Top 15 Best Legendary Carroll Shelby Cars 2020

Are you in love with the Shelby cars? If yes, click this article to find out more about the top 15 legendary Carroll Shelby cars now!

Every diehard fan of the automotive industry will know clearly about what a Carroll Shelby car can do. For those who do not know Carroll Shelby, he got a reputation for being a racer first. Then, he made himself a legend when turning his career into auto-building and design.

What Are The Best Legendary Carroll Shelby Cars?

This list serves as a summary of the top 15 legendary Carroll Shelby cars that are going to be reviewed in-depth. Let’s have a quick look at them:

Best Overall: Shelby GT500SE Signature Edition

“Supercar, sizzling styling, additional power, razor sharp handling”

Best for Carbon Material: Shelby GT500CR

“Carbon fiber body, potent, stunning interior, limited edition”

Best for Racing: GT40 Shelby Edition

“Glorious engine, awe-inspiring pull, adaptive suspensions, faster”

Best for Aerodynamics: Daytona Coupe (CSX9000)

“Updated suspension, abundant strength, reduced road noise, rigid structure”

Best for Polished Performance: Carroll Shelby Signature Series 2020 Mustang

“Refined styling, brutal power, poised handling, unparalleled beauty”

Best All-performing: Shelby Super Snake

“An all-new car, robust chassis, massive power, outrageous muscle car”

Best for Sports Cars: Shelby 427 Cobra

“Authentic driving experience, modern, skinny-framed windscreen, stellar execution”

Best Lightweight: Shelby 289 Street Cobra

“Light, reliable, powerful, thrilling driving experience”

Best for Roadster: Shelby 289 FIA Cobra

“Responsive, nimble, tenacious grip, racing-specific rubber”

Best Supercharged: Shelby GT-S Sixt

“Fast automatic transmission, great supercharger, high-quality ride and comfort”

Best for Muscle-car Presence: Shelby GT500

“Fast and fun, apex-hunting machine, aggressively styled”

Best GT iconic: Shelby GT

“Fully customizable, dynamic handling, thrilling performance, stylish wheels”

Best Functional: Shelby GT350 SE Signature Edition

“Luxurious interior, limited, functional styling elements, modern”

Best for High-performance Driving Skill: Shelby GT350

“Attractive, futuristic technology, dynamic, stunning performance”

Best in Budget: Shelby Wide Body

“Wider track, comfortable, fully adjustable, big power”

Top 15 Legendary Carroll Shelby Cars Comparison Chart 2020

By looking at this comparison chart, you can quickly pick out the most suitable car for your need!

Product Name	Engine Type	Horsepower
Best Overall: Shelby GT500SE Signature Edition	V- 8	800+
Best for Carbon Material: Shelby GT500CR	V – 8	810
Best for Racing: GT40 Shelby Edition	V – 8	500 – 750
Best for Aerodynamics: Daytona Coupe (CSX9000)	CSX 900 small block	550
Best for Polished Performance: Carroll Shelby Signature Series 2020 Mustang	V – 8	825+
Best All-performing: Shelby Super Snake	V – 8	825
Best for Sports Cars: Shelby 427 Cobra	V – 8	500 – 750
Best Lightweight: Shelby 289 Street Cobra	V – 8	271
Best for Roadster: Shelby 289 FIA Cobra	V – 8	385
Best Supercharged: Shelby GT-S Sixt	V – 8	600+
Best for Muscle-car Presence: Shelby GT500	Supercharged V- 8	760
Best GT iconic: Shelby GT	V- 8	700+
Best Functional: Shelby GT350 SE Signature Edition	V- 8	526
Best for High-performance Driving Skill: Shelby GT350	V- 8	526
Best in Budget: Shelby Wide Body	Supercharged V – 8	750

Top 15 Legendary Carroll Shelby Cars Reviews

Best Overall: Shelby GT500 SE Signature Edition

https://www.shelby.com/Vehicles/GT500-Signature-Edition

The Shelby GT500 SE Signature Edition is the perfect choice for those looking for a car that balances every element. Shelby American has integrated a new set of pulleys to enhance the performance of this version.

With a 5.2-liter V8 engine cooler, the Shelby GT500 SE Signature Edition can generate more than 800 hp when pumped with 93 octane gas. This decisive advantage has contributed to the outstanding of the Signature version.

Another great thing about the Shelby GT500 SE Signature Edition is the wheels, tires, interior, and loads of new elements. You can freely choose between a variety of options, even the popular broad body package available. Certainly, Shelby American will upgrade more for this car in the future.

Key Features

Shelby Wide Body
Painted Stripes
Rear seat with harness bar

Pros

New pulley sets improve efficiency
The 5.2-liter V8 engine cooler can generate more than 800 horsepower
The lightweight dry carbon fiber in the hood reduces the weight of the car

Cons

Suitable for professional drivers

Specifications

Price	Starting at $101,490
Displacement	5.2L
Engine type	V – 8
Horsepower	800+
Transmission	6-speed M/T

Best for Carbon Material: Shelby GT500CR

https://www.shelby.com/Vehicles/Shelby-GT500CR

Made from carbon material, the Shelby GT500CR is the ideal choice for all car lovers. After going into production, this particular vehicle has received countless orders. With the 1967/68 limited carbon version, the manufacturer will distribute only 25 units at Shelby American’s Las Vegas facility.

You will undoubtedly be impressed with its outstanding performance. Each Shelby GT500CR buyer will receive a unique badge. You also have the opportunity to experience personalized shipping and check-in at the Shelby Global Registry. When you buy this car, you also contribute to the Carroll Shelby Foundation.

The manufacturer uses the SpeedKore Performance Group’s boiler cured prepreg carbon fiber to wrap the Shelby GT500CR. This car also incorporates Whipple’s 5.0L Gen 3 Coyote turbocharged engine and a Tremec six-speed manual transmission.

And yet, Shelby GT500CR also carries a scroll bar, a hydraulic steering rack. The interior of the car is beautifully furnished. Buyers will be overwhelmed by the Alcantara trim with the Lecarra leather-wrapped aluminum steering wheel.

Key features

Vaporworx Twin Electric Fuel Pumps
Stealth 18 Gallon Fuel Cell- Wilwood 6 Piston front, 4 Piston Rear
Slotted, Cross-drilled, and Zinc Washed Rotors

Pros

Outstanding performance thanks to the tubular subframe connector and Wilwood brakes
High-quality interiors bring luxury and a classic look
5.0L Gen 3 Coyote turbocharged engine keeps the car running smoothly

Cons

Low roar

Specifications

Price	Starting at $298,000
Displacement	5.8L
Engine type	V – 8
Horsepower	810
Transmission	Tremec 6-speed M/T

Best for Racing: GT40 Shelby Edition

https://www.shelby.com/Vehicles/GT40-Shelby-Edition

GT40 Shelby Edition is one of the standout examples for racing cars. In 1965, at the Le Mans 24 hours – the world’s most massive stage, Henry Ford II hit Ferrari by switching to Carrol Shelby.

In this way, they gave the blue oval car the absolute victory. The combination between Ford and Shelby created a 1-2-3 win in the 1996 race. Not stopping there, from 1966 to 1969, they won the “W.”

Based on the original styling, the manufacturer designed the suspension utterly independent of the surrounding unibody chassis. This chassis is made of steel monolith.

Also, users can completely swap 2/3 parts of this car with the original racing car. The A-shaped arms of the GT40 Shelby Edition are also of unequal length. The manufacturer also keeps the same size of GT40 Shelby Edition as its old version. They also have a 2 x 10-gallon fuel tank.

Drivers will enjoy the original cockpit with Smith-style gauges. Each seat inside has silver studs.

Key features

Front hood latch with cables
Aluminum door eyebrows
Vertical wind deflectors

Pros

Steel material ensures both the solidity and the classic look
The standard size, like the first version, reminisces about the history
Original cockpit with a very durable interior

Cons

There is no CCTV in the back

Specifications

Price	Starting at $180,995
Displacement	7.0L
Engine type	V – 8
Horsepower	500-750
Transmission	205mph

Best for Aerodynamics: Daytona Coupe (CSX9000)

https://www.shelby.com/Vehicles/Daytona-Coupe-CSX9000

When it comes to cars with superior aerodynamics, the Daytona Coupe is an indispensable product. For European high-speed races such as the Le Mans, Cobra race cars still lack the aerodynamics even though they dominate the United States’ tight roads.

In 1964, thanks to the suggestion of Carroll Shelby to Peter Brock and Ken Miles, they upgraded Cobra’s coupe version to compete in the market. They quickly became prominent by the name Daytona.

In 1965, Shelby American became the only American manufacturer to create a car that won the FIA World Sportscar GT multi-class vehicle. It is driven by professional racers Bob Bondurants, Allen Grant, Phil Hill, and Dan Gurney.

With this upgraded version, the Daytona Coupe (CSX9000) has a more modern color scheme but retains the leaf spring suspension and tubular chassis. Also, the manufacturer still keeps the wooden-rimmed steering wheel.

The remarkable thing is that this car retains its uniqueness with new improvements in safety and performance. The manufacturer also uses high-quality black leather to cover the interior. The frame is also firmer than the old version with modern disc brakes.

Made of fiberglass, the Daytona Coupe (CSX9000) is a step up from the original. Modern features make this car even more attractive, such as the updated air-conditioning or suspension.

Key features

Dual A-arm, coil over shock, four wheel independent suspension.
12.8 “x 1.25” vented rotors with vacuum-boosted dual-piston Shelby caliper, standard front brakes.
Power-assisted rack & pinion steering

Pros

Modern features bring the most convenience to the driver.
The passenger compartment has a considerable height for you to sit more comfortably.
The interior with black leather upholstery ensures both durability and increases aesthetics.

Cons

Low roar

Specifications

Price	Starting at $179,995/ $349,995
Displacement	N/A
Engine type	CSX 900 small block
Horsepower	550
Transmission	Tremec T56 6-speed M/T

Best for Polished Performance: Carroll Shelby Signature Series 2020 Mustang

https://www.shelby.com/Vehicles/2020-Carroll-Shelby-Signature-Mustang

It is not wrong to say that the Carroll Shelby Signature Series 2020 Mustang is a car with excellent polished performance. This car is the perfect balance between flawless beauty and a powerful engine.

Despite its subtle styling, the Carroll Shelby Signature Series 2020 Mustang is not as light as it looks. Convenience with high performance will bring a brutal force.

Many people evaluate that this “beast” carries the highest performance in the Shelby American models. With two years of diligent design and careful modification, the Shelby American team has created a perfect car. It is incredibly worthy of the name of Carrol Shelby.

The manufacturer has widened the bodywork so that the driver and passenger have more comfortable seats. The aluminum profile, combined with the frame, creates a square foot mold.

This design adjusts the Magne Ride suspension, and a one-piece forged Monoblock wheels to maximize output up to 825 hp. To balance the air and temperature under the hood, Shelby American also features a metal wind hood and front shield.

Key features

825HP Shelby by Whipple supercharger system
Shelby extreme cooling (radiator, aluminum tank, heat exchanger)
Performance half shafts

Pros

The spacious body creates a comfortable and comfortable seat
Metal wind hood and front spoiler for air balance
The look is both classic and strong

Cons

More suitable for professional racers

Specifications

Price	Starting at $127,795
Displacement	5.2L
Engine type	V – 8
Horsepower	825+
Transmission	6-speed M/T

Best All-performing: Shelby Super Snake

http://www.shelby.com/Vehicles/Shelby-Super-Snake

Shelby Super Snake was first released by Shelby American five decades ago. This completely new 2020 version has been upgraded and improved with a lot of great details. As an all-performing car, Shelby Super Snake will delight any driver.

Thanks to a Ford 5.0L V8 supercharged 825 hp, Shelby Super Snake takes only 3.5 seconds to start from 0-60.

The new suspension and brakes allow it to dash on the road. But don’t worry as it is easy to operate. You’ll see it as a king of high-performance tires with 20-inch Shelby cast-aluminum wheels.

Furthermore, outstanding styling with optimal handling is made up of a complete body and suspension system. It can be said that the manufacturer designed most of the new parts for Shelby Super Snake. You’ll love the new hood, the windshield, the splitter, and a ton of other elements.

Key features

One-piece drive shaft (manual only)
Ford Performance wheel studs
Ford Performance track handling pack

Pros

The powerful engine helps the car accelerate very quickly
Optimal handling gives users comfort
New design but still retaining classic beauty

Cons

The booster makes a loud noise

Specifications

Price	Starting at $123,295
Displacement	5.0L
Engine type	V – 8
Horsepower	825
Transmission	4-speed M/T

Best for Sports Cars: Shelby 427 Cobra

https://www.shelby.com/Vehicles/427-Cobra

Many people consider the Shelby 427 Cobra a symbol in the history of the American sports car model. What made Shelby and the Ford Motor Company decide to incorporate the powerful 427 FE engine into the Cobra? Ferrari upgraded the power of the V12 engine running GTO or when GM started a new Corvette.

Carroll Shelby designed a part of the chassis with a completely new body to fit the 427 into her Cobra. Also, he invented a new independent suspension system.

The frame is reinforced for more security. Thanks to that, it can handle the increase in torque and modify the body to fit with large wheels and tires.

The Shelby 427 Cobra, known initially as the CSX4000-series, was first produced in 1997. To this day, you can choose between aluminum or fiberglass.

Key features

4-inch diameter DOM steel frame
Dual A-arm, coil-over-shock, four-wheel independent suspension
1 “x 11-7 / 16” OD disc, dual-piston Shelby caliper, tandard rear brakes

Pros

Choose between fiberglass or aluminum
The chassis is firmly reinforced to ensure the durability of the vehicle
Outstanding performance helps you enjoy your ride

Cons

There was no roof

Specifications

Price	Starting at $95,995
Displacement	7.0L
Engine type	V – 8
Horsepower	500-750
Transmission	4-speed M/T

Best Lightweight: Shelby 289 Street Cobra

https://www.shelby.com/Vehicles/Shelby-289-Street-Cobra

Shelby 289 Street Cobra is part of the DNA of every future Shelby car. Shelby created this car line for the first time in a rental store. With the lightweight feature, Shelby 289 Street Cobra can completely surprise everyone with its power.

Shelby equipped a new small-displacement Ford engine for this car. Today’s Shelby 289 Street Cobra is still primarily based on the first car to use the original suspension and bodywork.

However, the latest version has been updated in materials and designed by the manufacturer to ensure performance. Plus, you can count on the safety of Shelby 289 Street Cobra. There are two materials: aluminum or glass for you to choose from.

Key features

Shelby vinyl, optional leather seats
Shelby custom black carpeting
15 “hard-spoke wire wheels

Pros

The lightweight makes this car more agile
The eye-catching design brings exquisite beauty
Sensitive handling helps you cope with many situations

Cons

No windows and no heaters

Specifications

Price	Starting at $95,995
Displacement	4.7L
Engine type	V8
Horsepower	271
Transmission	4-Speed M/T

Best for Roadster: Shelby 289 FIA Cobra

https://www.shelby.com/Vehicles/FIA-289-Cobra

Shelby 289 FIA Cobra is a small displacement roadster but very reliable. It is fitted with a special rubber coating for racing. Its track is more comprehensive than before.

The manufacturer also adds rigidity to this car. So it can accelerate faster while ensuring a durable road grip. The small chassis helps the car become more agile with the V8 engine.

Key features

3-inch diameter DOM steel frame
Upper transverse leaf with lower arms, independent front, and rear suspension
1 “x 11-7 / 16” OD disc, dual-piston Shelby caliper, standard front brakes

Pros

The sturdy frame ensures the driver’s safety
Enjoy acceleration with high traction ability
The V8 engine delivers high efficiency

Cons

There was no roof

Specifications

Price	Starting at $95,995
Displacement	4.7L
Engine type	V – 8
Horsepower	385
Transmission	4-Speed M/T

Best Supercharged: Shelby GT-S Sixt

https://www.shelby.com/Vehicles/Shelby-GT-S-Sixt-Mustang

With excellent turbocharging capabilities, the Shelby GT-S Sixt was built at its Las Vegas facility. The manufacturer limits this model to 20 units. They equip 5.0L V8 engines for each car to ensure outstanding performance.

To maximize the vehicle’s capabilities, Shelby American also adjusts the suspension. But the car did not lose quality. Another advantage of this model is the Brembo brake system with impressive stopping power.

On the Shelby, GT-S Sixt is the SIXT badge with exclusive bodywork. A stylish new wheel for striking power.

Key features

600+ HP Shelby Super Charger
Shelby GT deep draw hood with vents
Shelby GT front fascia assembly

Pros

Brembo brakes ensure outstanding safety
The new and creative design brings a youthful style
Powerful engine and excellent turbocharging

Cons

Noise may be caused

Specifications

Price	Starting at $90,000
Displacement	5.0L
Engine type	V – 8
Horsepower	600+
Transmission	10-speed A/T

Best for Muscle-car Presence: Shelby GT500

https://www.ford.com/cars/mustang/models/shelby-gt500/

The Shelby GT500 seems to be the perfect combination of a modern sport and an iconic muscle car. More specifically, it is equipped with the racetrack-capable chassis and additional horsepower. This brings more credibility to the new 2020 Shelby GT500 version at the drag strips.

As you may know, the model of Mustang Shelby GT500 was initially introduced in 1967 before being ultimately used between 2013 and 2014. And now, in 2020, it is reborn with the best performance. Track tires, optional carbon-fiber wheels, and aerodynamic assistance are what you can get from this definitive version.

Regarding fuel economy, it is estimated to be at 18 mpg on the highway. But it is only 12mpg when driving in the city. Another feature of the Shelby GT500 that you might enjoy is the interior. Its magnetorheological dampers will prevent your body from shock and keep everything under control.

Key features

Selectable drive modes
12-inch all-digital LCD cluster
14-cubic-feet trunk

Pros

The handling is phenomenal
The supercharged V-8 ensures high efficiency
The transmission is very quick and smart

Cons

Unusable rear seat

Specifications

Price	Starting at $72,900
Displacement	5.2 L
Engine type	Supercharged V-8
Horsepower	760 @ 7,300 rpm
Transmission	7-Speed A/T

Best GT iconic: Shelby GT

https://www.shelby.com/Vehicles/Shelby-GT

The Mustang GTs line revealed two new versions of Shelby GT and GT-H in 2019 for those being into Mustangs. What captures every driver’s attention in this version might be the upgraded suspension, unique wheels, and custom bodywork.

Specifically, customers can choose the convertible or the coupe with either a 6-speed manual or 10-speed automatic transmission. In terms of engine, the standard car is set up with a 5-liter V8. This type can produce 480 hp, but you can ask for the optional Ford Performance system to boost it over 700 hp.

Being the only naturally aspirated car from Shelby, the Shelby GT will be the right choice for all enthusiasts. This gorgeous car promises to bring dynamic handling and thrilling performance for any of your drives. It is ready to shred every corner and shovel in miles when driving on a road trip.

Key features

20” aluminum, CS3 wheels
Luxury Katzkins interior
Ford Performance suspension system

Pros

Embroidered floor mats bring more aesthetic appearance
Shelby spec tires
Caster camber plates

Cons

The additional horsepower is unavailable from launch

Specifications

Price	Starting at $70,499 – $75,499
Displacement	5.0 L
Engine type	V-8
Horsepower	700+
Transmission	10-speed A/T

Best Functional: Shelby GT350 SE Signature Edition

https://www.shelby.com/Vehicles/GT350-Signature-Edition

The Shelby GT350, the first Mustang-based model, was created in 1965 thanks to the combination between Shelby American and Ford. Then, a Carroll Shelby Signature Edition, including the 2015-2020 Shelby GT350 and GT350R, was revealed to celebrate this 55-year collaboration.

Similar to other cars in the same line, Shelby GT350SE is equipped with the engine V-8 and 5.2 litters. However, it is upgraded by adding suspension and more aggressive springs.

Besides, there are forged wheels, front and rear sway bars, and caster camber plates. These extras can enhance its agility on the track and the road. Additionally, the upgrade price is exceptionally affordable. It mainly comes at $9,995.

Key features

CSM numbered engine plate
All-leather recovers and Carroll Shelby signature
Aluminum Monoblock wheels

Pros

Additional suspension
Front and rear springs
Billet Engine caps

Cons

No extra power on tap

Specifications

Price	Starting at $69,153 – $82,130
Displacement	5.2 L
Engine type	V-8
Horsepower	526
Transmission	N/A

Best for High-performance Driving Skill: Shelby GT350

https://www.ford.com/performance/gt350/

Shelby GT350 is considered as a playbook for exhilaration as your heart will beat faster when looking at it. The engineers upgraded this car with the MagneRide Damping System, which makes use of all improvements. In particular, the system adjusts itself 1,000 times/second.

You can imagine how dynamic Shelby GT350 will give you. It is certain that you will have a breathless and adrenaline-fueled driving experience. Another feature of this 2019 Mustang version is the lightning-fast performance. All the system, shape, and component balanced the harmony of the car.

Besides, the aluminum hats are taken advantage of, helping overall slash weight in the rotors. Therefore, the driver can get the most exhilarating experience when owning a Shelby GT350. If you are a fan of extreme sports, this car will be best suitable!

Key features

Flat-plane crank
Brembo front and rear calipers
MagneRide Damping system

Pros

The responsiveness is lightning-quick
Braking system brings high performance
The V-8 engine produce the highest revving

Cons

Not suitable for those who do not like sports cars

Specifications

Price	Starting at $59,140
Displacement	5.2 L
Engine type	V- 8
Horsepower	526
Transmission	6-speed M/T

Best in Budget: Shelby Wide Body

https://www.shelby.com/Vehicles/Shelby-Wide-Body

You can think that the Shelby Wide Body is the innovation of the 2005 and current Mustang. As its name can say its feature, it supports the 13” wide wheels in the rear and 11” wide wheels in the front. This helps the performance of this Mustang better on the road.

Moreover, Shelby worked with Brembo to boost the power, suspension of the braking system. By upgrading these factors, the wide-body option becomes the ultimate Shelby Mustang.

Adding to this is the Penske coil-over suspension system, allowing drivers to control and adjust the quality. More specifically, you can change the independent compression, ride height, and rebound. Generally, it enables customization for any situation or track.

Key features

Side rocker panels and wings
Front fenders and vents
Rear quarter panels

Pros

The car body and wheels are wider
Brembo Brake upgrade includes rear calibers and 6 piston fronts
Penske coil-over suspension delivers better consumer for the S197 platform

Cons

Not many colors to choose from

Specifications

Price	Starting at $22,995
Displacement	5 L
Engine type	V – 8
Horsepower	750
Transmission	N/A

What Factors To Consider When Buying The Carroll Shelby Cars?

Usage

The first factor is what you will use the car for. For example, for those living in the countryside, you may need a car that can suffer from adverse weather. By contrast, those being in the city often use the car to go shopping or commute. So, they can think about the parking space.

Body Style

The second one to contemplate is what the car styles you like. If you have many children or your children want to bring their friends home, you should buy a car having extra space.

In case you have a dog, you can measure how much space is suitable for your furry friend in the boot. One thing to keep in mind is that you have to make sure your dog cannot jump up.

Speed

Some people are into speed will think carefully about this element. However, the faster the car is, the more fuel it spends. Therefore, if you go out once a month, you should purchase a slower car.

Conversely, as mentioned above, if you enjoy the acceleration or bragging to your friends, then come with a faster car. Understandably, some buyers love the unique feeling of a fast car. But remember that a fast car also requires higher costs, including insurance, maintenance, or pumps.

Fuel

Fuel is one of the most important to think about when buying a car. For city dwellers, you should choose the cheaper petrol instead of coming to diesel. You can save a lot of money on short journeys. Some people believe that diesel is the best economy, and it is valid to a certain extent.

In many situations, you need to cover huge mileages annually. So, it is possible for those who always drive on the motorway to consider using diesel.

Conclusion

Above is the list of top 15 Carroll Shelby cars for you to choose from quickly. If you are finding a car whose elements are significant and balanced, Shelby GT500SE Signature Edition will not disappoint you. In case you have a limited budget, the best option should be Shelby Wide Body.

All of the cars from Shelby are great in their own ways. To choose the best one, you should consider your needs and your using aim. Then, you will be satisfied with your choice. Hopefully, you find this article useful, and you will have the right option soon.