Shelby is honouring the 100th anniversary of its founder, Carroll Shelby, with a limited run of 100 Centennial Edition Mustangs in the US and another 21 in other markets. Shelby South Africa has managed to secure three of these unique models, which are available on order through Shelby South Africa’s regional mod shops.
Article by: Ford
Carroll Shelby was born on 11 January 1923 and led a diverse and fascinating life that culminated in becoming an icon of motorsport and muscle car culture. Shelby grew up in Texas and became the second American driver to win Le Mans overall in 1959, capturing America’s first FIA sports car world championship title. His pioneering ideas around performance went on to change the course of the US automotive industry.
“Carroll never claimed to be an engineer, designer or mechanic,” says Gary Patterson, President of Shelby American. “He believed he was best at putting people together. From the group of hot rodders, he banded together to take on the world’s racing elite, Carroll understood that motivated people can achieve almost anything,” says Patterson.
“This new, limited-edition car celebrates Carroll Shelby and honours his many achievements,” says Vince LaViolette, Shelby American Vice President of Operations and Chief of R&D. “To properly honour him required us to build a car that was truly born to run. Our new Carroll Shelby Centennial Edition Mustang is a well-balanced car that is far more than just a horsepower upgrade. We sharpened the handling and enhanced the styling of the world-class 5.0-litre V8 Mustang GT. It delivers all the performance that Carroll required to have his name on a car.”
The Centennial edition is based on the current 2023 Ford Mustang GT and is available as either a fastback or convertible, with a manual or automatic transmission. Regardless of the body style, the muscular 5.0-litre V8 comes fitted with a supercharger to increase the standard output from 442hp (330kW) to 750hp (560kW) of supercharged power.
Additional engine upgrades include a Shelby performance radiator as well as Shelby fluid caps. A free-flowing Borla exhaust system helps to maximise the V8’s signature sound throughout the rev range. Handling improvements are equally comprehensive with performance springs and sway bars to imbue the Centennial with sharper and more direct handling on the track without compromising its on-road comfort. Adjustable caster and camber plates also provide a level of fine-tuning and personalisation to unlock even more dynamic precision around corners. Stopping power is effortlessly taken care of by a set of Brembo callipers fitted behind the front wheels.
To help visually differentiate the Centennial Edition from the well-known Super Snake, this latest model comes fitted with a striking array of bespoke performance parts designed to make it stand out. The front fenders have been widened to fit the menacing 20-inch alloys, which are wrapped in high-performance rubber. More visual punch is provided by the Shelby upper grille, rear spoiler, Shelby tail panel, side rocker wings, and satin black vinyl striping. Inside, the sense of performance is immediately evident thanks to Shelby floor mats, a new gauge cluster, door sill plates and a Shelby-spec leather upgrade.
Each Carroll Shelby Centennial Edition Mustang includes membership of Team Shelby – the worldwide club Carroll Shelby established in 2008. These models are also eligible for documentation in the official Shelby Registry.
To make this occasion even more special, each of the new Centennial Edition cars will include a donation to the Carroll Shelby Foundation.
Pricing of the Carroll Shelby Centennial Edition starts from R2 800 000 – pricing can vary depending on exchange rate.
