Yes, the 2010 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor is impressive, but if you'd still prefer a street truck appearance on your upgraded Ford truck, look no further than the Shelby F-150 Super Snake.
The Shelby package, unveiled today at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway, is designed to improve the power, handling, and curb appeal of the last-generation Ford F-150. Under that new hood (the scoop is functional) rests a supercharged 475-hp 5.4L V-8 engine.
While we think the company's claim that the powerful Shelby truck has "go cart-like handling" is taking it a bit too far, we're sure the suspension's 3-in. drop will make this Ford more nimble.
The performance and visual upgrades can be installed separately at Shelby's facility in Vegas, so whether you're a believer in go before show or vice-versa, Shelby has you covered. As for those visual upgrades, we like the 22-in. wheels and the stripe that starts with the revised front fascia, carries over the roof and onto the bed lid. Interior changes include special leather seats with embroidered headrests, new floor mats and, oh yes, a Shelby CSM interior plate.
If this were our 2003-2008 Ford F-150, we'd be much more likely to invest in the Borla exhaust system and the forged Shelby / Baer brakes with six-piston calipers with cross drilled and vented rotors. Shelby is prepared to make as many as a few thousand a year.
Now that you've upgraded that F-150, why not turbocharge your Shelby or Mustang GT? Shelby's also introducing a turbo package that ups horsepower to 550 at the crank.
“In 1985, Carroll used a turbo to turn Chrysler’s K Car into a rocket,” said Amy Boylan, president of Shelby Autos. “Though we’ve offered supercharged packages for vehicles for several years, many enthusiasts longed for a turbo option because of the different driving characteristics offered with this type of force induction.”
For $22,599, a 2007-2008 Shelby GT or 2005-2009 Mustang GT with a manual transmission benefit from a number of upgrades besides the turbocharger including a short throw shifter, 18-in. chrome aluminum wheels, Shelby gauge pod and gauges, Borla dual exhaust, a modified suspension, upgraded brakes, and more. An eight-point roll cage and a Shelby GT-H front and rear fascia are optional.
Source: Shelby