Ford Mustang Shelby GT500KR S197
The return of the King of the Road, packing 540 horsepower and carbon-fibre aero.
- Power
- 540 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 4.3 s
- Top speed
- 155 mph
- Est. value
- $40k–$75k
About the Ford Mustang Shelby GT500KR S197
Released to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the original 1968 'King of the Road', the 2008 GT500KR was a collaboration between Ford SVT and Shelby American. It features a unique carbon-fibre composite hood with functional scoops, a revised cold-air intake, and a shorter 3.73:1 rear axle ratio for improved acceleration. The suspension was significantly stiffened with SVT-tuned springs and dampers, while the exterior is distinguished by 18-inch Alcoa forged wheels and twist-lock hood pins. It remains a highly sought-after modern muscle car, bridging the gap between the standard GT500 and the track-focused Super Snake.
Ford Mustang Shelby GT500KR S197 specs
The Ford Mustang Shelby GT500KR S197 produces 540 bhp (403 kW) and 691 Nm (510 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 4.3 seconds and has a top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h).
| Make | Ford |
|---|---|
| Model | Mustang Shelby GT500KR |
| Generation | S197 |
| Trim | 5.4 V8 |
| Years | 2008–2009 |
| Type | Muscle |
| Body style | Coupé |
| Country | United States |
| Production | About 1,712 built |
| Original price | About $77,000 when new |
| Engine | 5.4-litre supercharged V8 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 5,408 cc (5.4 litres) |
| Induction | Supercharged |
| Power | 540 bhp (403 kW) at 6,250 rpm |
| Torque | 691 Nm (510 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,250 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 4.3 s |
| Top speed | 155 mph (250 km/h) |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,767 kg (3,896 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 306 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Ford Mustang Shelby GT500KR S197 worth?
A typical Ford Mustang Shelby GT500KR S197 is estimated to be worth $40,000 – $75,000 (about £30,000 – £56,000).
Its original price when new was about $77,000.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Ford Mustang Shelby GT500KR S197 rarity in CarSpot
The Ford Mustang Shelby GT500KR S197 is a Rare card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 53 out of 100. Performance cars, typically worth around £50,000 to £100,000. A Rare card is worth 40 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Ford Mustang Shelby GT500KR S197 fun facts
- The 2008-2009 production run of 1,712 units was intended to mirror the exact production total of the original 1968 GT500KR.
- The GT500KR's carbon-fibre hood was so expensive to produce that it reportedly cost Ford nearly $20,000 per unit to replace.
- It served as the inspiration for the talking car 'KITT' in the 2008 Knight Rider television reboot.
