Car of the Month – December, 2023

Based on the world class Ford Shelby Mustang GT500, the GT500KR “King of the Road” is extremely limited; only 60 per model year (180 total) are available in the U.S. for the years 2021, 2022, and 2023.

This is only the third time in history that a version of the Shelby GT500 has carried the “King of the Road” name — the other King of the Roads were built in 1968 and 2008 (and we have them both). Our 2021 KR, example #14 of 60, includes a carbon fiber hood as well as a carbon fiber front splitter and rear diffuser. Performance-spec tires ride on one-piece 6061-T6 forged aluminum wheels (20 x 11.0 front and 20 x 11.5 rear). Also, part of the standard upgrade: Shelby rocker stripes and badges, a Shelby hood strut system, and leather seat covers.

The KR initials were first used in 1968 on an evolution of the Mustang GT500 powered by a 428 cubic inch V8 engine called the Cobra Jet. All the GT500KR’s visual cues are backed up by an upgraded 5.2-liter V-8 powertrain that offers more than 900 horsepower when using 93-octane fuel, thanks to a 3.8-liter supercharger with a high-volume intercooler and heat exchanger. The MagneRide suspension has been recalibrated, and there are Shelby adjustable front and rear springs, along with Ford Performance front and rear sway bars.