2008 Ford Shelby GT500

The 2008 Ford Shelby GT500 carries on the long-running association between the Mustang and Carroll Shelby, the racing legend and automotive designer linked to Ford since the late 1950s and early '60s, when he used Ford engines in his Shelby Cobras. In fact, the new Shelby GT500 is a throwback (at least in name) to the original 1960s-era GT500, which was one of Shelby's most famous Ford supercars.

True to its name, the 2008 version of the Shelby GT500 features a 500-horsepower, 5.4-liter, 32-valve supercharged and intercooled V8, which links to a Tremec six-speed manual transmission. The GT500 also features an SVT (Special Vehicle Team) performance-tuned suspension, and 18-inch machined aluminum wheels with SVT center caps.

In keeping with its status as a unique supercar in Ford's stable that's a step above the standard Mustang, the GT500 comes equipped a number of unique features, including functional air extractors in its reshaped hood and unique front and rear fascia treatments that give the car a more hunkered-down, muscular appearance (as if the standard Mustang doesn't look muscular enough). The Le Mans-style over-the-top racing stripe and side stripes also help set the car apart from its Mustang brethren.

The 2008 Shelby GT500 gets special treatment inside as well. Features include unique leather sport bucket seats, a six-gauge instrument cluster with SVT graphics and a supercharger boost and message center, and a six-speaker Shaker 500 AM/FM stereo system with a six-disc CD changer and an MP3 input jack.

As you might expect, mileage for the GT500 won't break any records (it hovers somewhere around 15 mpg around town), but fuel efficiency isn't the goal here. Power is, as is that unique Shelby styling. And for those who prefer open-air driving, the GT500 comes in a convertible version, as well as the standard two-door coupe version.