Last month, Ford Authority spotted a pair of prototypes of what were believed to preview the forthcoming 2026 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 for the very first time. Those models were both equipped with a variety of interesting features, including the same two sets of wheels present on the S550 generation GT500, among others, adding fuel to that proverbial fire. However, while those prototypes were early mules based on the Dark Horse, Ford Authority has now spotted what could be the 2026 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 wearing its production bodywork for the first time.
This new 2026 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 prototype is wearing plenty of camo, but it has at least advanced past the mule stage and is now testing in its production bodywork. Up front, we get a good look at the prototype’s massive air intakes, lower chin spoiler, and wider front fenders, which are topped off with a hood that’s seemingly sporting some additional ventilation as well.
Moving down the side, we can see the effects of this unique front end treatment, along with a staggered set of Pirelli P Zero R tires measuring 305/30ZR20 up front and 315/30ZR20 in the rear, which are identical in terms of sizing compared to the S550 generation GT500’s Michelin Pilot Sport 4s rubber. Upon closer inspection, the sidewalls of these tires contains a small patch of raised lettering that reads “Prototype Use Only,” and they’re wrapped around a new wheel design.
Out back, we can spot a few aggressive styling updates compared to the regular S650, too – a new bumper design, diffuser, and unfinished quad exhaust tips, giving it a more muscular look. The previously-spotted mules had even more unique features, including “mule” stickers, appropriately enough, as well as a roll cage inside the cabin, and loads of extra cooling contained within the front fascia.
In terms of what might be lurking under the hood of this potential 2026 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 prototype, well, a leaked United Auto Workers memo from earlier this year (which was later verified by a news source) referred to the future addition of a niche line at the Dearborn Engine plant for production of a powerplant dubbed “Legend” specifically for the new GT500.
Comments
Too many Mustang variants to care anymore.
But not enough to keep WHINING about!
The GTD is the Ling of the Hill, and any other steed is just an also ran.
Please be great and not overpriced. I’ve been waiting to see this one.
John wants them not over priced above lol lol.
I just hope they make a replica front end so I can put it on my base model GT and be cool like everyone else.
Under the hood camo, at the corners I see what appear to be very symmetrical body curves…that looks a lot like the Super Snake air intake, forward on the hood. On the S197 GT500’s, that was my favorite look – aggressive and mean af. I’m now even more impatient…