The Ford Shelby GT500KR is an iconic name in American muscle car history, representing the pinnacle of performance and exclusivity. The “KR” stands for “King of the Road,” a title that Shelby Mustangs have rightfully earned through decades of power and innovation. This designation signifies not just a car, but a statement of dominance on both the street and the track.
The story of the GT500KR began in 1968 when Ford and Shelby American sought to elevate the GT500. Aware of Chevrolet’s intention to name their new Corvette “King of the Road,” Carroll Shelby seized the opportunity. He quickly secured the trade dress for “King of the Road” and designated the upgraded GT500 as the GT500KR. This original King of the Road was powered by the formidable 428 Cobra Jet engine, instantly making it a highly desirable and collectible Mustang. Production numbers were limited, further enhancing its exclusivity and appeal to collectors.
Decades later, the King returned. In 2007, the GT500KR was revived, making its debut at the New York International Auto Show as a 2008 model. This second generation built upon the foundation of the standard GT500, adding significant performance enhancements. These upgrades included a boost of 40 horsepower, refined suspension for improved handling, and weight reduction through a state-of-the-art carbon fiber hood. Forged aluminum wheels and specialized tires were also developed specifically for this program, ensuring optimal performance. Production of the 2008 and 2009 GT500KR models took place at Shelby World Headquarters in Las Vegas.
Celebrating Shelby American’s 60th anniversary, the King of the Road was reborn once again for the 2020-2022 model years, based on the latest GT500 platform. This iteration pushed the boundaries of performance even further. Equipped with a larger supercharger, the anniversary edition GT500KR boasts over 900 horsepower. It features a vented dry carbon fiber hood, one-piece forged mono-block wheels, a performance Borla exhaust system, enhanced suspension, and a meticulously reworked interior. This latest GT500KR stands as a testament to Shelby’s enduring legacy of creating King of the Road Mustangs.
