670 kW R4.4 million Shelby GT500KR coming to South Africa

The GT500. The pinnacle of modern muscle car performance has eluded us since its inception, but that’s about to change. Carrol Shelby was also known as the “King Of The Road”. That title was passed down to a 1968 GT500 birthing the legendary GT500KR. In 2008 the world received the second-gen Shelby GT500KR, and now South Africa will finally receive the third-generation GT500KR.

GT500KR

Image: Mecum Auctions

The KR badge’s founding father was a 1968 GT500 with white-knuckle-inducing oomph and the agility to cement itself as a track-capable fastback/convertible. The 1968 GT500KR featured the esteemed 428 cubic-inch Cobra Jet V, which produced 250 kW, although rumours suggest that the proper power output sat closer to 298 kW and 596 N.m. Alongside abundant power, an exterior constituting endless air scoops, a large front grille, and redesigned front fascia curtailed by a chrome bumper echoing the more aggressive “KR” DNA.

GT500KR

Image: Mustang Specs

In 2008 the second generation Shelby GT500KR was unveiled. This iteration of the KR lineage had slightly more power than stock —30 kW more, as a result of the supercharged 5,4-litre V8— as well as a myriad of handling and mechanical adjustments from the short-throw shifter to a new rear axle allowing for better acceleration. Unique tyres, tuned suspension and even a special composite bonnet. The second generation GT500KR had more power and more adjustments that the first iteration.

GT500KR

Image: QuickPic

This will be the third time a GT500 will receive the KR branding. The KR badge signifies superiority amongst many of Ford’s fleet, and the latest heir to the KR throne is no slouch. 670 kW from the supercharged 5,2-litre V8 at the heart of the new GT500KR —107 kW more than the standard GT500— making it the mightiest GT500KR ever.

GT500KR

Image: QuickPic

Although overwhelming power is fun, being able to control all that power is even better. To accompany the upgraded power plant, lighter components have been introduced, such as alloy wheels and carbon fibre bonnet, as well as more aggressive suspension settings and sway bars.

Only 225 examples will be made worldwide of which four are scheduled to be built at Shelby South Africa. Interested? Well, for a small fee of R4,4 million, you could own one of the most unbelievable and prestigious muscle cars to ever grace South Africa’s shores.

The post 670 kW R4.4 million Shelby GT500KR coming to South Africa appeared first on CAR Magazine.


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