Autoblog

UPDATE: Video of Ford revealing the GT500KR has been added after the jump

click above image for 34 high-resolution pics of the Shelby GT500KR

A few of us here at Autoblog Towers consider the Shelby Cobra GT500 to be the purest expression of the musclecar genre since lead was removed from pump gas, so watching Carroll Shelby wander up on stage to introduce the GT500KR was an experience that could probably only be rivaled by using all 540 HP to set up the rear tires in a fog of acrid smoke.

We've already covered the pertinent details in an earlier post, and there's no new information to add at this time - other than the fact that the car looks downright lethal in person. Shelby did elaborate a bit, however, on how the KR designation originally came to be back in 1968 - it seems that the Texan got word that GM was planning on using the moniker for a big-block Corvette but had not yet registered it as a trademark. Shelby kicked his lawyer into gear, placed a call to 3M to get "GT500KR" badges on the way, and a few calls to his factory clarified that week's production plan. Back in those days, legends were born with a lot less red tape.

Check out our gallery and video of the press introduction, and take a gander at the rest of our New York Auto Show coverage while you're at it!




PRESS RELEASE:

2008 Ford Shelby GT500KR

Launching next spring, the 2008 Ford Shelby GT500KR model features a 5.4-liter supercharged V-8 with a Ford Racing Power Upgrade Pack that boosts engine output to an estimated 540 horsepower.

Produced in a limited edition of 1,000 units, the Shelby GT500KR coupe comes with a custom carbon composite hood with scoops and stainless steel twist-down hood pins, a lower front air dam with chrome-trimmed functional brake ducts and large 14-inch Brembo front brakes. The suspension has been modified with an emphasis on race-inspired handling.

Drawing inspiration from the classic 1968 KR model, the Shelby GT500KR also features 40th Anniversary exterior badging, unique striping and a distinctive interior with Carroll Shelby-signature embroidered seats and a 40th Anniversary numbered dash plaque.