Shelby American, the renowned American performance car manufacturer, recently made headlines with the announcement of their ‘new’ $500,000 coupe. However, what many people may not realize is that this so-called ‘new’ car is actually based on a design that is 25 years old. While some may see this as a disappointment, there is more to the story than meets the eye.
The car in question is the Shelby Series 2, a limited-edition sports car that was first introduced in 1999. It was designed as a modern interpretation of the iconic Shelby Cobra, a legendary sports car from the 1960s. The Series 2 was intended to be a continuation of Carroll Shelby’s vision, combining classic design elements with modern technology and performance.
So why is Shelby American reintroducing a car that is a quarter-century old? The answer lies in the fact that the Series 2 was never fully realized back in the late ’90s. Only seven examples were built before production was halted due to various reasons, including regulatory issues and financial constraints. As a result, the Series 2 became somewhat of a forgotten gem in Shelby’s history.
Fast forward to today, and Shelby American has decided to revive the Series 2 project. The company has acquired the remaining original chassis and components from the ’90s and has made several updates to bring the car up to modern standards. This includes improvements in performance, safety features, and overall build quality.
Underneath its classic exterior, the ‘new’ Series 2 boasts a modern powertrain. It is powered by a naturally aspirated 5.2-liter V8 engine, producing an impressive 580 horsepower. This power is sent to the rear wheels through a six-speed manual transmission, ensuring an engaging driving experience. With a top speed of over 190 mph and a 0-60 mph time of just 3.5 seconds, the Series 2 is no slouch in terms of performance.
In addition to the mechanical updates, Shelby American has also enhanced the car’s safety features. The ‘new’ Series 2 now includes modern amenities such as anti-lock brakes, traction control, and stability control. These additions not only improve the car’s overall safety but also make it more accessible to a wider range of drivers.
While some may argue that Shelby American should have developed an entirely new car instead of resurrecting an old design, there is something undeniably special about the Series 2. It represents a piece of automotive history that was never fully realized, and now enthusiasts have the opportunity to own a piece of that legacy.
Furthermore, the limited production run of the Series 2 ensures exclusivity and rarity. Only 25 examples will be built, making it a highly sought-after collector’s item. Each car will be meticulously hand-built by Shelby American’s skilled craftsmen, ensuring the highest level of quality and attention to detail.
In conclusion, while Shelby American’s ‘new’ $500,000 coupe may be based on a 25-year-old design, it is far from being outdated. The Series 2 represents a unique blend of classic styling and modern performance, offering enthusiasts a chance to own a piece of automotive history. With its limited production run and updated features, the ‘new’ Series 2 is sure to turn heads and capture the hearts of Shelby fans around the world.
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- Source: https://zephyrnet.com/shelbys-new-500000-coupe-is-actually-25-years-old/