I'm very interested in hearing the initial opinions of other 2013 Shelby owners. I'm still gathering and processing my own thoughts because I've only had mine for a few days. And I'm not a "track car" guy, although I wish I had time to be. But I'm hoping to see some people post more about their experiences behind the wheel to go along with all of the posts about various mods, events, etc.

I've been somewhat lucky in the cars that I've had over my 44 years on the planet (stop laughing you young SOBs). Along the way I've owned an Acura NSX (best handling car yet, but nothing special off the line at all), a '97 Cobra (which I couldn't stand after the NSX because it handled like a barge), an '01 911 Carrera (good handling but no punch), and then the '12 Boss. I loved that Boss. Gripe as people may, once I had TracKey and felt the throttle response and engine braking, I was in love. Having side exhaust with the discs removed made every drive a windows-down necessity. Loved that car. Loved. That. Car.

Then they HAD to make the new Shelby. #^#%{%{%#^%!!!!! The new pony car wars are great, but... REALLY? There have only been a couple of times when I've driven over 150mph. Once in the NSX, once in the 911. So I won't be chasing 200 anytime soon. But there's a Mustang that can get there???

Ok, first impressions. Clutch pedal: less travel, which is good. Even with my long legs, the Boss had me stretching my toes to floor the clutch. Shelby is much more natural. And I don't have the "clutch pedal stays on the floor" issue that I sometimes had with the Boss.

Handling: Shelby is not quite as much of a "tied to the road" feel as the Boss, but not all that far off. I haven't pushed many corners yet, so I'll have to hold off on comments here.

Acceleration: As my niece would say, OMFG! First gear is awesome, but the first time I got a good launch and hit second just like ya wanna, I literally said "Holy sh[#" out loud. I loved 2nd gear in the Boss, but...wow.

Anyway, I've rambled on more than enough for now. How are the rest of you liking the '13 Shelby?

 

need a longer review from you!!!! LOL...so you traded the boss? honestly if I could swing it I would own both. The clutch pedal, to the floor for shifting, engagement feels good? hows the shifter itself and banging gears, any play, feel short or long?

 

I just wonder how many even own a 2013 GT500. Probably only a handfull have been delivered. Production of the GT500 is really just getting started.

 

Check out SVT owner/deliver thread. There are a lot of them starting to hit the ground and running. When I start seeing them in S. Florida, MIA area, then I know they are out there !

Nice write up. NEED PICS !

 

Yeah, I definitely rambled. It was an insomnia night.
Clutch/shifting feel great. Throws seem similar to the Boss as best I can recall, although the gates might be slightly wider on the Shelby. Gear selection/engagement feels more solid... none of the ambiguity of what gear I'm going into. I haven't really banged the gears yet except for a couple launches up to third gear, but it's been solid so far.

 

the shifter is tight, which I like, the motor was designed by the devil himself - it just pulls and pulls like there is no tomorrow. Ive had 600HP CTS-Vs and this new Mustang is in a class by itself. Even the interior is nice, Im pleasantly surprised.

F