The Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 is one of the most iconic American performance cars ever built. Arizona Elite Motors regularly stocks multiple GT500s across model years because these are the cars our team and our customers are passionate about. Here's what you need to know before buying one.
GT500 Generations Overview
| Generation | Years | Engine | HP | Typical Price (Pre-Owned) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| S197 (First Gen) | 2007-2009 | 5.4L Supercharged V8 | 500 hp | $30,000-$45,000 |
| S197 (Updated) | 2010-2014 | 5.4L/5.8L Supercharged V8 | 540-662 hp | $35,000-$65,000 |
| S550 | 2020-2022 | 5.2L Supercharged V8 | 760 hp | $65,000-$95,000 |
Note: Ford did not produce a GT500 from 2015-2019. The gap between the S197 and S550 generations makes both collectible in their own right.
S197 GT500 (2007-2014) - The Classic Supercharged Shelby
2007-2009
The first modern GT500 revived the Shelby name with a supercharged 5.4L V8 making 500 hp. It came exclusively with a 6-speed manual transmission. The car is heavy compared to a standard Mustang GT, but the supercharger whine and raw power delivery make up for it.
What to look for: These are now old enough that rubber components (hoses, bushings, motor mounts) may need refreshing. Check the supercharger snout for play and listen for any whine changes at different RPMs. The Tremec TR6060 transmission is strong but check for grinding in 2nd and 3rd gears, especially on higher-mileage examples.
Modifications to appreciate: A pulley swap, cold air intake, and tune are the most common bolt-on mods for this generation. A well-tuned S197 GT500 with supporting mods can make 550-600 hp reliably. We regularly carry these setups and they're some of the best performance-per-dollar cars on the lot.
2010-2012
The 2010 refresh brought updated styling, a more refined interior, and the same 5.4L engine now making 540 hp. The 2011 and 2012 models added the SVT Performance Package with better cooling and a shorter final drive ratio.
What to look for: Same drivetrain considerations as 2007-2009. The SVT Performance Package is highly desirable and adds real track capability. Check if the car has the optional Recaro seats - they're a strong indicator the original buyer was an enthusiast.
2013-2014 - The 662 HP Monster
Ford dropped the 5.8L Trinity supercharged V8 into the GT500 for 2013-2014, making 662 hp. At the time, it was the most powerful production V8 in the world. Still a manual-only car.
What to look for: The 5.8L engine is strong but runs hot. Verify the cooling system is in good shape. Upgraded intercooler and heat exchanger setups are common and welcome modifications. Check the clutch - the stock clutch can slip above 700 hp, so if the car is modified past that point, look for an upgraded clutch.
Why these are special: The 2013-2014 GT500 represents the peak of the front-engine, manual-transmission, supercharged Mustang formula. Ford hasn't made anything quite like it since. Prices have been climbing as collectors recognize this.
S550 GT500 (2020-2022) - The Modern Supercar Killer
The S550 GT500 is a different animal entirely. The 5.2L Predator engine makes 760 hp through a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (no manual option). It runs mid-10s in the quarter mile from the factory.
What to look for: These are still relatively new, so major mechanical issues are rare. Check the DCT for smooth shifting, especially in low-speed traffic situations. The Carbon Fiber Track Pack (CFTP) adds a massive rear wing, carbon fiber wheels, and Recaro seats - it's the most desirable configuration and commands a premium.
Modifications: Even stock, these are serious machines. Common mods include a pulley swap and E85 tune, which can push the car past 850 hp. We've carried several modified S550 GT500s and they're among the fastest street cars you can buy at any price.
GT500 vs Other Performance Mustangs
| Model | HP | Transmission | Character |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mustang GT | 450-480 hp | Manual/Auto | The daily-drivable foundation |
| Mach 1 | 480 hp | Manual/Auto | GT with better handling and cooling |
| Shelby GT350 | 526 hp | Manual only | Flat-plane crank, track-focused, naturally aspirated |
| Shelby GT500 | 500-760 hp | Manual/DCT | Maximum power, supercharged, straight-line king |
The GT500 is the power play. If you want the most brutal straight-line speed and don't mind the weight, the GT500 is it. If you want a lighter, more track-focused car, look at the GT350 with its flat-plane crank Voodoo engine.
What to Expect When Buying from Arizona Elite Motors
We carry GT500s because we love them. Our team knows these cars inside and out - what to look for, what mods are worth it, and which examples are the best buys. Whether it's a stock 2014 with low miles or a built 2020 on E85, we stand behind every GT500 we sell.
Every Shelby in our showroom gets:
- CARFAX report and full vehicle history
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
- Indoor climate-controlled storage (Arizona heat is brutal on supercharged cars)
- Detailed mod list documentation when applicable
Browse our current Mustang and Shelby inventory or contact us about a specific GT500 you're looking for.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I buy a used Shelby GT500 in Phoenix?
Arizona Elite Motors regularly carries Ford Mustang Shelby GT500s at our indoor showroom at 1005 E Madison St, Phoenix, AZ 85034. We stock multiple model years and generations. Call (480) 866-8000 or browse our inventory online.
Are Shelby GT500s reliable daily drivers?
The GT500 can absolutely be daily driven. The supercharged engines are robust with proper maintenance, and modern examples (2013+) have comfortable interiors and decent technology. Arizona's dry, flat roads are ideal for these cars. The main consideration is fuel economy - expect 15-18 mpg in mixed driving.
Should I buy a modified GT500?
Modified GT500s can be excellent buys when the work is done right. Look for quality parts (Whipple, VMP, Lethal Performance), professional tuning (from a reputable shop with dyno sheets), and documentation of the work performed. At Arizona Elite Motors, we evaluate every modified car the same way - quality of build, supporting modifications, and overall condition.