In what was a sad occasion for pony car fans, the Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 bowed out of the lineup after the 2022 model year, and it hasn’t returned since. However, as Ford Authority previously reported, the range-topping model could be set to make a return, based on some recent rumors, coupled with a handful of mule and prototype sightings. Whether or not we’re looking at a preview of the 2026 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 or something entirely different remains to be seen, but the similarities between these S650-based prototypes and the S550 generation GT500 continue.
Just yesterday, Ford Authority spotted what appears to be a 2026 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 prototype wearing its production bodywork for the very first time, albeit, panels that are covered in camo. However, perhaps even more interesting is the fact that it’s rolling on at set of 20-inch wheels – the same size as its predecessor, albeit, in a different design. Those wheels are also wrapped in the same exact sized tires as the S550 GT500 – 305/30ZR20 up front and 315/30ZR20 in the rear – though they’re Pirelli P Zero R tires, not the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S rubber present on the previous model.
Aside from those features, this prototype also has some unique bodywork that sets it apart from any existing S650 Mustang model. Those features include massive air intakes up front, a lower chin spoiler, wider front fenders, some sort of ventilated hood, a new bumper design, diffuser, and quad exhaust tips, giving it a more muscular look.
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, which could be a revised version of the supercharged 5.2L V8 present in the S550 GT500, as well as the current F-150 Raptor R.
Comments
Not surprising given the fact that the sheet metal…aluminum…hasn’t changed. If you want to go wider…you have to the GTD route. What would be more amazing is if they could reduce the curb weight some…
What would be amazing if the keep the price out the 6 figure range. Fords Mustang is no longer the Bang for Bucks performance car. If they are going to keep these prices so high they need to work on interior Quality. No new car in a test drive should have rattles when you charging 70,000 plus for a Dark horse.