Snakes On The Loose: Shelby Does The S550
Choose Your Pony

No matter which way you look at it, the Ford Mustang is one of the most iconic vehicles of all time. It’s got a huge fanbase across the world and a heritage that spans back over five decades. It’s an automotive legend by any definition.

Larry_Chen_2016_Speedhunters_Shelby_Super_Snake_03

There are many reasons why people have been drawn to the Mustang over its history; the styling is a big one, as is its affordability and ample horsepower. But what I think best defines the Mustang is its incredible versatility as an enthusiast car.

Larry_Chen_2016_Speedhunters_Shelby_Super_Snake_46

From fun and simple daily drivers to weekend drag racers and road course specials, the Mustang is a car that can be anything to anyone. And that’s never been more true than right now.

Larry_Chen_2016_Speedhunters_Shelby_Super_Snake_33

With the introduction of the new S550 platform, the Mustang line-up has become even more diverse. There are V6s that would put ’60s-era big blocks to shame, a mod-friendly turbo four-cylinder, the GT’s 5.0 liter V8 and the exotic GT350 and GT350R models.

Larry_Chen_2016_Speedhunters_Shelby_Super_Snake_19

And it’s not just Ford itself that’s been giving enthusiasts so many choices with the new Mustang. Aftermarket companies are reworking the Mustang into their own unique creations, and they’re completely different from one another.

Doing Shelby Things
Larry_Chen_2016_Speedhunters_Shelby_Super_Snake_44

We recently had a chance to spend some time with a couple of these cars in and around Las Vegas – the home of an operation which needs no introduction: Shelby American.

Larry_Chen_2016_Speedhunters_Shelby_Super_Snake_22

Say hello to the latest iterations of the Shelby Super Snake and the Shelby Terlingua. Both of these products are based on the standard issue Mustang GT, which comes from the factory sporting Ford’s potent 5.0-liter Coyote V8.

Larry_Chen_2016_Speedhunters_Shelby_Super_Snake_37

But from there, the folks at Shelby get a little wild, fitting the Mustangs with various upgrades of the performance and cosmetic variety. And the result is two professionally modified machines with the fit and finish of brand new cars.

Larry_Chen_2016_Speedhunters_Shelby_Super_Snake_18

More power is a big part of the equation; the Super Snake comes standard with a Ford Performance supercharger kit, but if more power is desired customers can spec Whipple or Kenne Bell blower kits that are good for upwards of 750 horsepower.

Larry_Chen_2016_Speedhunters_Shelby_Super_Snake_08

Balance is important for Shelby, so plenty of thought has been given to the chassis and suspension to handle the additional power. The Super Snake also comes with strengthened half shafts, Ford Performance suspension and Wilwood 6-piston brakes up front.

Larry_Chen_2016_Speedhunters_Shelby_Super_Snake_11

The exterior also sees numerous upgrades, with just about all of the pieces being constructed in carbon fiber. That includes the scooped hood, front splitter, rocker panels, rear spoiler and rear diffuser.

Larry_Chen_2016_Speedhunters_Shelby_Super_Snake_06

The Super Snake also gets a set of 20-inch split five-spoke staggered wheels made by Weld Racing, and the tires are upgraded to Michelins.

Larry_Chen_2016_Speedhunters_Shelby_Super_Snake_10

Needless to say, the special model also receives a unique stripe package and plenty of Super Snake badging across the exterior.

Larry_Chen_2016_Speedhunters_Shelby_Super_Snake_12

It’s a pretty complete package straight out of the Shelby American box, but there are even more upgrades available for those looking to take their cars to the next level and beyond. Customers can spec their Super Snake with larger rear brakes, racing seats, differential and transmission coolers, and other parts designed for track use.

The Legend Of Terlingua
Larry_Chen_2016_Speedhunters_Shelby_Super_Snake_24

And that brings us to the Shelby Terlingua. This is a car that shares its roots with the Super Snake but is focused even more towards track racing.

Larry_Chen_2016_Speedhunters_Shelby_Super_Snake_40

It comes standard with a Whipple supercharger setup that’s finished in yellow to match the Terlingua’s signature body color. Total output: 750 horsepower.

Larry_Chen_2016_Speedhunters_Shelby_Super_Snake_26

It also receives adjustable suspension, caster and camber plates, and an even larger set of 6-piston front and 4-piston rear brakes.

Larry_Chen_2016_Speedhunters_Shelby_Super_Snake_29

The Terlingua is a homage the original Shelby Terlingua Trans-Am Mustang of the ’60s, and along with its unique badging there’s also a couple of classic meatballs on the doors.

Larry_Chen_2016_Speedhunters_Shelby_Super_Snake_36

The branding continues inside with a plaque honoring Carroll Shelby, Bill Neale and original Terlingua driver Jerry Titus.

Larry_Chen_2016_Speedhunters_Shelby_Super_Snake_23

There are optional upgrades for the Terlingua as well, including Sparco racing buckets, a 4-point roll bar and Penske shocks.

Larry_Chen_2016_Speedhunters_Shelby_Super_Snake_48

Production for both models is limited with 300 Super Snakes to be built per year and just 75 Terlinguas. Let’s hope that the collectors who buy them do more than just store them.

Larry_Chen_2016_Speedhunters_Shelby_Super_Snake_02

Those looking to enjoy a late model Mustang have no shortage of options, and the Shelby Super Snake and Terlingua are just two more examples of the modern car enthusiast being able to enjoy levels of streetable performance that would have been unimaginable when Carroll Shelby first started doing his thing in the ’60s.

It’s all progress, baby.

Mike Garrett
Instagram: japanifornia
mike@speedhunters.com

Photos by Larry Chen
Instagram: larry_chen_foto
larry@speedhunters.com

Cutting Room Floor
Larry_Chen_2016_Speedhunters_Shelby_Super_Snake_25
Larry_Chen_2016_Speedhunters_Shelby_Super_Snake_27
Larry_Chen_2016_Speedhunters_Shelby_Super_Snake_28
Larry_Chen_2016_Speedhunters_Shelby_Super_Snake_30
Larry_Chen_2016_Speedhunters_Shelby_Super_Snake_34
Larry_Chen_2016_Speedhunters_Shelby_Super_Snake_35
Larry_Chen_2016_Speedhunters_Shelby_Super_Snake_39
Larry_Chen_2016_Speedhunters_Shelby_Super_Snake_31
Larry_Chen_2016_Speedhunters_Shelby_Super_Snake_41
Larry_Chen_2016_Speedhunters_Shelby_Super_Snake_42
Larry_Chen_2016_Speedhunters_Shelby_Super_Snake_47
Larry_Chen_2016_Speedhunters_Shelby_Super_Snake_04
Larry_Chen_2016_Speedhunters_Shelby_Super_Snake_05
Larry_Chen_2016_Speedhunters_Shelby_Super_Snake_07
Larry_Chen_2016_Speedhunters_Shelby_Super_Snake_16
Larry_Chen_2016_Speedhunters_Shelby_Super_Snake_17
Larry_Chen_2016_Speedhunters_Shelby_Super_Snake_09
Larry_Chen_2016_Speedhunters_Shelby_Super_Snake_21
ADVERTISEMENT

Comments



Comments are closed.

35 comments

by Oldest
by Best by Newest by Oldest
2

What is that black part on the rear disc? An extra, single-piston, caliper?

3

CyborgGT Handbrake I believe

4

"Ford Performance suspension and Wilwood 6-piston brakes up front."
Photo clearly shows a Brembo brake caliper.

5

@Guest How can you tell? It just says Shelby, and even Shelby's website claims they are Wilwood.

6

Wow Larry, some truly superb photos. Great work!

7

Great pics really. 
Also this is the first mustang iteration that I thought was desirable. It really is versatile.

8

@Guest Super Snake has Wilwood's. Terlingua has Brembo's

9

reggidevarG CyborgGT Yep, separate Handbrake hydraulic circuit.

10
JefersonHerculano

Damn those shots of the back headlights are gorgeous......Outstanding.

11

But does it hit the crowd? :D

12

Love the deep dish wheels!

....on another noter: I don't get any text in presentation mode. Tried on different browsers and OS.

13

eejjkk reggidevarG CyborgGT I thought it was interesting that the rear calipers are mounted in different locations on the two models. I guess the Terlingua run aftermarket knuckles? Cool.

14

tenpennyjimmy I think, like eejkk pointed out, is due to the Terlingua running a Brembo kit while the SuperSnake runs Wilwoods.

15

alanbowers86 tenpennyjimmy Yeah but the Brembos are at about 5 o'clock on the circumference of the disk and the Wilwoods at like 2 o'clock => suggests different mounting lugs on the knuckle => suggests different knuckles maybe.

16
straight lines

Lucky there's no corners on that road lol

17

So where are the classic meatballs?

18

Super Snake Lover!!!

19

love the desert setting! is this red rock canyon?

20

butterballs Yes it was.

21

Whilst l cant even afford a basic 'stang l hope like hell that Shelby'Australian agents will arrange for a few of these to come down under for those here that have the money. Aussies love their V8s possibly more than the Yanks but now with GM and Ford closing shop and only doing imports in Oz fingers crossed we are looked after.

22

My best friend’s ex-wife makes Bucks75/hr on the laptop. She has been unemployed for eight months but last month her income with big fat bonus was over Bucks9000 just working on the laptop for a few hours. Read more on this site.....


+_+_+_+_+_+_+_+_+_+http://www.55earnbuzz.com

23

JefersonHerculano The european version of them are quite ugly, these look cool

24
Dimitry Mochkin

Go back to Car Throttle please.

25

Dimitry Mochkin Come on, don't be so salty :D

26

Dimitry Mochkin btw I actually like the current Mustang

27

with a very nice speed  sure the car could be a champion onehttp://dokterpoker.org

28
low_FairladyNZ

Man these look insane!! love em' Although manufacturers are starting to bring out front splitters stock. it's kinda weird when the things will hit you in the kneecap.  they should be near the ground.
amazing Photography work here btw.  :P

29
Dimitry Mochkin

JPRedhead Dimitry Mochkin Salt is love. Salt is life!

30

Until it hits you.lol

31

really really like to see the car that shiny new car fits like made ​​for walking trailsthe car was very good http://utamadomino.com/app/img/peraturan.html" rel="dofollow" target="_blank">http://utamadomino.com/app/img/peraturan.html and very fast http://utamadomino.com/app/img/jadwal.html" rel="dofollow" target="_blank">http://utamadomino.com/app/img/jadwal.html mix of colors http://utamadomino.com/app/img/promo.html" rel="dofollow" target="_blank">http://utamadomino.com/app/img/promo.html from which to http://utamadomino.com/app/img/panduan.html" rel="dofollow" target="_blank">http://utamadomino.com/app/img/panduan.html make want pobud http://utamadomino.com/ see hatnya http://dokterpoker.org/app/img/peraturan.html" rel="dofollow" target="_blank">http://dokterpoker.org/app/img/peraturan.html kecepatanya http://dokterpoker.org/app/img/jadwal.html" rel="dofollow" target="_blank">http://dokterpoker.org/app/img/jadwal.html was very nice ,http://dokterpoker.org/app/img/promo.html" rel="dofollow" target="_blank">http://dokterpoker.org/app/img/promo.html  suitable for a "http://dokterpoker.org/app/img/panduan.html" rel="dofollow" target="_blank">http://dokterpoker.org/app/img/panduan.html sharp bend http://dokterpoker.org or not sharp I guess motorists http://633cash.com/Games like this is http://633cash.com/Pengaturan" very skilled in the speed I hope I can membilinya someday will whether http://633cash.com/Daftar http://633cash.com/Promo there are http://633cash.com/Berita new cars http://633cash.com/Livescore are better I http://raksasapoker.com/app/img/peraturan.html" rel="dofollow" target="_blank">http://raksasapoker.com/app/img/peraturan.html 'll wait for it , with a stylish car classic http://raksasapoker.com/app/img/jadwal.html" rel="dofollow" target="_blank">http://raksasapoker.com/app/img/jadwal.html style I http://raksasapoker.com/app/img/promo.html" rel="dofollow" target="_blank">http://raksasapoker.com/app/img/promo.html also like http://raksasapoker.com/app/img/panduan.html" rel="dofollow" target="_blank">http://raksasapoker.com/app/img/panduan.html to see would be http://raksasapoker.com/ whether there is a http://yakuza4d.com/peraturan" rel="dofollow" target="_blank">http://yakuza4d.com/peraturan car that is http://yakuza4d.com as fast and forius http://yakuza4d.com/home like in the "http://yakuza4d.com/daftar movie , the car very http://yakuza4d.com/cara_main good car http://yakuza4d.com/hasil designed a way apparently hopefully http://yakuza4d.com/buku_mimpi there will be new cars more good and the price is quite pantastis then chances are I can membilinya the same as you have at this time

32
James_MustMotSprt

Dave Pickford got you sorted! https://www.facebook.com/mustangmotorsport/

33

like Ernest replied I can't believe that a stay at home mom able to profit $9340 in 1 month on the computer . check this---------->> http://tiny.tw/3poj

34

The Terlingua...I can almost see a JDM Spoon livery treatment...hahha...otherwise Terlingua here is sick!

35

The cars are great and all... But what car wouldn't look amazing with this light and photography skill at work! Outstanding job Larry. You kill it every shoot - but for some reason this one in particular makes me want to try each of these shots on my own vehicle. Thanks for the inspiration and incredibly well done.

OFFICIAL SPEEDHUNTERS SUPPLIERS