliable enough to drive anywhere.

Inside, much of the black vinyl standard interior is original because Scott’s father took exceptional care of the car. It is a religious experience to hold a three-speed shifter knob in your hand knowing it was screwed on at Dearborn. Scott has been meticulous about what is replaced and what’s best left alone.

When Scott revs the engine and releases the clutch to engage the three-speed manual transmission, the sound of the four-blade steel fan drowns out the engine as the Mustang moves under its own power like it did nearly half a century ago at Dearborn. This takes us way back, especially when looking back from today’s era of jellybean-shaped cars, electronic fuel injection, electric cooling fans, traction control, satellite radio, and six-way seats. By comparison, the Bouchard’s family Mustang is quite simple–wonderfully simple.

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The Boss 302 is the best Mustang ever, but that’s merely a footnote to the real story. The big news is that Ford’s newest bad boy not only puts an epic whupping on its traditional rivals — we’re talking to you, Chevrolet Camaro and Dodge Challenger — but also stands tall against perennial bullies like the BMW M3.

The 5.0 liter V8 found in the Mustang GT has been upgraded with a new intake manifold, forged rods and pistons, high lift cams, and other hot rod hocus pocus to produce 444 hp at a free revving 7400 rpm. Straight line enthusiasts will geek over 0-60 mph times near four seconds flat and quarter mile blasts in the mid twelves. But even more impressive is how well the Boss handles despite a live rear axle seemingly designed when Henry Ford was a young punk. The standard model benefits from stiffer springs, a beefier rear antiroll bar, and five-position manually adjustable dampers. Or you can upgrade to the Laguna Seca package, which includes rear seats replaced by an X-brace to improve structural rigidity, snug-fitting Recaro seats, grippy 19″ R-compound PZero Corsa tires, a serious front splitter, a hefty rear wing, brake cooling ducts, and a Torsen differential. Although the $7000 premium sounds pricey, this gives you a $48,000 track day car that can crush competitors costing twice as much.

Yet the Boss manages this feat without overwhelming the driver. On the contrary, everything about it just feels right, the Alcantara steering wheel, the confidence inspiring Brembo brakes, the close ratio short throw six-speed manual with the throwback ball shift knob. Oh and it also looks pretty sweet and sounds positively wicked, and that’s before getting rid of the easily removable exhaust baffles. The new Boss many not ever be worth as much as the original 302 sold in 1969 and 1970 but it might make you king of the hill in 2012.

Other 2012 Automobile Magazine All Stars include the Audi TT RS, BMW 3-series, Dodge Charger, Ferrari 458, Ford Focus, Honda Odyssey, Porsche Boxster and Cayman, Range Rover Evoque and Volkswagen Golf.

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The first thing most of us think of when this word appears is electricity, or more accurately a lack of power due to the weather humbling our usually mighty infrastructure for the second time in just a few months.

But in the case of this week’s review auto, I’m referring to the power under the hood – in fact, the kind of serious muscle that makes one particular coupe a true wheel-spinning pony car with all the best attributes of the breed’s storied past. Better still, there’s a host of modern technology present as well to improve every aspect of the car’s performance.

Ford has had great success with the rebirth of the “retro” Mustang in 2005, where they went back to the car’s original styling cues for inspiration and infused the sports coupe with modern engineering. For the 2012 model year, Ford has brought back a popular model of the Mustang that is not just paying homage in name only. The Limited Edition Boss 302 is not just about nostalgia; it may just be the finest example of the Ford’s famous rear-drive two-door that has ever graced the marketplace.

As with all outstanding performance machines, the Boss 302’s strength doesn’t lie in any one specific area but rather in the quality of the complete package. The centerpiece is (like the original Boss 302) a 5-liter V8, which is of course also 302 cubic inches, hence the famous name. Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing boosts horsepower to 440, with an equally robust output of 380 lb.-ft. of torque. The engine is tuned for a flat, smooth power curve with a satisfying top-end thrust, yet even more impressive is the tuning of the exhaust as it delivers a vocal personality that is robust yet never too over-the-top.

A close-ratio six-speed manual is the transmission, and the racing-derived clutch is light and easy to modulate. The car starts with the Mustang GT suspension, which is further reinforced with higher-rate coil springs and adjustable shocks and struts, while overall ride height is lowered by 11 mm. The electronic power steering is not only tuned for feedback, it’s actually adjustable via an instrument cluster menu. Braking technology is supplied by Brembo, and overall the Boss’ acceleration, handling and braking are impressive and beautifully balanced. Power is plentiful, yes. But power without balanced engineering is far less enjoyable, and this coupe is as well-rounded as they come.

The final icing on the cake is the optional Recaro sport seats, which, thanks to the excellent ergonomic support and comfort, make you feel as if you’re a part of the machine rather than just along for the ride. All these elements combine to make (in my opinion) the best overall Mustang ever, as every detail serves to make this is true driver’s car.

The 2012 Ford Mustang Boss 302 is EPA-rated 17 MPG city/26 highway and has a base price of $41,105.

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There are exciting Ponies in a variety of price points and performance levels. Whether you desire the sporty V-6 with 305 hp that can knock down 31 mpg, or the brute force of the 550hp Shelby GT500, there is a Stang to fill your craving.

We've sampled the powerhouse '12 GT500 and the amazing Boss 302, and now we are excited to feel the wind behind the wheel of the '12 5.0L GT convertible. During a recent trip to the Sunshine State, we slipped into this fully optioned ragtop that was loaded with navigation ($2,340), power everything, Security Package ($695), Comfort package ($595), and featuring Ford's new Lava Red Metallic paint.

The modern 412hp 5.0L engine has ample torque, high-rpm power, and it sounds fantastic. Equipped with a six-speed manual, our tester had plenty of giddyup, and it hauled us nicely to speed with an amazing amount of style and grace. It was at home on the highway, in traffic, or when pushed through some exciting mountain roads.

New for '12 are a handful of options, including three modes of adjustment in the EPAS (Comfort, Normal, and Sport), illuminated vanity mirrors, a universal garage-door opener, and multi-purpose sun visor, along with the optional Reverse Sensing System, Security Package, and HID headlamps.

Having a convertible in SoCal, I naturally popped open the easy-to-use release latches for the top and powered the roof to the stowed position. Installing the boot cover was simple and gave the GT a clean, finished look. I was impressed with the ride quality of this open-air machine, as cowl shake and overall NVH was kept to a minimum. Ford states a 12-percent improvement in lateral stiffness over the '10 model.

The improvements in chassis, suspension, and technology also include new SYNC applications for Traffic, Directions, Information, and 911 Assist. We were also impressed by the standard AdvanceTrac electronic stability control. According to Ford: "It complements the all-speed traction control and standard ABS." And that can be rather useful during spirited drives.

Additional standard equipment on the '12 Mustang includes the Personal Safety System, which features dual-stage driver and front passenger airbags, seatbelt pre-tensioners, and beltminder.

We're always thrilled to see new colors, and as you can see, Lava Red Metallic is unique and classy. Its hue is a purple/brownish that is reminiscent of the Mystic color found on the '96 SVT Cobra. The color is dark--in fact, under shade, Lava Red appears to be black, but with a deep metal flake. The special color will be available in limited quantities; selecting it also gets you color-coded seat and door panel inserts.

One option we've come to love is the $1,695 optional Brembo brake package. The upgraded binders provide great feel, improved braking, and aesthetic appeal. Included are the sportier 19-inch alloy wheels wrapped in P255/40/19-inch Pirelli tires. Base sticker price for the '12 Mustang GT convertible is $38,145; our loaded tester came in with a total MSRP of $44,845.

We enjoyed the ragtop GT, as it provided a fun experience for us, especially when we tossed it around the autocross course during the NMRA/NMCA West Coast Shootout. It was surprisingly neutral and well balanced. Understeer was much reduced and the steering set to Sport mode, we recognized a wonderful level of feedback.

Once again Ford has built a Mustang that gets the job done, both on track and on the highway. And with the Lava Red, it's perhaps more subdued than flashier ponycars on the road.

It's a horse that can carry you and your passengers with style, comfort, and all the performance that you'd expect from a fully optioned Mustang GT.

Once again Ford has built a Mustang that gets the job done, both on track and on the highway.

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The reason for this, according to Ford Racing’s Jesse Kershaw, is that it will allow the ’13 CJ to compete in a wider variety of NHRA sanctioned events than previous versions of this car.

Other changes on the 2013 model  include revisions to the CJ’s suspension, steering, even the roll cage design and seats in an effort to balance improved capability while minimizing mass. “We’re looking at ways to cost-effectively take weight out of the Cobra Jet,” said Kershaw “and are also paying close attention to the final price. Based on our research we know where the car needs to be performance and price wise.”

The 2013 Mustang Cobra Jet is slated to make it’s debut at this year’s Performance Racing Industry (PRI) show, which runs from December 1-3 at the Orange County Convention Center, in Orlando, Florida, with production likely to begin sometime next year.

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Other new features include an interior upgrade with optional SVT-designed Recaro front seats that Ford says was designed to combine road racing inspiration with purposeful, high-performance Mustang design.

In all, the 2012 Shelby GT500 Mustang is a lot like the previous model year with a few additional improvements. With 550 hp under the hood, and stunning looks to match, the car is a force to be reckoned with.

New for 2012

Interior upgrade with optional SVT-designed Recaro front seats
The latest technology such as SYNC & AppLink
Selectable steering tailored to driver’s needs
Illuminated dual visor vanity mirrors
Universal garage door opener
Multipurpose sun visor storage

New Selectable Steering
According to Ford, selectable steering offers drivers with a choice of three custom settings. The driver can select the steering effort depending on his or her style of driving. The Shelby GT500’s settings were specifically tuned on both the base car and Performance Package configurations. Ford says the assist levels are less than other Mustang models, since the Shelby GT500 customer typically demands more road feel.

Comfort mode provides the least amount of road force felt through the steering wheel and requires the least amount of steering effort, which was designed for long, relaxing drives. A standard mode also is available and is a balance between the comfort and sport settings. The settings are accessed and programmed through the message center. “It’s one more feature we’ve developed to tailor the vehicle to fit customers’ likings,” explained Kerry Baldori, SVT global performance vehicle chief functional engineer. “Our engineers have tuned and developed three separate modes so customers can select the one appropriate for almost any situation.”

Ford says engineers took advantage of electric power-assisted steering (EPAS), first introduced on the 2011 Shelby GT500, to provide lower efforts for parking and low-speed agility without sacrificing on-road feel. Additionally, when the customer selects sport or off mode within AdvanceTrac, Ford’s stability control system, the vehicle automatically switches the steering to the sport mode for improved road feel and higher, more progressive efforts. Also in that mode, active nibble control and drift pull compensation are shut off to give the customer maximum road feel in aggressive driving maneuvers.

New SVT/Recaro Performance Seats
The 2012 Shelby GT500 also features optional leather-trimmed sport bucket front seats designed by SVT in cooperation with Recaro ($1,595). Ford says the seats, which feature an embroidered “cobra” logo, enhance the high-performance driving experience. Lateral bolsters in the cushion and seat back are used to improve support needed on the track during hard cornering and to deliver a comfortable ride. The seats are colormatched to the car’s exterior stripes. They also come complete with integrated head restraints with ample room for drivers and passengers wearing helmets on the track. Openings on the seat back also are included for customers looking to create performance setups for their car on track days.

“These seats are designed to deliver optimum driver control and comfort,” said Jamal Hameedi, SVT chief nameplate engineer. “I have been sitting in them for months now and have never wanted more support or more comfort when driving, even on long road trips or at the racetrack.”

The optional Recaro seats, which are also featured in the 2012 Boss 302 Mustang, are the result of a global team effort led by SVT along with the Mustang engineering group in North America, Team RS in Europe, and Recaro.

The Latest Technology
Ford says The Shelby GT500 is the first vehicle in the Mustang lineup to offer AppLink with the standard SYNC interface, as well as being integrated into the optional voice-activated Navigation System and providing the additional convenience of an 8-inch touch screen for control. AppLink is the free software program that gives SYNC users voice control of apps stored on their smartphone. Co-developed with Ford, the Clarion Navigation System available on Shelby GT500 is loaded with a number of features and functions designed to provide customers a superior level of connectivity and information, including an extensive set of navigation tools as well as up-to-the-minute news about weather, traffic, fuel prices, movie listings and more through SiriusXM Traffic and SiriusXM Travel Link.

Performance and Handling
The 2012 Shelby GT500 Mustang is once again powered by a supercharged 5.4-liter DOHC V8 engine. Total output is an impressive 550 hp @ 6,200 rpm, with the car achieving 510 lb.-ft. torque at 4,250 rpm. Fords EPA gas mileage estimates for the car are 15 mpg city/23 mpg highway, and as with the 2011 model, the 2012 Shelby GT500 does not include a gas guzzler tax.

The car is available with a stick shift option only, featuring Ford’s TREMEC® 6-speed manual transmission. Brembo front rotors and calipers are standard equipment, as is a 3.55 Rear Axle Ratio. The selectable Electronic Power Assist Steering (EPAS) is also a standard feature.

The 2012 GT500 also features the optional Ford SVT Performance package ($3,995). The purchase of this option comes with a 3.73 limited-slip rear axle,19-inch painted forged-aluminum front wheels, 20-inch painted forged-aluminum rear wheels (with P265/40ZR19(F) P285/35ZR20(R) tires), high-performance front and rear springs, unique front and rear stabilizer bars, specialized rear shocks, a rear spoiler with distinctive Gurney flap, a custom gear shift knob, and unique exterior stripes.

Exterior Looks, Pricing, and Availability

Performance package or not, the Shelby GT500 Mustang gets noticed wherever it goes. Standard features include Dual Stainless-steel exhaust with 4-inch tips, automatic HID Headlamps, Fog lamps, LED Sequential Tail Lamps, and a Shelby rear decklid spoiler. It also features a Unique Shelby Front/Rear Facia and Shelby GT500 Badging on faux gas cap. There is a Shelby badge on the rear decklid and a Cobra badge on Shelby front fender and grille. It sports an aggressive looking hood thanks to its Aluminum design with dual heat extractor. Over-the-top racing stripes and GT500 side stripes are also standard, with a tape stripe delete available as an option.

In addition to being offered as a coupe, the Shelby GT500 Mustang is also available as a convertible. Coupe owners can opt for the optional glass top roof ($1,995).

The 2012 Shelby GT500 has a starting MSRP of $48,810, while the convertible starts at $53,810. Unlike a post-title Shelby Mustang package, the GT500 Mustang is built at Ford’s AutoAlliance International Plant in Flat Rock, Michigan.

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Mays said that the redesigned and revamped Mustang will be tied into the model’s 50th anniversary.

The new Ford Mustang is a very important one for Ford as General Motors’ Chevrolet Camaro has ended ints 24-year run as the top-selling U.S. sports car in 2010. This year, the Camaro continues to beat the Mustang through August – 63,255 to 51,564.

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