How does the Shelby Super Snake-R push the limits of Mustang performance?
Shelby American has never been shy about turning the Mustang into a fire-breathing monster, but the new Super Snake-R takes things to a whole new level. Built on the already formidable Mustang Dark Horse, this beast boasts a supercharged 5.0-liter V8 that churns out over 850 horsepower. That’s not just a bump—it’s a leap, especially considering the base Dark Horse starts at 500 hp. Whether you’re a die-hard manual fan or prefer the convenience of a 10-speed automatic, Shelby’s got you covered. Both options send all that power straight to the rear wheels, keeping the classic muscle car spirit alive.
What makes the Super Snake-R more than just a straight-line brute?
It’s easy to assume that a car with this much power is only good for drag strips, but Shelby insists the Super Snake-R is their best-handling car yet. That’s a bold claim, but the hardware backs it up. Adjustable coilovers let you fine-tune the suspension for street or track, while metal spherical bearings replace the usual rubber bushings for sharper response. There’s a rear strut bar tying the shock towers together, and the brakes have been beefed up to match the car’s newfound speed. Even with all these upgrades, the Super Snake-R tips the scales at just 4,004 pounds—only 116 more than the standard Dark Horse. In the world of high-performance cars, that’s a pretty reasonable trade-off for the extra muscle.
How does the Super Snake-R stand out visually?
Shelby’s never been about subtlety, and the Super Snake-R is no exception. The car wears a suit of carbon fiber, with new front fenders, hood vents, a splitter, rear diffuser, and a massive fixed rear wing. The rear arches are flared to house custom 20-inch forged magnesium wheels—each saving nine pounds compared to standard alloys. Those wheels aren’t just for show; they’re wrapped in huge 335mm tires at the back, giving the car a planted, aggressive stance. Buyers can choose from classic Mustang hues like Grabber Blue Metallic, Race Red, Oxford White, Shadow Black, or Carbonized Gray Metallic.
What’s new inside the Super Snake-R?
Step inside, and you’ll find the same attention to detail. Shelby-branded leather with Alcantara inserts covers the seats, and if you go for the manual, you’ll get a custom billet shift knob that feels just right in your hand. There’s a serialized plaque on the dash—because exclusivity matters—along with embroidered floor mats, puddle lamps, and unique sill plates. It’s a blend of track-ready focus and luxury touches that remind you this isn’t just any Mustang.
How does the price compare to other American performance icons?
Let’s not sugarcoat it: the Super Snake-R is expensive. Prices start at $225,995, which includes the cost of the Mustang Dark Horse donor car. That’s a hefty sum, especially when you realize it eclipses the price of Chevrolet’s Corvette ZR1X, a car that recently made headlines as the fastest American production car around the Nürburgring at $207,395. But for those who crave the Shelby mystique and the thrill of owning one of the most powerful Mustangs ever built, the price is part of the story. Every Super Snake-R comes with a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty, and the original Ford powertrain coverage remains intact, offering some peace of mind for your investment.
Is the Super Snake-R worth it for enthusiasts?
For the Mustang faithful, the Super Snake-R isn’t just about numbers—it’s about the experience. The combination of raw power, track-focused engineering, and Shelby’s storied history creates something that’s more than the sum of its parts. Sure, it’s not cheap, and it’s not subtle, but that’s exactly the point. This car is for those who want to make a statement every time they hit the road or the track.
The big takeaway? Chasing the ultimate Mustang isn’t about perfection—it’s about smarter, bolder adjustments. Start by exploring what matters most to you—power, handling, style—and you’ll find that the right tweaks can transform your driving experience in ways you never expected.