Shelby GT500 Drag Races Charger, Challenger, and Z06: Who Reigns Supreme?
It’s always exhilarating when legends clash on the dragstrip. This time, the spotlight is on the Ford Mustang Shelby GT500, a titan in its own right, as it faces off against some of America's most iconic muscle cars – the Dodge Charger, Challenger, and Chevrolet Corvette Z06. Racing aficionados and car enthusiasts alike were in for a treat as the video from Drag Racing and Car Stuff on YouTube chronicled these epic battles across two different tracks.
Ford's Icon: The Mustang Shelby GT500
The Ford Mustang, now in its seventh generation with the S650, continues to dominate the sports car scene. Current models include the EcoBoost, GT, and the all-new Dark Horse. However, the Shelby GT500 remains a model of yesteryears that still commands immense respect. With the Mustang GTD supercar currently in the limelight, fans of the blue oval badge hold on to the memories of the potent GT500.
The Competitors: Dodge Charger and Challenger
Dodge has shifted gears dramatically with the discontinuation of the L-bodied Charger and Challenger. The new generation Charger, which embraces an STLA Large platform and offers turbo inline-six and electric powertrains, signals a bold new direction for the brand. However, it's the retired V8 Hemi beasts that continue to captivate hardcore enthusiasts, especially on the dragstrip.
The Competition: Corvette Z06
Chevrolet's Corvette Z06, particularly the C7 generation, remains a formidable foe. Though the newer C8 has taken on a mid-engine configuration with variants like the Stingray and E-Ray, the previous generation is far from obsolete. These vehicles still pack enough punch to give any competitor a run for their money on the quarter-mile.
The Real-World Tests
The racing action kicks off at the Orlando Speed World Dragway. The first showdown features the Shelby GT500 against a Dodge Charger 392 with potential Daytona trim. In an exciting display, the Mustang effortlessly bested the Charger, clocking a 10.02-second run to the Charger's 10.94 seconds.
Then came the main event: the Mustang Shelby GT500 against the Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat. This night-time race was a more intense affair. The Shelby showed no mercy, decimating the Hellcat with a blistering 9.67-second pass, far outpacing the Hellcat's 10.95 seconds. It was a definitive victory, solidifying the GT500's prowess.
A Meeting with the Z06
The action shifted to Palm Beach International Raceway for the final race, pitting the Mustang Shelby GT500 against the C7 Corvette Z06. The Z06, adorned with a parachute, hinted at potential surprises. However, the Mustang once again held the upper hand. The GT500 sailed through the quarter-mile in 9.94 seconds, edging out the Z06's 10.58-second run.
The Verdict
In these skirmishes, the Shelby GT500 made a definitive statement: it's still a beast on the dragstrip. Whether facing the formidable Dodge lineup or the nimble Corvette Z06, the Mustang consistently came out on top, showcasing explosive power and refined engineering. For enthusiasts and fans, this isn’t just about speed; it’s about legacy, and the Shelby GT500 has proven it's still a king among muscle cars.
