Unleash the Beast: The Shelby Super Snake Starts at $160,000, But Customization is Limited
The Mustang has always been a car that screams raw power and unrestrained fun, and lately, it's been getting even more attention. With both Hennessey Performance Vehicles and Shelby American dialing up the ferocity on their Mustang variants, the competition is heating up. The spotlight is currently on the Shelby Super Snake, a name that brings back memories of motoring legends and exhilarating drives. And now, the Super Snake is once again making waves as Shelby American has just launched its configurator. But there's a catch – the customization options are pretty sparse.
Shelby American starts its magic with a 2024 Ford Mustang GT, spruced up with the 401A Premium High Equipment Group and the Performance Package. Unlike other manufacturers who bombard you with endless customizable options, Shelby keeps it straightforward. Buyers are limited to choosing the body style, color, and transmission – nothing more. That's right; your weekend cruiser won't be bogged down with unnecessary distractions or costly extras.
So, what can you really choose? The 2024 Shelby Super Snake offers the option of a fastback or a convertible, and you can pick between a six-speed manual or a ten-speed automatic transmission. Color-wise, you have six basic shades and four stripe options. If you want the most affordable Shelby Super Snake, it’s priced at $159,995 for a fastback model with a standard color and manual transmission.
For those who favor the convenience of an automatic transmission, budget an extra $1,595. And if you've got a more particular taste in color, expect to pay $295 for hues like Atlas Blue or Race Red, or even $495 for Rapid Red Metallic. Thankfully, the trademark triple-stripe graphics are included at no extra cost. However, opting for a convertible will hike the price by $5,500 due to the omission of a solid roof.
If you're curious about the highest possible price tag for a Shelby Super Snake, it’s $167,585. That would be a Ford Mustang GT convertible in Rapid Red Metallic, outfitted with the Premium High (401A) Equipment Group, the GT Performance Package, a ten-speed automatic transmission, and a black convertible top.
For those who crave the ultimate driving machine, the six-speed manual version paired with a 3.73:1 differential offers the most aggressive performance. Shelby chops down the base Ford Mustang GT Premium with the Performance Package to its essential elements and builds upon it with their Super Snake spec, totaling $100,555 on top of the $59,440 base chassis price. That’s a cool 40% markup over the stock GT but includes extensive upgrades.
What justifies the price tag? For starters, performance enhancements deliver an 830+ hp beast, boosted by a supercharger, an advanced cooling system with a radiator and heat exchanger, Borla exhausts, performance half-shafts, and more. Manual enthusiasts get a short throw shifter and a one-piece drive shaft, among other features. The suspension system is tuned for performance, the wheels are forged magnesium, and braking is reinforced with upgraded rotors.
But the upgrades don't end with mechanical enhancements. Shelby’s Super Snake distinguishes itself with unique body modifications and premium interior embellishments. Carbon fiber body elements, an aluminum hood, and aerodynamic add-ons make the Super Snake a visual stunner. Limited to just 250 units for the U.S. market, each car is serialized with plaques on the dashboard and engine, along with various Shelby insignias scattered throughout.
In summary, while Shelby American keeps customization options limited to keep things streamlined, the Super Snake makes up for it with a host of performance and aesthetic upgrades that make it worth every penny. With a blend of power and exclusivity, this Mustang variant is designed to turn heads and dominate the asphalt.