Shelby Taking Its 800-hp GT500 Super Snake to the New York Auto Show

Among all the cars that will debut at the New York auto show this month, few will turn rubber to smoke faster than the Shelby Super Snake package for the 2012 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500.

The 2012 model will crank out 750 hp in standard tune and 590 lb-ft of torque. It uses an upgraded version of the 5.4-liter V8 currently found in the GT500. The optional Shelby/Kenne Bell tuning will get buyers 800 hp on pump gasoline.

New York was chosen for the debut because of the history Shelby and the Big Apple show have. The first Shelby car was introduced there in 1962, and another was shown in 1968. The 2006 Shelby Hertz GT-H began its journey in Gotham, as did the 540-hp GT500KR.

Pricing hasn’t been announced yet, but representatives from the company promise this Shelby will come in at less than $100,000–for both the donor car and the upgrades. The car will have a limited production run, with cars available to the public starting on May 1.

The 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 Super Snake includes:

— Ford Racing handling pack including dynamic adjustable dampers, lowering springs, tuned stabilizer bars and front strut tower brace

— Optional Shelby/Eibach handling pack

— Six-speed manual transmission with a 3.73:1 rear-axle ratio and short-throw shifter

— Borla exhaust system

— Shelby-designed Alcoa 20-inch wheels

— Forged Shelby/Baer brakes with six-piston calipers and cross-drilled, vented rotors

— Front-brake cooling ducts and behind-the-door side scoops

— Unique fiberglass hood with the signature Shelby design and hood pins

— Shelby classic Super Snake stripes in either matte black or matte white

— Super Snake vehicle badges and an embroidered interior

The 2012 Shelby GT350 coupe and convertible will also debut at the New York show. The car will be offered in two new body colors, Race Red and Kona Blue.